Seasonal Operation Readiness Checklist International Trucks (Winter & Summer)

Seasonal Preparation Overview

International Trucks operate in diverse climates and conditions that can place different demands on vehicle systems throughout the year. This comprehensive checklist provides guidance for preparing your International Truck fleet for optimal performance, reliability, and safety during both winter and summer operations.

Seasonal maintenance and preparation can significantly reduce breakdowns, extend component life, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance safety. Use this checklist to transition between seasons and ensure your trucks are ready for the specific challenges of extreme temperatures.

Winter Preparation

Summer Preparation

Winter Preparation Checklist

Complete these preparation tasks before cold weather operation to ensure reliability and safety during winter conditions.

Fuel System Winterization

Switch to winter-blend diesel fuel or #1 diesel in extreme cold
Add appropriate anti-gel fuel additive at recommended ratio
Replace fuel filters before winter season
Drain water separator completely
Check fuel water separator heater operation
Inspect fuel lines for cracks or deterioration
Test fuel heater functionality (if equipped)
Maintain fuel tanks at least half full to minimize condensation

Note: For International A26 engines, use only OEM-approved winter fuel additives to maintain warranty coverage. Cold filter plugging point should be at least 10°F below expected operating temperatures.

Battery and Electrical System

Load test all batteries (min. 800 CCA per battery)
Clean terminals and connections to eliminate resistance
Check electrolyte levels in non-sealed batteries
Apply battery terminal protectant
Inspect battery cables for fraying or corrosion
Test charging system output (13.8-14.5V)
Check battery box drain holes for blockage
Install battery blanket or heater in extreme cold areas

Note: Battery capacity decreases significantly in cold temperatures. At 0°F, a battery may deliver only 50% of its rated capacity compared to 77°F performance.

Engine and Block Heater

Test block heater operation and electrical draw
Inspect block heater cord for damage or wear
Ensure weatherproof connection to power source
Check oil viscosity for winter operation (typically 5W-30)
Inspect engine belts for cracks or glazing
Check glow plug operation (if equipped)
Test engine preheater system (if equipped)
Program block heater timer for cold starts

Note: For International trucks with Cummins engines, ensure block heater is operational before temperatures drop below 20°F to prevent cold-start issues and potential engine damage.

Cooling System

Test coolant freeze protection level (min. -30°F)
Check coolant concentration (45-60% antifreeze)
Test SCA (Supplemental Coolant Additives) levels
Pressure test cooling system for leaks
Inspect all hoses for cracks or softness
Check radiator cap pressure rating
Clean radiator fins to remove debris
Test thermostat operation at correct temperature

Note: International recommends extended life coolant (ELC) for MaxxForce and A26 engines. Never mix ELC with conventional coolants, as this can cause cooling system issues.

Air System Winterization

Test air dryer heater operation
Replace air dryer desiccant cartridge
Drain all air tanks completely
Check alcohol evaporator or air system antifreeze injection
Inspect air lines for damage or proper routing
Test automatic drain valves for proper function
Check air system purge valve operation
Ensure gladhand seals are in good condition

Note: International trucks with Bendix air dryers should be checked for proper purge valve operation. If moisture is found in air tanks, inspect the air dryer for issues before winter operation.

HVAC System

Test heater output temperature and fan speeds
Check heater core for leaks
Inspect defroster operation and airflow
Clean heater box and ducts
Replace cabin air filter
Check blower motor operation
Test heated mirrors (if equipped)
Verify window and door seal integrity

Note: For International LT and RH Series trucks with automatic temperature control, perform a system calibration after seasonal maintenance to ensure proper operation.

Tire and Traction Preparation

Check tire tread depth (min. 6/32" for winter)
Inspect tires for weather checking and damage
Adjust tire pressure for cold temperatures
Verify proper tire chain fit before needed
Store emergency traction aids (sand, mats)
Check differential lock operation
Consider switch to winter tread compound tires
Inspect mud flaps for flexibility in freezing temps

Note: Cold temperatures decrease tire pressure. For every 10°F drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases by approximately 1 PSI. Check and adjust pressure when tires are cold.

Winter Emergency Equipment

Stock emergency blankets/sleeping bag
Include extra warm clothing and boots
Pack high-calorie emergency food rations
Store properly rated snow shovel
Include ice scraper and snow brush
Pack chemical heat packs for emergencies
Include winter-grade windshield washer fluid
Store emergency communication equipment

Note: International recommends maintaining supplies for a minimum of 72 hours in case of winter road closures or breakdowns in remote areas.

Winter Visibility Systems

Replace wiper blades with winter-specific blades
Fill washer fluid with winter-rated fluid (-20°F or lower)
Clean all lights and reflectors
Check headlight aim and brightness
Test foglights (if equipped)
Ensure all marker lights are functional
Clean and test mirror heaters
Apply anti-fog treatment to interior glass

Note: Winter wipers with protective boots prevent ice and snow buildup on wiper linkage, reducing the risk of wiper failure during winter operations.

Summer Preparation Checklist

Complete these preparation tasks before hot weather operation to ensure reliability and safety during summer conditions.

Cooling System Optimization

Pressure test cooling system for leaks
Check coolant level and condition
Clean radiator fins thoroughly
Test cooling fan operation (mechanical or electric)
Inspect fan clutch for proper engagement
Check radiator cap pressure rating
Test thermostat opening temperature
Verify water pump operation and bearing condition

Note: Cooling system efficiency can decrease by up to 40% when radiator fins are clogged with debris. International recommends professional radiator cleaning annually before summer operation.

