Heavy Truck & Equipment Winter Preparation

Preparing Your Semi Truck or Heavy Equipment For Winter

Living in and around Alberta and Calgary, Canada, is great for many reasons, but one of the facts of life here is that winters can be harsh. With temperatures that range from bitterly cold and icy to above-zero and slushy, your vehicle has to put up with some intense environments between October and March every year.

While most people take some preventative action for winter, like installing winter tires, there are some often-overlooked steps you can take across all your vehicle’s systems to ensure that everything is running in top shape – before the really cold weather hits.

​Here’s what we recommend for heavy trucks and heavy equipment winter prep at West Tech Mobile:
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1) Check Your Air System

Living in Alberta, Canada, where winters can be unforgiving, ensuring your semi-truck or heavy equipment's air system is in peak condition is crucial.

The air system is vital for numerous functions in your truck, and any contamination can lead to significant issues, especially in cold and damp conditions. That's why at West Tech Mobile, we emphasize the importance of a clean, well-maintained air system.

Regular Checks & Cleaning

Here's how you can ensure your air compressor and system remain free from contaminants:

• Inspect the Air Compressor: Regularly check the air compressor for signs of wear, leaks, or damage. A well-functioning compressor is key to maintaining system pressure and performance.
• Utilize High-Quality Air Dryers: Implement air dryers of superior quality to effectively remove moisture and dirt from the incoming air. This step is crucial for preventing freeze-ups and maintaining system integrity during the cold months.
• Clean Filters Regularly: Dirty filters can drastically reduce the efficiency and longevity of your air system. Check and clean or replace filters regularly to ensure optimal air quality.
• Monitor Moisture Levels: Winter air can be damp. Keep an eye on moisture levels within the system to prevent ice formation in lines and valves, which can cause blockages and damage.
• Check for Contaminants: Routinely inspect the system for any signs of contamination. Early detection and removal of contaminants like oil, dirt, or moisture can prevent larger issues down the line.
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2) Keep an Eye on Coolant

The coolant in your truck is more than just a fluid; it's a critical defender against the harsh winter temperatures. Proper coolant levels and balance are essential to protect your engine and keep it running smoothly, even in the coldest months. Here's why coolant for your heavy truck or equipment is vital and how you can maintain it:

Why Coolant Matters:

Coolant, or antifreeze, is responsible for regulating your engine's temperature. It prevents freezing in cold temperatures and overheating in extreme conditions. However, its effectiveness depends on its chemical balance and concentration. Incorrect coolant mixture or old, degraded coolant can lead to cavitation and severe internal engine damage.

Maintaining Your Coolant

• Regular Checks: Regularly check your coolant levels and top up as necessary. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating and increased wear on the engine.
• Test Freeze Points: Use a hydrometer or refractometer to check the freezing point of your coolant. This ensures it won't turn into ice, which can cause blockages and damage your engine.
• Monitor Chemical Balance: Test the chemical balance of your coolant to ensure it falls within the manufacturer's specifications. Imbalances can lead to corrosion, scale build-up, and reduced effectiveness.
• Inspect for Contamination: Look for signs of oil or other contaminants in the coolant, which can indicate larger issues like a leaking head gasket.
• Professional Assessment: Have your coolant system professionally inspected at West Tech Mobile, especially before the winter season. We'll help ensure everything is in top shape and advise on any necessary adjustments or replacements.
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3) How Are Your Batteries?

Batteries are the heart of your truck's electrical system, powering everything from the ignition to the lights and heating. In winter, the chemical reactions in the battery slow down, diminishing its capacity and making it harder to start your engine.  Sometimes even a new heavy truck battery might be dead!

At the same time, the energy demand from heaters, wipers, and lights increases. Ensuring your battery is in top condition is crucial to avoid being stranded in the cold.

