It’s never too early to start the winterization process for your fleet. For those fleets in northern climates, winterizing your trailers is vital to your operation’s efficiency. Making trailer winterization a regular part of “business as usual” is a great way to protect your fleet long-term.
But when and where do you start? Here are some tips to help.
Tip #1: Drain Your Air Tanks Regularly
In the winter, one of the biggest problems trailers run into in the winter is moisture getting into the air system. Moisture accumulation in air tanks can freeze overnight, leading to air system malfunctions.
- Best Practice: Drain your air tanks daily to prevent buildup.
- Consider Automation: Install automatic air tank drains for added efficiency.
- Don’t Forget the Details: Drain every air tank, including the trailer and dolly tanks—not just the tractor.
Tip #2: Avoid Alcohol-based deicers
Using alcohol-based deicers may seem like a quick fix for frozen valves, but valve manufacturers caution that it can damage internal components, leading to leaks and sticking valves.
- Pro Tip: Instead of relying on deicers, focus on keeping moisture out of your air brake lines to avoid these issues altogether.
Tip #3: Use Fuel Additives for Refrigerated Units
If you operate refrigerated trailers in extreme cold, fuel additives are essential to keep the fuel flowing.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Only use fuel additives recommended by your unit manufacturer.
- Prevent Fuel Gelling: Proper additives ensure optimal performance in sub-zero temperatures.
Tip #4: Wash Your Trailers Frequently
De-icing chemicals used on roads can corrode trailer components, causing long-term damage if they’re not removed promptly.
- Focus on the Undercarriage: This area is especially vulnerable to salt and chemical buildup.
- Consult Resources: Refer to the Great Dane Maintenance Manual’s section on Appearance Maintenance and the TTMA Technical Bulletin 124 for cleaning techniques.
Tip #5: Check Tire Pressure and Tread Depth
Fluctuating winter temperatures can drastically affect tire pressure, leading to unsafe driving conditions.
- Don’t Rely Solely on TPMS: Even with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) or automatic tire inflation system (ATIS), manual checks are essential.
- Use Recommended Pressure: Ensure tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications. Both underinflation and overinflation can cause issues.
- Pro Tip: Rotate tires regularly and replace any with worn or damaged tread.
Learn more about maintaining proper tire pressure, tread depth, and routine tire care to keep your fleet safe and efficient. Click here for expert tips and guidelines.
Tip #6: Monitor Your Electrical System and Charge Your Batteries
Cold weather causes some types of batteries to be less efficient and makes it more difficult to recharge them from a discharged state without causing permanent damage.
- Stay Charged: Regularly check and maintain the charge on your lift gate and reefer unit batteries.
- Preventive Action: Consider using battery warmers or insulated covers in extremely cold conditions.
Moisture from snow, ice, or de-icing chemicals can also quickly corrode electrical connections, leading to shorts or system failures.
- Inspect Regularly: Check wiring, connectors, and lights for signs of corrosion.
- Prevent Issues: Protect exposed electrical connections with weatherproof covers.
- Stay Safe: Ensure ABS systems and lights are fully operational to avoid costly safety violations.
Tip #7: Be Aware of Ice, Snow, and Mud Accumulations
Accumulation of ice, snow, and mud on your trailer can cause serious issues, from obscuring the license plate and lights to damaging brake lines and cables—and it’s also important to remove snow from the top to prevent it from falling on unsuspecting traffic
- Stay On Top of Things: Regularly inspect and clear critical areas of your trailer.
- Newer Challenges: LED lamps don’t generate enough heat to melt snow buildup like older incandescent lamps, so manual clearing may be necessary.
Bonus Tips for Winter Readiness
- Driver Training: Equip drivers with the knowledge and tools to navigate winter conditions safely.
- Emergency Kits: Stock trailers with essentials like de-icing spray, snow chains, and first-aid supplies.
- Professional Inspections: Schedule a comprehensive winterization service to ensure your fleet is fully prepared.
Protect Your Fleet This Winter
Download our Winterization Checklist to get started.
Taking these proactive steps can help prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and keep your trailers at peak performance even during the harshest winter conditions. Winterizing isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns, it’s about keeping your business running efficiently and keeping your customers pleased.
Need Help? Contact Great Dane today to schedule a professional winterization service.
