Practical advice: how to prepare the truck for winter?

Working in winter conditions puts an extra load on diesel and gas forklifts, so it is important to properly maintain and prepare them before the cold weather arrives. A well-maintained forklift not only works more efficiently, but also avoids unexpected breakdowns and extends the life of the forklift. Here we have gathered some practical tips on how to prepare your truck for winter.

Choose the right accessory

• Tire studs or tire chains If the truck is to be operated outdoors, especially on icy or snowy surfaces, it is worth investing in tire studs or tire chains. They improve grip and help ensure safety:

• Heated cabin If your truck is without a cab or with a semi-cab, we recommend that you consider adding a heated cab:

• Renewal of headlights and work lighting Short winter days require good visibility. LED work lights are energy-efficient and provide strong light even in the dark:

• Windscreen cleaning system Make sure the windshield wipers and washer fluids are frost-proof.

Winter preparation

• Fuel system inspection and additives
• In the case of diesel fuel, use winter fuel additives that prevent paraffin deposition and fuel freezing. Check the fuel filters, if necessary, empty the water tank of the separator or change the filters.
• On gas lifts, check that the gas cylinder connections are properly sealed and do not leak. Our recommendation is to have the gas system serviced by your lifting equipment partner before the cold weather arrives.

• Filters Also check and change air filters regularly as snow and ice can create extra moisture. Air filters that have not been changed for a long time, in combination with higher humidity, can worsen the engine's performance and thereby create an additional load on the engine.
• Charging and checking the battery Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity. Check the battery voltage and charge it if necessary. If the battery condition has deteriorated, replace it with a new one.
• Inspection of coolant and heating system Make sure the coolant is frost resistant. Check the thermostat and water pump to prevent overheating or freezing.
• Brake system and steering mechanism maintenance Check the brake fluid to ensure it is suitable for low temperatures. Also make sure that the steering mechanism works smoothly and that the lubricants are suitable for winter conditions.

Daily maintenance

In summary

Preparing diesel and gas forklifts for winter requires both proper maintenance and the purchase of appropriate additional equipment. To ensure the company's work efficiency and safety, it is reasonable to invest in accessories suitable for winter work and to carry out all important maintenance work regularly. If you want professional help in preparing the forklift for winter or purchasing the necessary equipment, contact the sales or service manager of the nearest Forklift representative. So you can be sure that your truck is ready for all winter challenges! Often, experienced eyes detect unexpected/hidden defects that can cause inconvenience at an unexpected moment in cold weather.