Step 1: Prepare an Emergency Kit
– Getting stranded in adverse weather conditions is far more likely in the winter
months. Make sure you have adequate survival supplies in your truck including:
– Extra blankets
– First aid kit
– Flashlight and extra batteries
– Canned food and bottled water
– Gloves, scarves, warm hats
– Snow boots
– Snow shovel
– Radio
– Extra coolant, washer fluid, engine oil
– Tire chains if running in the areas where required
Step 2: Check the Batteries
– Inspect the batteries to make sure they’re securely mounted
– Make sure all connections are tight and clean. It’s a good idea to check the
alternator and starter as well, making sure all connections are tight, and no wires
are damaged or frayed
– Make sure the alternator belt and/or the serpentine belt is at proper tension and
isn’t damaged, cut, or frayed
– There should be no loose or exposed wires
Step 3: Fueling
– Monitor the fuel condition in the top of the fuel filter
– Fuel color should be normal, clear, and free of contaminants
– Cloudy, discolored fuel could indicate pre-gelled fuel
– Fuel additives are available at the truck department at Artur Express, they should
be added at 15 degrees fahrenheit
– When parking the truck for a reset or a few days at home, make sure fuel tanks are
at least ¾ full
– When preparing to leave after the truck has been parked for a few days, if
temperatures are below 15 degrees, the APU can be started 8 hours prior to
returning to the road, to warm engine coolant and charge batteries
– It’s not necessary to use fuel additives above 15 degrees fahrenheit as today’s
engines return warm fuel to the tanks which aids in the prevention of fuel gelling
Step 4: Inspect the Cooling System
– Perform a comprehensive check of the cooling system. Anything that is worn,
cracked, or damaged will get worse as the temperature drops
– Inspect the radiator for cracks, to see that it’s properly mounted (no missing
mounting bolts)
– Check to see that all hose clamps are tight, and there are no bulges or damages to
the coolant hoses
– During the first period of cold weather, check to see that there is no coolant under
the truck which could indicate cold water leaks which occur as a result of metal
surfaces shrinking due to the cold weather
– Check inside the cabinet of the APU to be sure that coolant hoses aren’t leaking.
Colder weather will only make those leaks get worse.
Step 5: Check the Air Dryer/Air Tanks
– Pump the brake pedal until all air has left the reservoir, and the gauge shows “0”
– Start the truck and allow air to build until the air governor pops at around 120 psi
– This is to ensure air is building properly in the system
– Drain air from the air tanks on a daily basis just before shut-down for the day
– It’s not necessary to completely drain the air tanks completely
– If there is a slight moisture ejection after opening the valve, close valve after all
moisture has escaped
– Do not use air-brake antifreeze
Step 6: Prepare the Windshield
– Check windshield wipers and have them replaced if needed. This should be done
at a Penske location or through a Penske authorized service location
– Make sure that your windshield wiper reservoir is filled
– Keep an extra bottle of washer fluid in your truck in case you run out
– Penske has washer fluid available, but driver needs to furnish a one-gallon plastic
container
Step 7: Check the Tires
– Tires must be in good shape to navigate icy and snowy roads
– Inspect your tires thoroughly and make sure they’re inflated to the proper
pressure
– Carry a good-quality tire gauge
– Penske standards are 5/32 for removal of steer tires and 3/32 for drive tire removal
– Know which states require chains
– Make sure you have the correct number of chains, and inspect them for worn,
twisted, or damage links, and see the Artur Express truck department for
replacement
Step 8: Know Your Limits
– You were hired to drive, not to be a mechanic. Don’t compromise safety, put
others at risk, or cause serious damage to your truck by DIY repairs
– When needs arise, call Penske 24/7 or get an appointment at HQ and leave repairs
to the professionals
