On this episode of Maintenance Matters on Road Gang Radio, host Jimmy Mac is joined by Kevin Lindsey of TravelCenters of America for a practical, no-nonsense conversation about driving safely on icy winter roads and the maintenance details drivers often overlook.

Kevin and Jimmy break down why icy conditions demand more than just slowing down—and why tires, pressure, tread depth, and even the air inside your tires can make the difference between staying upright or losing control. The discussion covers real-world scenarios drivers face when moving from warm climates into freezing conditions, and what to check before hitting slick roads.

Topics include:

Why driving on ice should be avoided whenever possible

The importance of drive tires over steer tires in winter traction

Why uneven tire pressure on duals reduces grip on ice

How cold temperatures lower tire pressure and stiffen rubber

What happens when moisture inside tires freezes

Why “rock-hard” tires lose traction in winter conditions

How to safely break ice loose before rolling

Why gentle throttle input matters on icy starts

When chaining makes sense—and when it doesn’t

How over-inflating tires in cold weather creates new risks

Simple checks drivers can do to evaluate traction before committing to bad roads

Kevin explains how traction really works on heavy trucks, why the rear axles provide stability, and how even small maintenance decisions can have serious consequences in winter weather. This episode is essential listening for drivers, owner-operators, and fleet managers navigating cold-weather operations.

Maintenance Matters airs weekly on Road Gang Radio and is brought to you by TravelCenters of America.

Learn more about TravelCenters of America:

https://www.ta-petro.com

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