Key Steps to Maintain Battery Health

• Load Testing: We perform a thorough load test to assess your battery's ability to hold a charge and deliver power on demand. This helps predict potential failures before they happen.
• Charging System Check: A healthy charging system ensures your battery is recharged correctly while driving. We'll inspect the alternator and associated components to confirm everything is working.
• Connection Inspection: Loose or corroded connections can lead to power losses and unreliable starts. We'll clean and secure all connections to ensure maximum efficiency.
• Battery Terminals: We check the battery terminals for corrosion or damage, which can prevent your truck from starting. Regular cleaning and maintenance of terminals can prevent issues.
• Insulation and Protection: Batteries are more vulnerable to cold without proper insulation. We'll check your battery's insulation and recommend solutions to keep it warm and functional.
• Regular Maintenance: Batteries have a limited lifespan. Regular checks and maintenance can extend it as much as possible but be prepared to replace your battery as it nears the end of its service life.
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4) Have You Considered Block Heaters?

When your truck is exposed to extreme cold, the oil thickens, and the battery works harder, making it difficult to start the engine. There are a few different ways to help ensure your truck's engine starts even on a cold day.  A block heater warms the engine and fluids, ensuring smoother starts, reduced wear on the engine during ignition, and immediate heat for your comfort.

Maximizing the Benefits of Block Heaters

• Inspection and Testing: Inspect and test your block heater for any signs of wear or damage. You don’t want to be caught in a cold snap with a malfunctioning block heater.
• Efficiency Check: Assess your block heater's efficiency to ensure it optimizes your engine. An efficient heater means quicker warm-ups and less energy consumption.
• Webasto Coolant Heaters: We are big fans of Webasto engine coolant heaters at WTM. These innovative devices are a plug-free alternative to conventional block heaters, offering several benefits:
  • They can warm your engine well before you start it, reducing the strain on your battery and starter.
  • By reducing the need for idling to warm up the engine, they decrease fuel consumption and emissions.
  • Consistent, gentle warming extends the overall life of your engine by preventing cold start wear and tear.
• Installation and Maintenance: If you don't already have a block heater or are looking to upgrade, we provide expert installation and advice on maintaining your system for peak performance.
• Customization: We'll help you choose the right type of heater for your specific model and usage needs, ensuring you get the best protection against the cold.
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5) Don't Forget The Other Important Checks!

How are your wiper blades and washer fluid? You’ll want those in good condition before the slush of winter coats your windshield on a busy highway.

Or how about your engine oil? At West Tech Mobile, we have bulk 5W40 synthetic oil at a very reasonable cost – it will keep things working smoothly and extend your engine’s longevity.

Keeping on top of these things will make your winter driving experience much easier and will ensure that your truck or heavy-duty equipment starts when you need it to and stays running. Remember – a little preparation now will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
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What Are Some Trends To Watch For in 2024?

Winter offers unique opportunities for fleet manufacturers to improve their design and functionality. Some trends to watch for include:

Electrification of Fleets

The trucking industry has a growing trend toward electric vehicles (EVs), including heavy-duty trucks. While there are challenges regarding range and charging infrastructure, the move towards electrification is driven by the desire to reduce emissions and operational costs.

Watch for advancements in battery technology and cold-weather performance enhancements specific to EVs.

Advanced Telematics and Predictive Maintenance

Telematics systems are becoming more sophisticated, offering comprehensive data collection and analysis. This technology enables predictive maintenance, which anticipates potential failures and suggests interventions.

In the future, expect these systems to become more integrated with the vehicle's operational systems, providing even more precise diagnostics and prognostics.

Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Vehicles

Automation technology is advancing rapidly. While fully autonomous trucks might not be widespread yet, semi-autonomous features are becoming more common.

These include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance systems, which can significantly enhance safety in winter driving conditions.

Don't Miss Your Winter Check-Up in Calgary with West Tech Mobile

It’s a good idea to inspect your vehicle to ensure it’s winter-ready. Book in with West Tech Mobile here in Calgary, Alberta, for a quarterly inspection so you avoid any costly surprises over the coming months.

Not only will our team of expert technicians ensure that your vehicle is equipped to handle winter conditions, but they can also provide recommendations for any additional maintenance or repairs needed to help ensure you don't need our roadside heavy truck repair near Calgary.

Don’t risk it this winter. With unpredictable weather and hazardous road conditions, it’s important to stay ahead of any potential issues with your vehicle. Schedule your winter check-up now and have peace of mind while driving in the Alberta winter.