Winter Prepping Your QTAC Skid: Get It Right Before It’s Too Cold

Published on:  

December 30, 2024

Winter is here, and if you’ve been around long enough, you know it’s not just about keeping warm – it’s about keeping your gear in prime shape. I’ll tell you this: your QTAC skid needs attention before the temperatures drop. This isn’t just maintenance – it’s prepping to make sure your rig’s ready when it matters most. Here’s how you get it done right.

1. Drain the Water, All of It

If there’s one thing I can’t stress enough, it’s clearing out every bit of water from your QTAC skid. Water left sitting in the lines or pump is an invitation for freezing, which can lead to cracks, blockages, and costly repairs. Open every drain, and get that skid bone-dry.

2. Use the Right Antifreeze

Not all antifreeze is created equal, and not all are safe for firefighting equipment. Use a non-toxic, propylene glycol-based antifreeze that’s compatible with firefighting systems. You’re not just keeping things from freezing – you’re making sure the skid’s internals are ready for the next season without corrosion or pump damage.

3. Shelter and Store

When it’s parked for the season, give your QTAC skid the respect it deserves. Find a dry, covered spot to protect it from the elements. Direct exposure to snow, rain, and wind can wear down the exterior, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles are brutal on hoses and fittings.

4. Inspect Hoses, Fittings, and Components

Winter downtime is a prime opportunity to check the skid’s “blood vessels” – those hoses and fittings that keep water moving. Look for cracks, stiffness, or any signs of damage. Replace what’s needed, and don’t leave it for spring. Winter preps now mean less headache later.

5. Charge and Test the Battery

A dead battery will get you nowhere fast. Charge it, test it, and give it the once-over. Batteries tend to suffer in cold weather, so keeping it maintained now will make sure it’s ready to fire up the skid in the spring.

Why It Matters

A well-prepped skid isn’t just a piece of equipment – it’s a lifeline in the field. Winterize it right, and it’ll be ready when you are, no matter what next season throws your way. Watch our detailed Winter Prepping Video for a full walkthrough to get it set up right.

Partners
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