Prepare for Winter with Mack’s Expert Advice
At Nuss Truck & Equipment, we know how important it is to keep your trucks safe, warm, and rolling during the harsh winter months. With ice, snow, and freezing temperatures on the horizon, now’s the time to prepare. When a truck isn’t properly winterized, it’s often the driver who suffers the most.
Jordan Hunsicker, Senior Trucks Product Training Manager for Mack Trucks, puts it plainly:
“It’s freezing cold, you’re 10-20 hours from the closest place you know, and your truck won’t start. And then you’re up a creek without a paddle. That’s the risk when you don’t prepare for winter.”
To keep yourself—and your truck—on the road this winter, follow these 9 essential winterization tips:
- Test Your Batteries
Cold weather is hard on batteries. Check their charge and expiration date. If your truck struggles to start in the summer, it’ll only get worse in the winter. - Check Coolant Levels
Inspect for leaks and ensure your antifreeze levels are sufficient to keep your engine running smoothly in low temperatures. - Defrost Your Windshield
If your truck has a heated windshield, verify the heating element works. Refill your washer reservoir with methanol-based fluid to keep it from freezing, and inspect your wiper blades for wear. - Use the Right Engine Oil
For extremely cold climates, consider lighter oils like 5W-30 or 5W-40 to prevent engine damage caused by thickened oil during cold starts. - Keep Spare Filters on Hand
When diesel fuel dips below 14°F, paraffin wax can clog fuel filters. Spare filters can save you from a breakdown. - Winterize Your Tires
Inspect your tire tread and replace if necessary. Check your tire chains and replace any that are rusty or broken. - Inspect the Radiator
The winter front protects your radiator and keeps your engine warm. Check for rips or tears and replace if needed. - Prepare an Emergency Kit
Include jumper cables, an ice scraper, bottled water, flares, and reflective triangles. Consider adding a bucket of sand for extra traction in icy situations. - Check Key Features
Ensure your heater, defroster, air dryer, and engine block or oil pan heater are all working. A little effort now can save you big headaches later.
Winter driving is tough, but with these tips from Mack Trucks, you can prepare for the worst and ensure the best. If you have questions or need assistance with winterizing your truck, the team at Nuss Truck & Equipment is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment!
