What Can Be Done to Prevent Freeze Ups in Your Commercial Truck and Trailer Air System?

For over five decades, Munden Truck & Equipment has been providing a wide range of commercial truck and trailer maintenance services to customers and clients in Kamloops and the BC Interior.

Munden Truck & Equipment has a rich history serving the British Columbia forestry industry. Although we began as a small operation in Savona, BC, the company has grown to include third-party commercial vehicle maintenance and heavy-duty services.

As part of our repair services, we regularly provide air system maintenance and other mechanical repairs for commercial trucks and trailers. During the colder winter months, it is important to ensure that your commercial truck and trailer air systems do not freeze up. Freeze-ups are even more common during shoulder seasons, when temperatures can fluctuate from well below to above zero.

Winter temperatures can take their toll on your systems, but preparation can help prevent freeze-ups and save time and money.

Invest in Automatic Drain Valves

During winter, as snow and ice melt, it is inevitable that condensed water can build up. That moisture can be damaging to your air-brake system. In colder climates, ice can block air from reaching the brake mechanism and can lead to the wheels locking, which is dangerous.

Automatic drain valves can help prevent this problem, and modern systems may already have them installed. If you are not sure, check whether they are installed and monitor the valves regularly to make sure they are working properly.

Maintain Your Air Dryers

Air dryers are integral to keeping your system running. In colder weather, water can freeze in valves and create problems with your air-brake system. That is why it is important to regularly maintain your air dryer, including filter replacement according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

A neglected air dryer can cause avoidable downtime, especially when temperatures swing quickly. If your fleet works through cold mornings, mountain routes, or long idle periods, air dryer maintenance should be part of your seasonal service checklist.

Drain Air Tanks Daily

Moisture in the lines can affect the entire air system, which is why air tanks should be drained daily, particularly during winter months. Doing so discharges moisture in the tanks before it can accumulate, reach the lines, and freeze.

You can also keep a bottle of airline antifreeze on hand. If the airlines are frozen, add airline antifreeze into the supply line and air up the trailer. Use airline antifreeze sparingly. More is not always better, and too much can cause long-term valve problems.

Book Preventative Maintenance Before the Cold Snap

Cold-weather problems are easier to prevent than they are to fix on the roadside. A seasonal inspection can check air dryers, drain valves, air tanks, lines, fittings, and related components before the first major cold snap.

If you need assistance with freeze-up prevention, Munden Truck & Equipment can help. Our team supports commercial truck and trailer operators throughout Kamloops and the BC Interior. Learn more about our Service Department or contact our Parts Department for parts support.