May I suggest to all drivers, NEVER store fuel treatment bottles in the compartment under your sleeper bunk (or anywhere in the cab). The contents are extremely toxic and a leak can cause severe respiratory distress and can permanently damage the rubber or carpet lining of the cab or storage area
As someone who just got their commercial license this year, you have been a blessing. Thank you for the time, effort and commitment you put in these videos. They are lifesavers. 👍
I agree with you. I have many years of driving in winter conditions. I lived in Montana for many years. Today for me if I am on the road and not much traffic I am good to go. But when you get in traffic today I find it better to just get off the road. Just last week the road conditions was bad. Around 6 to 8 inches of snow on the road. Snow plows could not keep up with the snow. Then add high winds. I tell you I never seen so many truck drivers that can not drive in snow. They had to be going 65 mph. There was trucks off the road trucks ran into each other. It’s a nightmare. I pulled off the road could not make my delivery time. But no one question me why the load was late. It’s my ship. I am the captain. I had trucks passing me. They was next to me I could reached out and touch them and I was on the rumble strip. It is so crazy. I met another driver in the truck stop. He was saying the very same thing. I even learn things from you. I don’t know it all. Thank you for all you do!!!
I carry small propane tanks and a torch ..... can’t I just heat up that freeze? Asking since I’m from so-cal and now run in the northwest-Midwest. Been paying attention here...
Every year when the ice sets in; on my way home there's a small bend just before a roundabout just as the motorway end. Every year there's always a car laying there in the ditch on it's roof. And this year was no exception.
Good advice. But I'd like to add two things: 1) when you're driving in rain and there's a possibility of it turning to ice (and you don't have an outside temperature gauge), listen to your tires. When the whine of your tires stops - you're driving on ice. 2) if your truck isn't equipped with a kitchenette unit, like so many are today, pack away some emergency food supplies somewhere. In winter I carried a loaf of bread, a jar of peanut butter, a few cans of baked beans and some canned fruit. You'd be surprised how many times I was glad I did.
Hey Dave! a couple of tips from the low boy gallery. when I park up for the night, while I'm coming in to park off the hi way, I ride my brakes lightly in wet weather, it dries them out, then when I park I set the tractor brakes then I set my scotch blocks under the drive's and release the brakes. No froze brakes. Also, this next tip will save you ALOT of grief, and work, when you've been running sloppy conditions with a tarp load, carry a pump up yard sprayer with used antifreeze in it and before you roll up your tarps, spray them lightly with this and roll them up. when you go to unroll them again and it's been cold a while, they ain't all frozen and stuck together, and you aren't beating them with a winch bar and knocking holes in them. Stay safe brothers!
I use the anti freeze too but i suggest RV antifreeze as its non-toxic. Its not cheap, but i think its better to work with and if you spill it or aomthing no dogs or anything can get sick.
I’m a 30 yr driver and love to watch your videos.Can never learn enough!I had a beautiful auto and gave her up for a standard,I was debating the switch but you gave me the information I new was right..I have more control in a standard.so made the switch..ps..I drive in the snow states
Very thorough, well done. For lock de-icing on my personal vehicles, I've pre-treated them in the fall by dipping my key in anti-freeze, placing it in the key hole and turn it back and forth. I repeat several times for each lock. The lubricant in the anti-freeze won't corrode the lock internals like alcohols will. Anti-freeze has also worked as a lock de-icer when no de-icer was available. Be careful not to allow anti-freeze to drip or spill onto steps as it is slippery. Keep on truckin' !
I keep a bag of ice melt in one of the tool boxes, handy for those times you need a little bit more traction and you don't want to fight with chains to move only a couple feet.
Dave I always like your advice on safe driving. Not to many drivers I've seen takes it slow and easy in bad weather conditions. I seen so many drivers driving to fast for condition and get upset with me because I'm taking it slow. Then later on down the road I see that same driver in a ditch or in a major accident
Sir thank you for this channel you’ve given me so much invaluable information it’s honestly crazy. I got one year experience, I started as soon as I turned 21. Your tips have kept me out of so many situations I’ve seen other trucks get into by not paying attention. Thank you Dave!
For some guys this will be their first winter, but yes, there is no replacing just good old common sense. What I've noticed the last few years though is that common sense isn't so common among people anymore. Dave
Mr C some guys are from areas that don't have winter. I never saw snow till I went in the Army. Many new long haul truckers see snow or real cold for the first time at work when they are on their first long haul.
