3 Vital Tips to Prepare Your Truck for Summer

Summer is officially here and the heat is turning up. As an owner operator, you get used to life on the road. Long hours driving and focusing on work is enough to deal with without worrying about staying cool in scorching weather.

How can you take care of yourself and your truck amidst potentially dangerous rising temperatures? Here are 3 vital tips to help you prepare your truck for the summer.

Prep with pre-summer maintenance

Prevent cooling system malfunctions by making sure your long haul truck is summertime ready. This is important because problems that arise from the cooling system can seriously damage your semi and cause delays and added stress while you’re on the road. Let’s not forget costly repairs!

Here’s what you should get checked out before hitting the hot asphalt.

• Look at the antifreeze/coolant levels, ensuring it is not discolored or contains particles. When concentration levels are off, this is enough to cause the system not to function correctly. Check this every 20,000 miles or once every 3 months.
• Pressure wash the radiator, charger air cooler and the condenser to prevent clogs.
• Check the air conditioning system by making sure the blower motor isn’t making any noise and that there are no holes or leaks in the hose. Also give the condenser a once over to ensure there is no debris.

Drink up

One of the best ways to beat the heat and score points for good health is by drinking lots of water. Keep a water bottle filled and within easy reach, and make sure to keep sipping throughout the day. Not only will this help you deal with hot weather, but it will keep you awake and focused while driving.

Follow the weather

Hot, humid summers bring on intense thunderstorms that mean heavy rainfall and in turn, slick roads. Always keep an eye out on the weather report when you’re on the go. In Florida, a sunny day can turn into dark clouds and torrential downpour in minutes. Staying vigilant can help you prep backup routes and in case of a weather emergency.