Truck drivers, you still have time to get your heavy vehicles prepared for the coldest season of the year. There a lot to parts to be checked but if you start now a meticulous inspection of your truck you will ready to deal with the challenges in the road provoked by the winter. That´s why we prepare the following checklists:

1- Verify the Air System:
a) Drain air tanks daily, especially the wet tank;
b) Remove restrictions and kinks from system plumbing;
c) Replace air hoses that look dry or old.

2- Check Starting and Charging Components:
a) Perform load tests of the batteries and substitute the ones that aren´t working anymore;
b) Test starter output and alternators;
c) Visually check cable runs and wiring connections;
d) Keep the battery terminal ports clean
e) Apply protectant at the battery terminal ports;
f) Verify the trailer pigtail

3- Inspect the fuel tanks:
a) Verify if there is water at the fuel tanks;
b) Be prepared to replace fuel filters

4- Inspect the engine:
a) Use engine coolant to avoid rust inhibitors and also freeze points;
b) Perform test of pressure to detect if there are any leaks in the system;
c) Check the hoses to know their operating condition;
d) Adjust all hose clamps

5- Check that the parts inside the cab are working perfectly:
a) Mirrors heaters;
b) Doors;
c) Heater-defroster fan;
d) Window seals to prevent air leaks;
e) Put antifreeze lube spray at the locks of the doors
f) Inspect the exhaust system looking for under-cab leaks

6- Inspect all your tires:
a) Regularly verify the air pressure of your tires before start driving during the winter;
b) Inspect tires wear and condition but it´s advisable to buy new tires at the beginning of the winter, since new tires can give more traction than old tires;
c) Check the tire chains, should be avoided if there are signs of damage, wear and corrosion at these parts.
d) Don´t forget the maintenance of the fifth-wheel locking mechanism, keep it clean without dirty and old grease, which during colder seasons makes difficult to attach or release the wheel.

7- Inspect Chassis and the Cab:
a) Check your chassis to make sure it is not broken.
d) Check that in your cabin you have everything you need to be on the road.

Happy New Year´s Eve to everyone, we wish a prosperous New Year.