Winter Tips to Follow
1. Blended fuel purchased or a diesel supplement is added to the fuel tanks as temperatures creep below 32 degrees.
2. Make sure the unit block heaters are plugged in when unit is not in use during the winter months.
3. Initial start up each day should follow this order – unplug block heater before start up, ignition in “on” position, if equipped with “wait for glow plugs” light, wait for light to go out, start unit, once running, unit should be brought up to temperature before operating.
4. If equipped with air brakes and air tank pull cords and/or drain orifices, you should purge tanks daily, make sure the air system airs to 120 psi, and listen for the air drier to purge the system clean of moisture.
5. Make sure all fluids are up, including window wash. Now is the time to check additional fluids, such as DEF, “Wet Kits” etc.
6. Make sure wiper blades are functional, all glass/mirrors cleaned, if equipped, heated mirrors functional, make sure headlights tail/turn lights are cleaned off of snow/ice/salt and operational
7. If you have driven in snow, ice, slosh, before stopping the vehicle at the end of their shift, lightly have the brakes applied to clean off and dry the shoes, drums, rotors and pads to prevent brakes pads freezing to drum/rotors while the unit is parked.
8. Make sure any steps and grab handles are clean, secure and dry to avoid slipping.
9. If you are operating in state that require chains to be on board, make sure the chains are the correct size, properly secured, clean, and not broken as to be easily applied when necessary.
10. Most important dress warm with self wicking clothing and have extra clothing in the event the unit may break/shut down to avoid hypothermia
FHWA’s website contains links to information on weather and road conditions and the availability of travel web sites and 511
Originally Posted on the Idealease Safety Bulletin