5 Tips to Make Sure Your Heavy-Duty Engine is Ready for Winter START

Winter's biting cold can wreak havoc on heavy-duty diesel engines if they aren’t prepared for the challenge. Follow these five practical tips to keep your truck running smoothly and avoid costly breakdowns during the season's worst.

1. Check and Replace Engine Coolant

The engine coolant system is your engine's first defense against freezing temperatures. Diesel engines rely on a mix of antifreeze and water to regulate heat. Over time, coolant can degrade, losing its effectiveness.

• Action Plan: Test the coolant's freeze point using a hydrometer. If it’s not up to par, replace it with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and deionized water unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise.
• Pro Tip: Ensure your radiator and coolant hoses are free of leaks or cracks before the frost sets in. A failed system can lead to engine block cracking in severe cold.

2. Inspect and Service Glow Plugs

When temperatures drop, glow plugs become essential for cold starts. They heat the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, making ignition possible in freezing conditions.

• Action Plan: Test each glow plug with a multimeter to ensure proper resistance levels. Replace any faulty plugs.
• Pro Tip: If your engine cranks slower than usual, the problem may lie with the glow plugs—or worse, your battery.

3. Monitor Your Fuel System

Diesel fuel can gel in freezing temperatures, causing clogs and no-start situations. Fuel additives can prevent this by lowering the fuel's pour point.

• Action Plan: Use winter-grade diesel fuel or add anti-gel additives to your tank. Change the fuel filter to prevent clogging from trapped debris.
• Pro Tip: Keep your fuel tank at least half full to reduce condensation and prevent water from freezing in the fuel lines.

4. Inspect and Maintain the Battery

Cold weather can sap a battery's power, reducing its cranking ability. A weak battery will struggle to start a diesel engine in low temperatures.

• Action Plan: Use a battery load tester to check for adequate voltage and cranking amps. Clean the terminals to ensure a solid connection. Replace the battery if it shows signs of wear.
• Pro Tip: Install an engine block heater for additional startup assistance in subzero temperatures.

5. Protect the Air System

Water in the air compressor lines can freeze and cause braking system malfunctions—a critical safety concern.

• Action Plan: Drain air tanks daily during winter to remove accumulated moisture. Confirm that the air dryer is functioning correctly to keep lines free of condensation.
• Pro Tip: Consider using a system-compatible air-line antifreeze in extreme climates to prevent freezing.

Conclusion

Winter readiness is all about preparation. From maintaining the coolant system and fuel integrity to ensuring strong battery performance and operational air systems, a little effort goes a long  way. You’ll keep your heavy-duty diesel engine humming through the harshest conditions by tackling these tasks before winter hits.

If you’re unsure about these steps or need professional help with you engine, don’t hesitate to schedule a winter readiness check with your trusted diesel repair shop!