Trucks and trailers need a good tune-up now and then from the constancy of navigating different terrain and long-distance driving. Once winter arrives, fleet maintenance becomes even more important to ensure road safety.
At Kingpin Trailers, we offer fleet maintenance at all of our main locations throughout Western Canada to keep our hardworking long-haulers safe and help them reach their destinations on schedule! Below, we’ll discuss a few services you should complete before hitting the winter highways.
Truck and Trailer Servicing for Winter
Many things can go wrong with your truck or trailer on the road, so it’s important to cover all your bases. Getting the key parts of your fleet inspected, maintained, and/or repaired will help you stay safe and sound before starting your winter drive!
Here are a few key parts you should have serviced for your trailer and tractor to ensure your safety on the road:
- Tires: Replace your summer tires with winter tires at the beginning of the season (ideally before the snowfall). Get the tread depth and pressure inspected and ensure they are properly aligned.
- Brakes: Brakes and their components, like brake valves, can be susceptible to damage in cold snaps, so get them inspected and replaced as needed.
- Fluid and oil check: Regularily check your fluid levels on all components of your tractor.
- Airline: Airline leaks and moisture build up can cause restricted airflow and freeze up and cause your brakes to freeze unlock. Get your air lines, valves and brake pots inspected for cracks and drain your air tanks regularly.
- Lights and electrical system: Heavy snow and less daylight make reliable lights essential on your truck and trailer. Get wires and connectors inspected for corrosion and test and/or replace all exterior lights.
- Battery: Your truck or reefer unit battery will drain much faster in cold weather. Have the battery and all connectors inspected, and replace if the battery is nearing its expiration date.
The Importance of Winter CVIP Inspections
In addition to standard winter maintenance, Alberta truck drivers are also required to bring their rig in for a CVIP inspection.
The Commercial Vehicle Inspection Program (CVIP) is a mandatory safety inspection in Alberta(and all jurisdictions) for long-haul drivers to ensure their trailer and tractors comply with provincial safety standards. These inspections require all trucks and trailers to perform annual maintenance and obtain recertifications.
Getting your fleet examined and given the “OK” by a CVIP-certified technician will help prevent a potential breakdown or roadside accident, maintaining the safety of all drivers on the road. Our mechanics at Kingpin are 100% certified to perform these inspections and ensure your truck and trailer are ready to hit the highway!
Winterize Your Fleet with Kingpin Trailers
Stay safe on the road with winter maintenance from Kingpin Trailers! Contact us today to learn more about our services for trailer repair, parts replacement, and more.
Need to upgrade your fleet? Check out our Inventory to see which trailers we currently have in stock from industry-leading brands.