Pay special attention to these points when driving in winter

Truck drivers certainly don't want to encounter extreme weather with sharp temperature drops, as this is not only a major test for drivers but also a severe test for vehicles, because a slight mishap can bring the vehicle to a standstill. Here are some winter driving tips to share with you.

▎Carry an emergency jump starter with you

When driving in winter, we must be careful to prevent the battery from running out of power, as low temperatures can reduce battery activity, and older batteries are more prone to depletion. Therefore, before setting off, we should carefully check whether the battery needs maintenance or replacement, and we can also carry an emergency jump starter in case there are no other large vehicles nearby to provide jump-start assistance.

In addition to emergency jump starters, it is highly recommended that truck drivers use jump-starting to save themselves when the battery is dead. When jump-starting, connect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal, and ensure that the clips are securely locked. After connecting the wires, the vehicle with the dead battery can be attempted to start.

In addition, when parking on the road, avoid turning off the engine for a long time. Use high-power electrical equipment by adding an inverter. It is also recommended to disconnect the battery power when parking for a long time to prevent the battery from running out of power.

▎Valves frozen – a matter of brake safety

The most common application of valve connectors and switches in vehicles is in the braking system, and the normal and stable operation of the braking system is crucial to our personal safety. Taking the vehicle's relay valve as an example, its air inlet connects to the air reservoir, and its air outlet connects to the brake chamber. If any part of it freezes, the entire vehicle's braking will not function properly, which is extremely dangerous during driving.

In this situation, hot water can be poured on to thaw the system, while avoiding plastic and rubber hoses. For a complete solution, regularly check the air tank for water accumulation and drain it periodically. If excessive water accumulates, consider replacing the desiccant. Also, regularly check all air line connections and the ABS system; the tractor should simultaneously check both the tractor and trailer.

▎Change your driving habits and be extra careful

Having discussed the vehicle, let's talk about some issues drivers should pay attention to while driving. First, don't drive too fast, especially on icy or snowy roads. Always slow down, and absolutely avoid sudden steering or braking to prevent loss of control or inability to stop. In these situations, caution and low speed are always the best course of action.

Additionally, avoid frequent lane changes, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles when overtaking is necessary. In situations where necessary (such as icy or snowy roads, or uphill/downhill conditions), prepare snow chains in advance and install them on the drive axle and the last axle tire of the trailer; these are extremely useful. If snow chains are unavailable, place sand, felt, or other materials that increase traction near the tires on the road surface to help the vehicle pass.