Even 2 years later this video still helping people especially a newbie like me I've driven in the winter time for decades in a car. But the things you laid out here are pretty great especially with black eyes and dispatch. Thank you very much
You know I don’t drive too much in ice and snow these days, but every now and then I will get sent up to Albuquerque. Wal Mart does not stock below freezing stable windshield washer fluid at any time of the year here in Phoenix! Make sure that you never nab some In a location where it is sold!
Sadly, I don't drive it in the winter anymore but I can do a cold start for you. She doesn't really chug away at first like the older engines used to do, she's still pretty tame when she does fire. Dave
Great tips! I'll add my two cents. Carry a bag of salt for situations where you need a little traction to get the truck moving. If you park on snow or ice after your trip move the truck forward some after 5 or 10 minutes of tire cooling. Carry not one pair of insulated gloves but at least two, they get wet. Learn how to put chains on before you need to put chains on! The weather is going to be pretty crappy when you do need them.
I've started skiing more recently, as the weather has been getting colder here. Granted I just drive a boring old four wheeler, but go SLOW and stay in CONTROL. That's what I've learned. Getting where you're going in a car is faster than going in a hospital bed.
I delivered to a place in Chicago once that did not tell anyone they moved. I backed into the dock to wait until they opened. Opening time comes and I walk to the door and the place is closed so I call them. They tell me they are opened so I ask them if they are really at the address I was at. Surprise they moved!! This dock was at a steep grade with around 3 foot of snow. A snow shovel to move the snow and hammer to break the ice then I was free!!
In my personal pickup truck, I built up a nice supply in my tool box and under my back seat. Military surplus ET/ folding shovel, socket set, wrench and tool roll, heavy tow strap, shackles, and other recovery gear, long and heavy jumper cables, and a good first aid kit.
I qualified for my class 1 license back in the Jurassic, well 1973. I hauled almost everything except livestock, but that changed when I went to work driving a bus for the City of Edmonton. I needed a steady paycheck. My kids were little then and I wanted to be around home. Now I have grandkids and I retired after 32 years of hauling old ladies to bingo and kids to the mall. Really enjoy your videos. Makes me wonder though if I have forgotten how to drive those big ugly hunks of iron. Hope not. I can still fall off a bicycle. Should be okay to drive a truck other than I'd miss my afternoon nap.
Add some silicon lube to your weather stripping on your doors when it is SUPER cold. I've had condensation from my breathing freeze up on the doors and lock me out.
Got all that chief! Even the sleeping bag. Great vid! The boss handed me keys to a 2020 Volvo this afternoon when I got back to the yard. Not a big fan of Volvo, but wow they sure are nice when their new. Wish it was a Pete. 😞 The cell phone thing is a big one.....even plugging in your milage when crossing state lines..... not a good idea.
I always run lower pressure 95 psi in winter ( CTI has 50 psi when empty) tires warm up faster. Better traction in winter. Yes might burn more fuel when fully loaded. Not empty. But who is paying the tow bill. Wrecked steer by object hidden under the snow on the shoulder. Cant see as far. LoL Take your sun glasses off get some sunshine and take your vit C and D during covid. Yes keep up rpm up when climbing icy hill. Again warm up tires wheel bearings on trailer too before pulling the hill. Put methonal ( windshiel washer fluid 40% methonal Cdn washer) Jake is good because of front auto- adjust front brakes. Some old trucks had NO front brakes. Had an old Ford Lousiville had a "slipper road setting" on the front brakes. Old trucks had manual adjusters could be "slacked off" in winter. Trailer brakes too. ( just one rolling wheel rather than sliding will help prevent trailer jacknifing ( got a ticket once for that NO weight at back end) When i left inspection station X trucker DOT made comment ( what u do when u leave here i dont want to know) He knew it was safer. I had a tri- axle. More braking power than a tandem. If they one wheel was totally backed off. Wow. Safer byt got a ticket. Totally messed up system. So yes use jaje ( engine break gives drives more breaking power if need to use some pedal brake. You dont want toloose your stearing by having to use excessive brake. I ussually leave the "engine brake "on the low setting. Dont use the high setting in low range. New ISX Cummins ( and some others) excessive back torque through driveline. Could cause driveline/ rear end damage. Yup seen it happen. Snap bang pop. Use high setting only on dry pavement. Only in high range. 1 403 830 4124 we build "emergency traction on ice" for vehicles ( semi have own pressurized air system) locomotives have systems. Why NOT your truck. To rear of trailer too. Great for preventing jacknifing too.
i'd recommend to NOt do Anything *suddenly* on snow ,ice or wet bridges . Turn , Excelerate , Brake, even shift personally ,its Incredibly easy to break traction which you are trying to avoid like the dickens. Dave is correct about following distance ,and about getting the heck off the road asap in ice . for CDL drivers in most cases Chains are Not for driving your route , They are for getting to where you can stop safely or to where you can drive without em.
