How to Winterize Your Tow Truck

Autumn may have just officially begun, but it’s time to consider preparing your tow trucks and equipment for cold, winter weather.  Whether your operations are frequently buried in snow or exposed to freezing temperatures and icy conditions, protecting your mechanical equipment is critical for your business to survive during the winter. Here are a few tips on how to winterize your tow truck

1. Perform a fall tune-up on your trucks.  Take advantage of dry weather conditions to look under the hoods of your fleet.  Use dealer recommendations to change the oil to the appropriate viscosity for your specific weather conditions.  Ensure fluid levels are filled appropriately–too much or too little can lead to problems.  Now’s a good time to flush your anti-freeze system and add a formula containing a cold weather additive.  Check all the rubber components like belts and hoses for cracks or bulges and replace them as necessary.
2. Check the tires.  If you switch to snow tires during the winter months, now’s the time to bring them out of storage and install them on your fleet.  Check the air pressure–most tires need to be refilled once the cooler temperatures set in.  Ensure the tire chains for all the trucks are ready to go in the cabs.
3. Store your trucks in a building or covered area.  Even a few extra degrees of warmth when weather temperatures plunge will make it easier to start up the truck in the morning.
4. Use the right fuel for cold weather.  If your local temperature dips below 15F consistently during the night, it’s usually a good idea to use #1 diesel blend fuel.  While it’s less efficient than #2, it won’t gel up.  Keep your fuel tank full overnight.
5. Test your battery.  Regular battery tests should be part of your preventative maintenance schedule, but your battery must be in good shape before heading into the colder months.  Clean the terminals regularly to ensure connections are secure.
6. Check the heater.  Test the heat/AC unit while running a full load to ensure it is working correctly.

How to Winterize Your Tow Truck: Keep in mind that it may take longer than usual to receive replacement parts this year.  Many companies are experiencing transportation delays or material shortages, so plan ahead for procuring spare parts to get your trucks through the winter months.

Is it time to upgrade your towing equipment?

Collins Manufacturing provides towing companies with high-quality equipment that can retrieve vehicles safely from even the most difficult situations.  Towing operators can easily carry and install our Hi-Speed^Ⓡ Dolly to handle vehicles up to 4,280 pounds.  Our safety ratchet system prevents the operator and the vehicle from injuries that can happen from sudden shifts and drops.

Our Hi-Speed^Ⓡ  Dolly is also the widest dolly on the market, featuring a usable width of 84 inches.  The design includes a true positive camber, keeping the tow vehicle safe and making the job easier to maneuver.

 

Your entire team will appreciate the difference Collins equipment makes.  Contact us today to learn more.