Let us tell you this: winter on the road is no joke. If you’ve been out there in -30 dregrees, stuck on the shoulder with frozen brakes, you know what I mean. If you haven’t yet, better prepare, because it’s coming. If you don’t get ready before the snow hits, it will hit you harder than you think. Here’s what you should do before the snow and ice gets the best of you.

GET YOUR TRUCK AND TRAILER READY

Antifreeze. Don’t just look at it. Make sure it’s good down to -30F or even -4F.
Air tanks. Purge them every day. If water freezes inside, your brakes will lock solid, and you won’t be moving.
Wipers and fluid. Don’t keep summer fluid in there. It’ll freeze and smear. Get the real winter stuff.
DEF system. If you’ve got DEF, clean out the tank, swap the filter, and every couple of years do the purge valve too. Cold weather makes DEF a headache if you don’t.
Heat and defrost. Check them all: the bunk, the cab, and that windshield defroster. There is nothing worse than waking up in the cold with no heat.
Tires. Make sure the drive tires have enough tread because those are making the whole traction.
Weight. Put a little more on your driving axle. If you’re stuck in snow or mud, that extra weight might be the only thing that gets you out.
Radiator cover. It’s an old school trick, but it works. When it's very cold, you need to cover it with some cardboard so the engine keeps warm a little bit.
Fuel. Additives are your best friends. Don’t let diesel gel on you. And never run below half a tank, it keeps your fuel warmer.

CHAINS AND LAWS

You need chains. Don’t argue with it. In Colorado, the law says seven (3 pairs and a half). Carry them, or you’ll regret it. Keep one chain separate. Sometimes you’ll need to pull someone, or maybe they’ll pull you.

TOOLS AND WEATHER

Check the weather. Do it before you roll out. Plan your route. If things change, call in and update your ETA. That way, no one’s in the dark.
Fuel filters. They clog all the time in the cold. Carry a spare and the wrench to swap it out yourself.
CB radio, keep it on. In winter, it can save your life. If something’s blocking the road up ahead, you’ll hear it before you see it.

EMERGENCY KIT

Pack like you might get stuck overnight.
• Food.
• Water.
• Warm clothes.
• Blankets.
You’ll thank yourself when the storm hits and there’s no tow coming till morning.

REMEMBER: Winter is unforgiving. We’ve seen drivers freeze their air lines, crack their tanks, and lose whole days waiting for repairs, all because they weren’t ready. Get your truck right, carry the extras, and take winter seriously. When the snow piles up, you’ll be glad you did.