Great information thank you I live in the Alpine area in Australia and have some snow to go over when leaving home all your information is great thanks again 👍🦘
Thank you for all the information you put out on this channel as a new driver I observe and listen to the older experienced drivers. I've learned so much from you. Keep up the great videos!
Trucks, especially today should be idled below 20ﾟF. The reason is because fleet trucks are predominantly automatic and very expensive to get a wrecker out there to jumpstart you since you cannot pull it with a chain. Regardless whether you have new batteries or not if it is cold enough the motor oil will thicken up after being shut down for any length of time and you will have a tough time starting the truck. One more thing is if you have a strong sulfur smell when you are driving that means you have 1 or more batteries that are failing and is cooking off. At that point you need to get your battery check and replaced as soon as possible. Another tip, automatics and super singles are a deadly combination in winter driver. If you have both, best to park it!
I’ve always hard it as “keeping the shiny side up” but that works too. You didn’t mention using your trailer spike. If you LIGHTLY pull on it your trailer brakes will pull you back and keep everything straight. One more tip. Check the forecast before you head out. Wondering why you don’t run an open shoulder tire eg. XDN2 or XDS? Either way, good tips. More people need this info. 👍
Very good advice! I carry all that and one more thing, thing of kitty litter, if it's icy around a trl I'm hooking to and can't get under it, I throw a bit down and it's like dry pavement!
Thank you for sharing much insight. I am a new truck driver working on attaining an orientation with Covenant trucking. I look forward to utilizing your experiences once the rubber hits the road.
When trailers have been parked air bags deflated. The trailer brakes are ussually been set. Or leak doen causing brakes to come on. In winter take caution. Make sure trailer is the correct height to tractor fifth whee. Under shooting is such a hassle anyway. Hook up air lines to trailer. And yes air the trailer " before" hooking up with 5th wheel. The " pump" on the kingpin by the 5th wheel will loosen frozen brakes "if the trailer brakes are air up". Old Cdn trick. Yup some will wonder what the heck u are doing. Yup the others get hookef up quicker. But you get to actually drive away sooner. While their out banging on the back trailers brakes in the snow and cold with a hammer. He who laughs last laughs best. Next time they just might ask what the heck you are doing. I did LoL
I got all my winter rides undercoated and fluid filmed that stuff will not dry until a long while or it starts getting washed off or all the road debris sticks to it/ sand/salt/snow. Keeping undercarriage from rusting
I guess I should be doing these stories after every video. Lots of people seem to really like them. So, my apologies and I'll try to do a story after everyone. Thanks for watching! Dave
It all depends on weather conditions, and knowledge of the route. In winter i slow down only if the roads are icy or/and heavily snow covered. Even then its a great way to improve your driving skill, you learn and adapt much faster. Ive noticed my driving skill decrease substantially because i havent pushed my skills like i used to. Time and place tho is key, every place and all times is not the case. Ive had my unit go sideways on me at highway speeds multiple times do to unforeseeable circumstances and because I had the previous practice and discipline I knew exactly what I had to do. Hit the throttle, counter steer modulate the trailer brakes and i was back in shape quickly.
I disagree with you on one thing, the four wheelers are a problem but the biggest problem I have are the super truckers running in the hammer lane way to fast for conditions. It's not a neighborly thing to do but when I find them in th e ditch 5 miles down the road I always give them a double toot of the air horn. It's not worth it being out there in the white stuff I usually call it a day to many variables I can't control, my truck doesn't get wrecked and my insurance rates don't go up
Freightliner had it's good years and bad years as far as quality control was concerned. I found sometimes they tried so hard at making the truck light that components could break too easily. I helped a guy with a Freightliner change a clutch linkage in Salinas one time and the rods were as thick as a pencil. No wonder they broke. Dave
The classic xl are great trucks. They were spec'd better than most others. They are the best looking freightlines imo. Especially the flattops. People hate on freightliners. My xl is a workhorse. Its easy to work on the engine because of the long nose too. The downside of mine is that it turns like a yacht
I felt like the FLD was cheaped out on in a lot of ways but I don’t consider it to be the worst purchase in the world either, there’s far worse out there.
