Posted: 03/06/2023
Winter weather can be tough on heavy-duty trucks, causing various parts to fail or break down. To ensure your truck is running smoothly and safely during the winter months, it is important to keep these five critical truck parts in good condition. Arnold Motor Supply provided a comprehensive guide to these essential truck parts, explaining what they are, why they are important, and how to maintain them to keep your truck running smoothly all winter long.
Starters and alternators play a critical role in starting and maintaining your truck's engine. A faulty starter or alternator can lead to battery drain and leave you stranded on the side of the road in the middle of winter.
Starters must have clean and tight electrical connections, and the heavy starter cable between the battery and the starter must be in good condition. Connections along the way should also be clean and tight. The starter relies on the engine as a grounding point.
When purchasing a heavy-duty alternator, it is recommended to purchase one with more than sufficient amperage. A heavy-duty alternator should produce a minimum of 63% of the unit's rated maximum output even at low speeds.
Neglecting maintenance of starters and alternators during the winter can lead to unscheduled downtime and roadside repairs, so it's important to ensure that they are functioning properly. The harsh winter conditions can take a toll on the components of the electrical system, so it's crucial to keep them well-maintained to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Maintaining the battery of a heavy truck during the winter is important for several reasons. The truck battery is responsible for powering the starting system and supplying energy to all electrical components. If the battery is not operating correctly, it can result in cab light outages or complete system failure. The cold weather can also make it more difficult for the battery to turn over the truck, which can take a toll on the battery if it is not fully charged.
To maintain a healthy battery during the winter, proper recharging procedures should be followed. Keeping the battery charged and maintained helps keep the truck on the road and working. It is also important to choose the right battery for your truck, and costs can range depending on the battery selected. When selecting a battery, it is recommended to begin by referring to the original equipment specification printed on the battery label.
In conclusion, maintaining the battery of a heavy truck during the winter is essential for the proper functioning of the truck and to avoid any potential problems. Proper recharging procedures and choosing the right battery can help ensure that the truck remains on the road and working efficiently.
Windshield wipers are an often overlooked but critical component of your truck, especially in winter weather. Poor visibility due to dirty or worn-out wipers can be dangerous and increase the risk of accidents. Make sure to replace your windshield wipers every 6-12 months, and choose blades that are easy to install and fit the specific size of your heavy-duty vehicle.
To maintain windshield wipers during the winter, it is recommended to check them regularly for wear and tear and replace them if necessary. In addition, you can use wiper fluid specifically designed for winter weather to prevent freezing and maintain visibility. Before a big winter storm, you can also prop up your windshield wipers to prevent ice from forming and making them harder to use.
Heavy duty trucks often encounter electrical system issues, ranging from faulty relays and switches to corrosion on electrical connectors, which can require expensive maintenance. Without proper monitoring and maintenance, the problems can reach a level of complexity that leads to major component failure.
Mobility and performance can be heavily compromised if safety features such as lighting and braking systems are affected due to these electrical system breakdowns. Moreover, the long-term longevity of the vehicles depends on routine inspections and examinations in order to identify and repair any developing issues with a heavy duty truck’s electrical systems.
Brakes are an essential safety feature of any vehicle, but they are especially critical during winter driving. Winter weather conditions can reduce braking performance, so it is essential to keep your brakes in good condition and replace any worn or damaged parts promptly. Regular brake inspections and maintenance can help ensure your brakes are working properly and keep you and other drivers safe on the road.
In conclusion, these five essential truck parts are critical to maintaining the performance, safety, and reliability of your heavy-duty truck during the winter months. Invest in high-quality parts, perform regular maintenance, and address any issues promptly to keep your truck running smoothly and safely all winter long.
