Maintaining heavy-duty equipment is a tough job. But during a winter like this one, where polar vortices and arctic temperatures have covered most of North America for months, it can feel downright impossible. Snow, wind, freezing rain, road chemicals and frigid temperatures all have adverse effects on heavy-duty components.
This is especially true for commercial trailers, where nearly all components are completely exposed to winter elements.
To keep a trailer operating at peak performance levels during a winter like this, fleets and owner-operators must be diligent in inspecting equipment for breakdowns and spec’ing the right aftermarket parts.
That’s where your business comes in.
Distributors and independent service shops prepared to serve customers during this punishing weather have a significant advantage in the marketplace.
“[Weather] extremes one way or another can have an effect throughout a trailer,” says Jeff Driver, vice president of sales and marketing for Vanguard National Parts. “In the winter we don’t necessarily see more repairs — but there are a lot more breakdowns.”
Arguably the biggest hindrance to commercial trailers during winter months is corrosion.