Dave great advice but get out of that bad weather. You and your wife and yes the large car come to Florida to get warm. O' buy the way we will not object if you feel the need to shovel the sunshine out of the driveway.
I know you made a video advising to stay away from lease purchase opportunities, but if someone was interested, what would be the right questions to ask? What happens when and if the truck is fully paid off? Are you stuck with one company or are you free to pursue other opportunities?
And what do you do when the wipers ice up where you can not stop and your windshield is getting worse to see out and you can't reach around to grab the blade to try and snap it to knock the ice off the defroster is not blowing hot enough air to melt anything.
what do you think about a law that would make it illegal to interfere with the movement of interstate commerce that would cut down on negative interactions with 4 wheelers any time of the year
When they introduced air to air rads manufacturers recommended doing away with the use of winter fronts in all but the most extreme cold, because of potential overheating.
Don't do the bonehead crap I did last night....didn't pay attention to the washer fluid I dumped in the resevoir. Put the plain blue +32 fluid in, instead if the °0 or negative. Out on I-76 in Ohio this morning at about °12, and iced up the salt on the windshield.
Always carry glad hand seals no matter the weather!
Do a cold start on the peterbilt
Best tip for winter driving, stay south of I40 😆
Hehe. Yep that is a GREAT TIP.
I keep a bag of SALT, this morning I got stuck, my wheels would spin on the the ice, I used salt, and 5 minuter later, took off.
May I suggest to all drivers, NEVER store fuel treatment bottles in the compartment under your sleeper bunk (or anywhere in the cab). The contents are extremely toxic and a leak can cause severe respiratory distress and can permanently damage the rubber or carpet lining of the cab or storage area
As someone who just got their commercial license this year, you have been a blessing. Thank you for the time, effort and commitment you put in these videos. They are lifesavers. 👍
Glad to help!
I'm at snail speed in the winter. It takes some time but I get there in one peace, and the customer is happy to get the load :)
I agree with you.
I have many years of driving in winter conditions. I lived in Montana for many years.
Today for me if I am on the road and not much traffic I am good to go.
But when you get in traffic today I find it better to just get off the road.
Just last week the road conditions was bad. Around 6 to 8 inches of snow on the road. Snow plows could not keep up with the snow. Then add high winds. I tell you I never seen so many truck drivers that can not drive in snow. They had to be going 65 mph. There was trucks off the road trucks ran into each other. It’s a nightmare.
I pulled off the road could not make my delivery time. But no one question me why the load was late.
It’s my ship. I am the captain.
I had trucks passing me. They was next to me I could reached out and touch them and I was on the rumble strip. It is so crazy. I met another driver in the truck stop. He was saying the very same thing.
I even learn things from you.
I don’t know it all.
Thank you for all you do!!!
A snow shovel has saved me a few times.
In the winter the snail will always be the safer one, the hare will be the four wheeler that goes too fast. That's the way I see it
Agreed!
Don’t put your trailer breaks on when you park or they will freeze to the drums then it’s screw driver and hammer time
That's right!! Should have mentioned that. Dave
Dont use a screwdriver, it will damage the tip. It's best to strike the drum directly with a sledge. I carry a 4lb sledge in the truck.
Smart Trucking hard to think of everything Dave.
I carry small propane tanks and a torch ..... can’t I just heat up that freeze? Asking since I’m from so-cal and now run in the northwest-Midwest.
Been paying attention here...
This is also an issue with aircraft. Since planes almost never have driven wheels, if a pilot sets the brakes during winter, they freeze.
I like to carry a good heavy chain in case I or someone needs a pull along with a shovel
Every year when the ice sets in; on my way home there's a small bend just before a roundabout just as the motorway end. Every year there's always a car laying there in the ditch on it's roof. And this year was no exception.
Good advice. But I'd like to add two things: 1) when you're driving in rain and there's a possibility of it turning to ice (and you don't have an outside temperature gauge), listen to your tires. When the whine of your tires stops - you're driving on ice. 2) if your truck isn't equipped with a kitchenette unit, like so many are today, pack away some emergency food supplies somewhere. In winter I carried a loaf of bread, a jar of peanut butter, a few cans of baked beans and some canned fruit. You'd be surprised how many times I was glad I did.
