A few preventive tips can decrease the number of service calls on your units and help control costs during the winter months. During cold weather, PLM Fleet recommends these helpful hints to keep your units running smoothly:

• Complete a driver pre-trip and post-trip inspection
• Use “Winter Blend” diesel fuel. Ask your fuel provider for this blend that allows your unit to ignite more easily in cold temperatures. If you are unsure if you are using treated fuel, add anti-gel fuel treatments to your tank to prevent fuel from gelling or work with your fuel provider.
• Place all units into continuous run mode and start the unit, loaded or empty, to keep batteries fully charged and to prevent coolant from freezing.
• Check oil, water, and fuel levels daily - keep levels close to full to create less condensation.
• Drain air tanks daily on the tractor and trailer to help keep the system dry and consider using “airline antifreeze.”
• Be aware of slippery surfaces such as handles, steps, walk ramps, and liftgate platforms - Stay Safe.
• Clear stop / tail / turn lights for visibility. LED lights do not produce heat and will not melt ice and snow.
• Keep snow chains on hand.