{"id":46,"date":"2016-12-08T14:56:32","date_gmt":"2016-12-08T14:56:32","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.dealerfireblog.com\/allstatepeterbilt\/?p=46"},"modified":"2016-12-08T14:56:32","modified_gmt":"2016-12-08T14:56:32","slug":"tips-keep-truck-running-cold-weather","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.allstatepeterbilt.com\/blog\/tips-keep-truck-running-cold-weather\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips to Keep Your Truck Running in Cold Weather"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Dana Dagen<\/em>
\nRegional Service Manager<\/em>
\nAllstate Peterbilt Group<\/em><\/p>\n

Being in the trucking industry, we are all more than aware of the headaches cold weather can create for drivers and maintenance managers alike. Most industry veterans are very familiar with the havoc that winter can cause for a truck\u2019s fundamental components. However, many of us are not as comfortable with the newer technology of the engine and aftertreatment systems that are ever evolving.
\nWith the complexity of today\u2019s emission components, extreme cold temperatures present unique challenges. These conditions may affect the aftertreatment system heat management and thus the efficiency, if proper maintenance is not completed. In addition to the maintenance schedule in the Operator\u2019s Manual, use the following tips to help insure that your engine and aftertreatment systems are at peak performance this winter:
\nOVERALL<\/strong>
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Complete all applicable OEM factory and engine campaigns on the vehicle.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Resolve and clear all fault codes.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Check all electrical connections and routing specific to the engine, after treatment and power of the vehicle\u2014do not disconnect sensors during this inspection.<\/p>\n

ENGINE<\/strong>
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inspect engine belts.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inspect integrity of exhaust pipes and joints\u2014replace any questionable clamps.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Perform EGR cooler flush if the vehicle requires more than 30% idle time. (EPA10 only)
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inspect air filters and replace if necessary. Also check the integrity of air intake hoses and pipes (includes air intake and EGR).
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Make sure engine block heater is working and cords are in good condition.Keep engine idle time to a minimum.<\/p>\n

AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM<\/strong>
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Remove and clean the DOC and DPF filter.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Replace the DEF dosing screen filter and in-line filter. Vehicles with 150,000 miles or more should have the DEF tank inspected for debris build-up. If debris is present, steam clean to remove debris at the bottom of the tank.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Clean the Hydrocarbon Fuel Doser\u2014complete every 125,000 miles. If you are getting close to the maintenance interval, perform this again before winter. (EPA10 only)
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Never shut off the truck when it is in the middle of the regeneration process.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Top off DEF fluid prior to starting the truck so there is warm DEF in the tank. Remember that DEF fluid will freeze so it should be stored in a warm place above 40 degrees.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0If not currently running with an approved winter front or insulated DEF tank blanket, we highly recommend doing so.
\nSome may find the following points repetitive, but it never hurts to remind our service technicians and drivers to be vigilant in checking all truck components. These fundamental tips are essential for anyone in our industry:<\/p>\n

FUEL SYSTEM<\/strong>
\nWhen the temperatures fall, fuel can become the first victim. If fuel\u2019s not flowing the rest of the truck isn\u2019t operating. Below are tips on how to prevent potential cold-weather fuel issues:
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Replace fuel filters. If you consistently see signs of black in the fuel\/water separator, put Killem in the fuel tanks to prevent algae build up.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Ensure that all trucks have spare fuel filters, fuel tank conditioner\/treatment and anti-gel products with them while traveling.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0In extreme cold, make sure you use additional fuel additives.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Top off fuel prior to having the truck sit for prolonged periods of time. Low fuel levels may lead to fuel freezing issues.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Confirm all fuel heaters are turned on \u2013 some heaters are manual.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Service and perform any preventative maintenance on auxiliary heaters before the weather turns cold.<\/p>\n

COOLING SYSTEM<\/strong>
\nWhile the cooling system is important all year long, it requires additional inspection during the cold-weather months. In the winter hoses can shrink and there is more potential for leaks. Make sure you are continuously preforming the following items:
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inspect and test coolant for proper temperature protection levels and determine if additives are needed.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inspect the integrity of all belts and hoses.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Check the cooling system for leaks.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Make sure all coolant is filled to proper levels.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Replace the coolant filter.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Service and perform any preventative maintenance on auxiliary power units before the weather turns cold.<\/p>\n

BRAKES\/AIR SYSTEM<\/strong>
\nThe air brake system requires specific preparation for cold-weather. Any excess water or oil in the air system can gel or freeze causing valves to stick. Ultimately, this could lead to failure of brake actuation or release. It is important to inspect and prepare all components of the air brake system before cold weather hits:
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Check for cracked or worn brake shoes.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Check for leaking wheel seals and contamination.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Inspect air compressor\u2013 be sure to change filters on air dryer and drain water from air tanks on truck and trailer.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Add airbrake antifreeze to the system during pre-winter months to help clear any water. Be sure not to use too much as it may dry out O-rings on certain valves.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Keep wrenches and airline antifreeze readily available in case you need to unfreeze the air system.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Stock the truck with a small propane torch for warming valves and a large hammer for freeing up frozen brakes.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Keep extra glad-hand seals in trucks to ensure quick trailer hook-up.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0At the end of the cold-weather season, be sure to check all of the brake components again and determine if they need to be replaced in the spring.<\/p>\n

BATTERIES<\/strong>
\nCold-weather can affect even the newest batteries, but older batteries are much more likely to fail in the harsh conditions of winter. General rule of thumb is to replace all batteries every three to five years. For newer batteries, be sure to follow these tips:
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Check battery charge status.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Tighten the battery connections and check for corrosion at each PM maintenance interval.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0If fuses are located in the battery box, inspect to ensure no corrosion build-up exists.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Plug trucks in when not in use rather than letting the truck idle.<\/p>\n

WINTER SURVIVAL KIT<\/strong>
\nAs a final reminder; be sure to share the list below with your drivers to safeguard against any unexpected winter conditions. The following items are essential to have in the truck during the cold-weather months:
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Spare fuel filters
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Small container of fuel
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Tire chains
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Tarp to lay on for installing chains
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Emergency flares
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Windshield De-Icer\/Scraper
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Tool Kit: Screwdrivers, Pliers, Box Knife, Wrenches, Duct tape, Spare bulbs and extra fuses
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Jumper Cables
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Multi-Purpose Tool
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0First Aid Kit
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Flashlights and Batteries
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Shovel
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Bottled Water
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Waterproof Gloves<\/p>\n

Operating your truck and your fleet in the winter can be a challenge. These are some suggested tips to follow to help keep you on the road.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Dana Dagen Regional Service Manager Allstate Peterbilt Group Being in the trucking industry, we are all more than aware of the headaches cold weather can create for drivers and maintenance managers alike. Most industry veterans are very familiar with the havoc that winter can cause for a truck\u2019s fundamental components. However, many of us […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":640,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[7,4,18,5],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n