Around here we wait it out when its not safe. Good time to get some rest and check the truck.
Exactly!
Great advice just to add one more snow brush
I have all you listed watching u over the years you have taught me well grasshopper.👍
Thanks Tommy! I imagine winter has already hit in your area as well by now. Let the fun begin. Stay safe! Dave
Hey Dave!
a couple of tips from the low boy gallery.
when I park up for the night, while I'm coming in to park off the hi way, I ride my brakes lightly in wet weather, it dries them out, then when I park I set the tractor brakes then I set my scotch blocks under the drive's and release the brakes. No froze brakes.
Also, this next tip will save you ALOT of grief, and work, when you've been running sloppy conditions with a tarp load, carry a pump up yard sprayer with used antifreeze in it and before you roll up your tarps, spray them lightly with this and roll them up.
when you go to unroll them again and it's been cold a while, they ain't all frozen and stuck together, and you aren't beating them with a winch bar and knocking holes in them.
Stay safe brothers!
Excellent pointers Kelly! Thanks . Dave
I use the anti freeze too but i suggest RV antifreeze as its non-toxic. Its not cheap, but i think its better to work with and if you spill it or aomthing no dogs or anything can get sick.
I’m a 30 yr driver and love to watch your videos.Can never learn enough!I had a beautiful auto and gave her up for a standard,I was debating the switch but you gave me the information I new was right..I have more control in a standard.so made the switch..ps..I drive in the snow states
Very thorough, well done. For lock de-icing on my personal vehicles, I've pre-treated them in the fall by dipping my key in anti-freeze, placing it in the key hole and turn it back and forth. I repeat several times for each lock. The lubricant in the anti-freeze won't corrode the lock internals like alcohols will. Anti-freeze has also worked as a lock de-icer when no de-icer was available. Be careful not to allow anti-freeze to drip or spill onto steps as it is slippery. Keep on truckin' !
I keep a bag of ice melt in one of the tool boxes, handy for those times you need a little bit more traction and you don't want to fight with chains to move only a couple feet.
Dave I always like your advice on safe driving. Not to many drivers I've seen takes it slow and easy in bad weather conditions. I seen so many drivers driving to fast for condition and get upset with me because I'm taking it slow. Then later on down the road I see that same driver in a ditch or in a major accident
Yup!
I used the jake alot on snow. It worked well
Or if water starts freezing on the backside of the mirrors, there’s ice on the roads.
Sir thank you for this channel you’ve given me so much invaluable information it’s honestly crazy. I got one year experience, I started as soon as I turned 21. Your tips have kept me out of so many situations I’ve seen other trucks get into by not paying attention. Thank you Dave!
Thank you Casper!! Dave
It’s a shame that you have to keep reminding drivers about all the things that should be just common sense. But I thank you anyway.
For some guys this will be their first winter, but yes, there is no replacing just good old common sense. What I've noticed the last few years though is that common sense isn't so common among people anymore. Dave
Mr C some guys are from areas that don't have winter. I never saw snow till I went in the Army. Many new long haul truckers see snow or real cold for the first time at work when they are on their first long haul.
Even 2 years later this video still helping people especially a newbie like me I've driven in the winter time for decades in a car. But the things you laid out here are pretty great especially with black eyes and dispatch. Thank you very much
Agree on every part! Hello from russian Siberia!
Wow! Hello out there! Dave
You know I don’t drive too much in ice and snow these days, but every now and then I will get sent up to Albuquerque. Wal Mart does not stock below freezing stable windshield washer fluid at any time of the year here in Phoenix! Make sure that you never nab some In a location where it is sold!
I'd like to see a cold start video of your Pete, maybe a little drive to get her good and warmed up.
Sadly, I don't drive it in the winter anymore but I can do a cold start for you. She doesn't really chug away at first like the older engines used to do, she's still pretty tame when she does fire. Dave
She's a fine older truck, what are your plans for it?
"looks guffy as hell" 😂 his words about the winter Canadian hat. This is one of the best chanels I know.
Great tips! I'll add my two cents. Carry a bag of salt for situations where you need a little traction to get the truck moving. If you park on snow or ice after your trip move the truck forward some after 5 or 10 minutes of tire cooling. Carry not one pair of insulated gloves but at least two, they get wet. Learn how to put chains on before you need to put chains on! The weather is going to be pretty crappy when you do need them.