Air Conditioning System

Check refrigerant level and condition
Test A/C output temperature (should be 30-45°F below ambient)
Inspect A/C compressor operation
Check drive belt condition and tension
Clean condenser fins
Test A/C controls and actuators
Inspect A/C lines for leaks or damage
Replace cabin air filter

Note: International ProStar and LT Series have dual climate systems that require both evaporators to be checked for proper operation to ensure consistent cooling throughout the cab.

Engine Heat Management

Check engine oil level and condition
Consider higher viscosity oil for extreme heat (per manufacturer specs)
Inspect heat shields for damage or missing components
Test cooling fan override switch (if equipped)
Check EGR cooler function
Inspect exhaust system for leaks or restrictions
Verify charge air cooler for leaks or restrictions
Remove winter front or grille covers

Note: International A26 engines have specific cooling requirements. Follow OEM specifications for coolant concentration in high-temperature environments to prevent engine damage.

Tire and Brake Heat Management

Check tire pressure when cold (increase by 5 PSI for sustained high temps)
Inspect tires for signs of heat damage or wear
Check wheel bearing lubrication
Test brake operation for dragging or binding
Inspect brake components for heat damage
Verify brake cooling airflow paths are clear
Check brake fluid level and condition (hydraulic systems)
Test air brake system for proper operation

Note: Tire pressure increases as temperature rises. For every 10°F increase in temperature, tire pressure increases by approximately 1 PSI. Set pressure when tires are cold based on load and ambient temperature.

Electrical System Heat Protection

Test battery condition and charge level
Check battery electrolyte level (non-sealed batteries)
Clean battery terminals and connections
Inspect alternator output under load
Check starter for heat-related issues
Inspect all electrical connections for corrosion
Test cooling system for electrical components
Verify proper operation of electronic control modules

Note: Battery life can be significantly reduced in high-temperature environments. International recommends heat shields for batteries in trucks operating in ambient temperatures consistently above 100°F.

Fuel System Heat Management

Replace fuel filters
Check fuel cooler operation (if equipped)
Inspect fuel lines for heat damage or deterioration
Test fuel pump performance
Check for vapor lock in hot conditions
Ensure proper venting of fuel system
Inspect fuel tank for proper mounting and heat shielding
Test for fuel system restrictions

Note: International trucks with MaxxForce engines may require specific cooling system maintenance to prevent fuel system heat-related issues during summer operation.

Cab and Body Heat Protection

Apply UV protectant to dashboard and interior surfaces
Check windshield for chips that could spread in heat
Install window sun visors or tinting (if permitted)
Test window regulators and mechanisms
Ensure door seals are intact to maintain cooling
Check sleeper ventilation system
Test auxiliary power unit for sleeper cooling
Install heat reflective windshield cover for parking

Note: International's ProStar and LT Series with sleeper berths have auxiliary HVAC systems that should be maintained separately from the main system for optimal summer comfort.

Summer Emergency Preparation

Stock extra drinking water
Include sunscreen and sun protection
Pack cooling towels for heat emergencies
Stock basic first aid kit with heat-related treatments
Include reflective window shades for extended stops
Store extra coolant appropriate for your engine
Pack battery-powered fans for emergency cooling
Include insulated cooler for temperature-sensitive items

Note: When operating in extreme heat environments, drivers should maintain hydration and use cooling methods to prevent heat-related illness during loading, unloading, and maintenance operations.

Seasonal Transition Procedures

Follow these procedures when transitioning between winter and summer operations to ensure proper adaptation to changing weather conditions.

Winter to Summer Transition

Remove and store tire chains and traction devices
Disconnect and store battery warmers
Remove winter front or grille covers
Switch from winter-blend to summer-blend diesel
Discontinue use of anti-gel fuel additives
Thoroughly wash undercarriage to remove road salt
Check suspension components for salt corrosion
Replace winter wiper blades with standard blades
Clean and flush cooling system if needed
Test air conditioning system before hot weather
Adjust tire pressure for summer temperatures
Remove emergency winter survival gear

Note: Perform this transition when nighttime temperatures consistently remain above freezing and the forecast shows no significant winter weather events.

Summer to Winter Transition

Test and connect block heaters
Replace wiper blades with winter-specific blades
Begin using winter-blend diesel or additives
Install winter front or grille covers as needed
Install battery warmers if necessary
Test all heating systems thoroughly
Check and service air dryer
Verify defrost system operation
Adjust tire pressure for winter temperatures
Check antifreeze protection level
Fit and test tire chains
Stock winter emergency supplies

Note: Begin this transition when overnight temperatures approach freezing or approximately 2-3 weeks before the first expected freezing temperatures in your operating area.

Temperature-Based Preparation Guide

Use this table as a guide for implementing specific preparation steps based on expected operating temperatures.

Expected Temperatures	Critical Systems	Recommended Actions
Below -20°F (-29°C)	Fuel, Starting, Heating	Use #1 Diesel or winter blend, battery heaters required, block heater essential, fuel anti-gel additives at maximum concentration
-20°F to 0°F (-29°C to -18°C)	Fuel, Battery, Air System	Winter diesel blend, ensure block heater operation, air dryer service critical, extra starting batteries recommended
0°F to 32°F (-18°C to 0°C)	Fuel, Cooling, Air System	Winter fuel additives, verify antifreeze protection, alcohol injection for air system, proper tire pressure
32°F to 70°F (0°C to 21°C)	Transition Range	Moderate preparations, regular maintenance adequate, monitor weather forecasts for changes
70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C)	Cooling, A/C, Tires	Verify cooling system operation, test A/C performance, check tire pressure when cold
90°F to 100°F (32°C to 38°C)	Cooling, Electrical, A/C	Clean radiator thoroughly, check fan clutch operation, verify A/C refrigerant level, monitor battery condition
Above 100°F (38°C)	Cooling, Engine, Electrical	Maximum cooling system efficiency required, additional idle time for cool down, battery heat shields, extra cooling for electronic components

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