The time to head-off cold weather problems is now, before winter weather hits. Check these items to prepare for winter's worst:

Engine System

• Select the proper oil viscosity for the climate you'll be in. For most driving, 15W-40 will be adequate. Operating in the Northern tier, Canada and Alaska, consider 10W-30 or even 10W-20.
• Check thermostat operation.
• Make sure electric block heaters operate properly, and that you have a heavy-duty extension cord. If you have an ether-based starting aid, make sure it's filled and operating properly.
• Make sure drive belts and pulleys are in good condition to drive the alternator.
• Check operation of fuel-fired heaters and/or generators or APUs. o Change fuel filters.
• Check air hoses and fittings to the fan clutch.

Fuel System

• Be sure tanks are free of water and microbial sludge. Drain or siphon any free water from tanks and check them regularly.
• Use a water controlling, anti-gel fuel conditioner. If you have a fuel heater that uses coolant, check the connections and hoses. Open the shut-off valve. Make sure your fuel-water separator is functioning. Drain water often.

Cooling System

• Anti-freeze should be at least 50 percent but no more than 60 percent glycol. If it's organic acid Extended Life Coolant, such as Texaco, Shell, Caterpillar or Detroit Diesel, do not mix it with regular coolant. If using conventional coolant, make sure SCAs test within the proper range. Keep a few gallons of your type of premixed coolant in your cab. Mix it with SCAs for conventional coolant or without SCAs for ELC.
• Change the coolant filter.
• Clean any debris, insects, etc. from the radiator.
• If you use a winterfront to restrict airflow to the radiator, be sure its openings allow adequate airflow all across the radiator. With today's cross flow systems, slots should be vertical, extending the full height of the radiator.
• Check that pressure caps are within specification.
• Check that hoses and clamps are in good condition.

Electrical and Starting System

• Make sure batteries are fully charged, and the charging system produces full voltage and current.
• Check battery terminals for corrosion. Clean and cover with a dielectric grease like Truck-Lite NYK to keep them corrosion-free. Do the same with wiring and electrical connectors to keep them clean.

Air System

• Make sure the air compressor is operating properly.
• Check that all connections and hoses are free of leaks. Check hoses for chafing.
• Be sure there is no water or oil in the air tanks, and that drain valves operate freely.
• Check electrical connections to drain valve heaters. Be sure they heat. Air dryers should operate properly, ejecting moisture when the compressor unloads.
• Change the desiccant cartridge according to the manufacturer's directions.

Cab Systems

• Clean dirt and debris from the heater cores.
• Check that fans operate properly.
• Clean out defroster ductwork so air flows freely.
• Check mirror wiring and connectors and use dielectric grease. Mirror heaters should operate properly. Replace grids if they are burned out.
• Change wiper blades. They should be fresh and streak free. Use rubber-booted winter blades if available in your size.
• Check all weather stripping. If it is loose or damaged, replace it.
• Make sure windshields are free of cracks or pitting.
• Make sure ductwork is undamaged and that air flows freely.
• Make sure the thermostat works.

Lighting Systems

• Check that wiring connections are tight and corrosion-free.
• Be sure all lamps operate.
• Aim headlights and fog lamps.

Wheels and Tires

• Use the proper tread pattern for expected driving conditions. If you expect heavy snows, consider block patterns on drive wheels and more open, multi-rib steer tires.
• Be sure wheels are properly torqued. After a day or two, re-torque them to specification.
• Check tire inflation. If any tires are low, find out why and correct the situation.
• Check valve assemblies and tire mounting.
• Inspect and replace chains.

Driver's Survival Kit

• Keep extra warm clothing, boots, dry socks and gloves in your cab.
• Have an extra flashlight, a battery operated radio and a battery powered CB radio, with extra batteries for each. If possible, carry high-energy food and drink.
• Carry a thin reflectorized Mylar camping blanket.
• Have a charged spare battery for your cell phone.