Winter Time

Thanks U2. What I forgot was to mention was those trucks not having a APU. I would think that until the truck is equipped with an APU the FM would keep it out of the really cold weather, where a block heater is needed.

 

Drain your airtanks daily when you park. Keep the condensation out of the system, and you won't need the alcohol.

 

I just run the truck when its time for the ol' midnite "P"...

 

Hello frozen lock!

It's been 2 years, but it happened this morning.

Lube up your lock with WD-40 or some other frozen lock product.

Work it in good before it gets cold and do it often.

I started with a cup of coffee, then the receiver gave me some hot water. I'm not double looping the lock for the rest of winter cause I had to pour rather than submerge it.

I welcome any better suggestions or tricks.

 

Oh it was frozen internally. Key wouldn't turn the tumbler.

 

Maybe this will help

I keep a little (5/8th oz.) aerosol can of lock de-icer with me. It is made by Panef. It is a little bigger than a bic lighter, with a push in injector. (it is a white can on cardboard blister pack) I push it into the key slot and give it a few blast. usually works pretty fast. i found it at Wally World a few years ago, maybe they have it at a truck stop?

It contains isopropyl alcohol under pressure.

In the fall if I remember I put graphite in the locks and it helps prevent the problem.

 

Disclaimer: Use your own judgment; I'm not suggesting anybody do this. Just saying what has worked for me in my situation. Make sure that it is safe to use an open flame!!!!

A few times in desperation after an ice storm (pad lock on an out building), I have used my Bic lighter to gently warm up the key tumbler. Padlock hanging down and just letting the flame barely touch the key hole. It took about 20 - 30 seconds (Longer when below zero). Key was able to open the lock, afterwards I flooded the insides with 3-n-1 oil and it would last me a few weeks.

Remember you only need to get the mechanism above freezing.

 

I do the same thing to unfreeze my padlocks, except use WD40. Most of the time it will last a couple of months, and no more lock freezing problem.

 

great advice on the locks guys. thanks

 

all good advice i had a my first winter experience this week in WV and PA...snow and ice...took it easy and slow even though i seen drivers that didnt mainly 4wheelers seen alot of accidents on I70 had a car start sliding in front of me but i was driving slow enough to miss it also was a good thing i had 47k on the trailer also had someone just stop in front me that was a close one still dont understand that all in all i made it not bad for a newbie