Good tips!!
I've started skiing more recently, as the weather has been getting colder here. Granted I just drive a boring old four wheeler, but go SLOW and stay in CONTROL. That's what I've learned. Getting where you're going in a car is faster than going in a hospital bed.
Thank you !! Great video
Lots of information
I delivered to a place in Chicago once that did not tell anyone they moved. I backed into the dock to wait until they opened. Opening time comes and I walk to the door and the place is closed so I call them. They tell me they are opened so I ask them if they are really at the address I was at. Surprise they moved!! This dock was at a steep grade with around 3 foot of snow. A snow shovel to move the snow and hammer to break the ice then I was free!!
For Pete's sake, eh!
Excellent expert advice
Thank you!
@@SmartTrucking Your welcome
This video was handy as hell.......2 thumbs up!
Thank you! Dave
Always keep the fifth wheel properly lubed in the winter.
In my personal pickup truck, I built up a nice supply in my tool box and under my back seat. Military surplus ET/ folding shovel, socket set, wrench and tool roll, heavy tow strap, shackles, and other recovery gear, long and heavy jumper cables, and a good first aid kit.
Bleed your air tanks so no condensation will build up and freeze in the air lines. At the end of the day I bleed all my lines.
Hence the term. “Ridin round lookin goofy”. But them ears ain’t cold 🤣😂 great video
I qualified for my class 1 license back in the Jurassic, well 1973. I hauled almost everything except livestock, but that changed when I went to work driving a bus for the City of Edmonton. I needed a steady paycheck. My kids were little then and I wanted to be around home. Now I have grandkids and I retired after 32 years of hauling old ladies to bingo and kids to the mall. Really enjoy your videos. Makes me wonder though if I have forgotten how to drive those big ugly hunks of iron. Hope not. I can still fall off a bicycle. Should be okay to drive a truck other than I'd miss my afternoon nap.
Add some silicon lube to your weather stripping on your doors when it is SUPER cold. I've had condensation from my breathing freeze up on the doors and lock me out.
Thank you sir
Got all that chief! Even the sleeping bag. Great vid!
The boss handed me keys to a 2020 Volvo this afternoon when I got back to the yard. Not a big fan of Volvo, but wow they sure are nice when their new. Wish it was a Pete. 😞
The cell phone thing is a big one.....even plugging in your milage when crossing state lines..... not a good idea.
I got a 2020 Pete 567. Cummins x15. Now a few months later it's got almost 24k miles.
If you're using a truck GPS it should keep track of miles in every state. 👍
I learned trucking from an old demon of a trucker, and its nice to see someone in the public teaching people what needs to be taught
Thanks Tim!
I always run lower pressure 95 psi in winter ( CTI has 50 psi when empty) tires warm up faster. Better traction in winter. Yes might burn more fuel when fully loaded. Not empty. But who is paying the tow bill. Wrecked steer by object hidden under the snow on the shoulder. Cant see as far. LoL Take your sun glasses off get some sunshine and take your vit C and D during covid. Yes keep up rpm up when climbing icy hill. Again warm up tires wheel bearings on trailer too before pulling the hill. Put methonal ( windshiel washer fluid 40% methonal Cdn washer) Jake is good because of front auto- adjust front brakes. Some old trucks had NO front brakes. Had an old Ford Lousiville had a "slipper road setting" on the front brakes. Old trucks had manual adjusters could be "slacked off" in winter. Trailer brakes too. ( just one rolling wheel rather than sliding will help prevent trailer jacknifing ( got a ticket once for that NO weight at back end) When i left inspection station X trucker DOT made comment ( what u do when u leave here i dont want to know) He knew it was safer. I had a tri- axle. More braking power than a tandem. If they one wheel was totally backed off. Wow. Safer byt got a ticket. Totally messed up system. So yes use jaje ( engine break gives drives more breaking power if need to use some pedal brake. You dont want toloose your stearing by having to use excessive brake. I ussually leave the "engine brake "on the low setting. Dont use the high setting in low range. New ISX Cummins ( and some others) excessive back torque through driveline. Could cause driveline/ rear end damage. Yup seen it happen. Snap bang pop. Use high setting only on dry pavement. Only in high range. 1 403 830 4124 we build "emergency traction on ice" for vehicles ( semi have own pressurized air system) locomotives have systems. Why NOT your truck. To rear of trailer too. Great for preventing jacknifing too.
