by Tom Kyrk (aka - Captain Kyrk)

It is that time of year again when despite the warm weather outside we could find ourselves in a snow storm tomorrow. This is one of the few occupations where we can be in the 80's one day and driving in a blizzard the next. Having your truck prepared for winter can make the difference between being comfortable while sitting out the storm or miserable. A few common-sense precautions can make driving in bad weather a bit safer.

One of the most important winter preparedness tips is to know the weather and road conditions for you. You can do this with Apps such as WeatherBug or Weather Underground, and websites such as safetravelusa.com that will provide state road reports. A CB radio can be a useful tool to check on road conditions up ahead and be aware of changing conditions and accidents. The best advice, if you know the roads are going to get nasty stop early to make sure you can get a parking spot at a safe and comfortable location.

Here are a few things you can do to your truck in advance to get ready for the winter.

1. Install fresh wiper blades. I prefer blades that have the rubberized boot to help prevent snow and ice buildup. I have also found the beam style blades to work the best for me. Pro-tip: DON’T BUY CHEAP BLADES!!! Nothing is worse than having to replace a blade that fell apart in bad weather.
    
2. Use MotorKote®. Put some MotorKote® onto a cloth and rub over your door seals and anything that opens or closes to help prevent them from freezing shut in the winter. Be sure to let air dry before closing. You can also put a few drops in locks to help prevent freezing. Coat your wiper blades with a thin coat and let dry for a few hours then wipe off excess. This will help prevent snow and ice from sticking to the blades.
    
3. Carry some WD-40 or similar spray lubricant. This can help defrost frozen locks. I have seen several drivers who could not get their padlocks off due to ice buildup. A few shots of WD-40 and they were able to remove the lock easily.
    
4. Lubricate your 5th wheel. Spraying Lithium Grease or Silicone can be a great way to lubricate your 5th
   wheel when it is too cold for traditional 5th wheel grease to spread easily.
    
5. Always have spare fluids on hand.  Check all your fluids and tire pressure before heading out on a trip. It is always a good idea to carry spare fluids and an air hose. Elevation and temperature changes can affect fluid levels and air pressures. Carrying spares and an air hose can mean the difference between getting back on the road and beating a storm or getting stuck in it waiting for road service.
    
6. Prevent your fuel from freezing. When the temperatures drop below freezing it is a good idea to treat your fuel to prevent gelling or ice build-up in filters and fuel lines. Products such as those found in the FPPF® line, Power Service®, or Howes® are great options to prevent being shut down road side due to gelling or water in your fuel.
    
7. Make an Emergency Kit. Use a duffle bag or backpack (BlackCanyon Outfitters has some good options) and make an emergency kit with items such as a flashlight, battery bank, charging cords, snacks, food, bottles of water, medicine, and important documents.

No matter how prepared you try to be it seems like without fail you will be caught someplace without something that you want or need. Many of the items can be found at travel centers that will bail you out in a pinch.

• Work or winter gloves - Most travel centers have a good selection of them from BlackCanyon Outfitters or Wild Gear
• Coats or jackets -  Many travel centers carry them this time of year and often at competitive prices to many major stores. BlackCanyon Outfitters and Wild Gear make some great options.
• A way to heat water and food on the truck such as the RoadPro 12-Volt Lunch Box Stove
• Oil, coolants, spray Lithium grease or silicone and additives from companies like Lucas®, FPPF®, Power Service® or Howes®
• Zip ties
• Spare headlights
• Wiper blades
• Duct tape
• WD-40 or MotorKote® spray
• Snacks, non-perishable food, gallons of water
• Flashlight
• Battery bank for charging cellphones such as the Tough Tested solar charger
• Jumper cables
• Blanket(s)

Whether this is your first winter on the road or you’re a seasoned winter driver, it never hurts to listen to the conversations at the truck stops and see what other drivers are carrying in their trucks. You may get a few good ideas or learn something new. I also suggest carrying more food and water than you think you may need. If you get stranded on the road you may have the opportunity to help other stranded travelers so having extras can be a good thing.

Tom Kyrk, a member of the RoadPro Pro Council, is a writer and blogger on the trucking industry. He is the founder of Road Tested Living and his blog often focuses on cooking and healthy on-the-go living. Tom has been a professional truck driver for nearly a decade. Follow Tom on his Facebook page or visit his website www.roadtestedliving.com.  #roadtestedliving