Thankyou so much Sir for you valuable informatiòn,God bless you and your family and happy hollidays.
You too Manuel!
i'd recommend to NOt do Anything *suddenly* on snow ,ice or wet bridges . Turn , Excelerate , Brake, even shift personally ,its Incredibly easy to break traction which you are trying to avoid like the dickens. Dave is correct about following distance ,and about getting the heck off the road asap in ice . for CDL drivers in most cases Chains are Not for driving your route , They are for getting to where you can stop safely or to where you can drive without em.
I hate winter a little more every year
Great information thank you I live in the Alpine area in Australia and have some snow to go over when leaving home all your information is great thanks again 👍🦘
Thank you for all the information you put out on this channel as a new driver I observe and listen to the older experienced drivers. I've learned so much from you. Keep up the great videos!
Thanks Phillip!
Always keep a spare wiper blade and chain pliers are good to have also
Trucks, especially today should be idled below 20ﾟF. The reason is because fleet trucks are predominantly automatic and very expensive to get a wrecker out there to jumpstart you since you cannot pull it with a chain. Regardless whether you have new batteries or not if it is cold enough the motor oil will thicken up after being shut down for any length of time and you will have a tough time starting the truck. One more thing is if you have a strong sulfur smell when you are driving that means you have 1 or more batteries that are failing and is cooking off. At that point you need to get your battery check and replaced as soon as possible. Another tip, automatics and super singles are a deadly combination in winter driver. If you have both, best to park it!
I’ve always hard it as “keeping the shiny side up” but that works too.
You didn’t mention using your trailer spike. If you LIGHTLY pull on it your trailer brakes will pull you back and keep everything straight.
One more tip. Check the forecast before you head out.
Wondering why you don’t run an open shoulder tire eg. XDN2 or XDS?
Either way, good tips. More people need this info. 👍
Great tips there Dave. I also carry a small butane camp stove and lots of water.
If it looks stupid and it’s works, it ain’t stupid
Very true.. thanks for the tips👍
Very good advice! I carry all that and one more thing, thing of kitty litter, if it's icy around a trl I'm hooking to and can't get under it, I throw a bit down and it's like dry pavement!
I wish I had a mentor like you.
All great tips. Thxy for all yr video's cheers.
Thank you for sharing much insight. I am a new truck driver working on attaining an orientation with Covenant trucking. I look forward to utilizing your experiences once the rubber hits the road.
Great video as always. I look forward to each of your guys videos. Blake
Thank you!
Here’s the best winter driving tips of all: move down here to Phoenix and drive back-and-forth to Los Angeles
When trailers have been parked air bags deflated. The trailer brakes are ussually been set. Or leak doen causing brakes to come on. In winter take caution. Make sure trailer is the correct height to tractor fifth whee. Under shooting is such a hassle anyway. Hook up air lines to trailer. And yes air the trailer " before" hooking up with 5th wheel. The " pump" on the kingpin by the 5th wheel will loosen frozen brakes "if the trailer brakes are air up". Old Cdn trick. Yup some will wonder what the heck u are doing. Yup the others get hookef up quicker. But you get to actually drive away sooner. While their out banging on the back trailers brakes in the snow and cold with a hammer. He who laughs last laughs best. Next time they just might ask what the heck you are doing. I did LoL
Great advice 👍🏽
Very helpful & Please Keep an extra set of windshield wipers as well
Great contant
I got all my winter rides undercoated and fluid filmed that stuff will not dry until a long while or it starts getting washed off or all the road debris sticks to it/ sand/salt/snow. Keeping undercarriage from rusting
01:39 i got the same hat with Rabbitpelt, i have to take it off in Winter even when its -10°C outside its too warm!
Nice
Solid bro.. thank you
Thank you Saeed!
Aww, no winter story at the end? :(
I guess I should be doing these stories after every video. Lots of people seem to really like them. So, my apologies and I'll try to do a story after everyone. Thanks for watching! Dave
It all depends on weather conditions, and knowledge of the route. In winter i slow down only if the roads are icy or/and heavily snow covered. Even then its a great way to improve your driving skill, you learn and adapt much faster. Ive noticed my driving skill decrease substantially because i havent pushed my skills like i used to. Time and place tho is key, every place and all times is not the case.
Ive had my unit go sideways on me at highway speeds multiple times do to unforeseeable circumstances and because I had the previous practice and discipline I knew exactly what I had to do. Hit the throttle, counter steer modulate the trailer brakes and i was back in shape quickly.
You have to always have 50-100 pounds or more of concrete powder. This is an only way to escape an ice trap at a truck stop.
My opinion is IF, IF ya have great paying freight then manage ya funds n take off December, January, February lmao
I disagree with you on one thing, the four wheelers are a problem but the biggest problem I have are the super truckers running in the hammer lane way to fast for conditions. It's not a neighborly thing to do but when I find them in th e ditch 5 miles down the road I always give them a double toot of the air horn. It's not worth it being out there in the white stuff I usually call it a day to many variables I can't control, my truck doesn't get wrecked and my insurance rates don't go up
What's your opinion on the old Freightliner Classic trucks?
Freightliner had it's good years and bad years as far as quality control was concerned. I found sometimes they tried so hard at making the truck light that components could break too easily. I helped a guy with a Freightliner change a clutch linkage in Salinas one time and the rods were as thick as a pencil. No wonder they broke. Dave
The classic xl are great trucks. They were spec'd better than most others. They are the best looking freightlines imo. Especially the flattops. People hate on freightliners. My xl is a workhorse. Its easy to work on the engine because of the long nose too. The downside of mine is that it turns like a yacht
I felt like the FLD was cheaped out on in a lot of ways but I don’t consider it to be the worst purchase in the world either, there’s far worse out there.
Hi Dave, Can I call you dad? Your like a father too me. I have listened to every single word you have just said. Appreciate the time pops.
Dave great advice but get out of that bad weather. You and your wife and yes the large car come to Florida to get warm. O' buy the way we will not object if you feel the need to shovel the sunshine out of the driveway.
We used to go to Marco Island or Naples every year.Stopped going when the kids grew up. I still try to talk Cathy into going back. Take care Tucker!
Is it a good idea to slide your trailer tandems all the way back on slippery conditions to put more weight on your drives for traction?
Great job on the video driver
Thank you Slim!
Just met you at Tim's. Have fun in the snow lol
Hey Jefferson! Nice meeting you! Never thought to ask where you were headed? Dave
Can't take advice from someone who drives a Chevy 🤔😎 good day thank you for the video
Don't get me started. Too long a story.
good work gloves... that ive lost XD
Sunnyside up
👍
The thunbnail arrows are really annoying.
Really? Gee it doesn't take much to annoy you. LOL
I know you made a video advising to stay away from lease purchase opportunities, but if someone was interested, what would be the right questions to ask? What happens when and if the truck is fully paid off? Are you stuck with one company or are you free to pursue other opportunities?
When the truck is paid off you should be able to move to any other carrier you desire or sell it, if you wish.
What do you think about using the Traction control button in the winter? I've never used it but was thinking about it.
running empty my uncle used to put a dime in the blue gladhand so the trailer brakes wouldn't lock up
Geezuz!
@@SmartTrucking well he was crazy he was a driver for 50 yrs but yes he taught me to use the jakes in snow and other things i use today
we have 8 NBB extra lights so its no problem driving in the dark. i dont get why you in noth america don use those
Most states don't allow it.
And what do you do when the wipers ice up where you can not stop and your windshield is getting worse to see out and you can't reach around to grab the blade to try and snap it to knock the ice off the defroster is not blowing hot enough air to melt anything.
The wipers don't ice up instantly. Get to a safe stopping spot before it becomes an issue.
New batteries, new tires etc. About 6000...
Part of the reason why you can't work cheap. Cause owning and maintaining a truck isn't cheap.
what do you think about a law that would make it illegal to interfere with the movement of interstate commerce that would cut down on negative interactions with 4 wheelers any time of the year
Are we talking about the mandatory breaks in California?
Semi trucks don’t require the cover on the grills nowadays? Do they have the tendency to overheat the engine.
When they introduced air to air rads manufacturers recommended doing away with the use of winter fronts in all but the most extreme cold, because of potential overheating.
I'll trade you an 85 Big Red for your Pete?
Don't do the bonehead crap I did last night....didn't pay attention to the washer fluid I dumped in the resevoir. Put the plain blue +32 fluid in, instead if the °0 or negative. Out on I-76 in Ohio this morning at about °12, and iced up the salt on the windshield.
Mabey stay behind the plow trucks so you dont jackknife across the side ditch after bullying past us....🤔
No thanks. I don't drive in winter