Preparing Your Motor Coach for Winter: What You Need to Know

But northern conditions demand preparation. A coach that performs well in summer can struggle in winter without the right equipment and configuration.

Here's what communities should know about winter-ready motor coaches.

Winter Preparation Essentials

Winter tires are the first priority.

Before anything else, make sure your motor coach has proper winter tires. This is the single most important factor in safe winter operation. Summer or all-season tires don't provide adequate traction in snow and ice conditions.

Drop-down chains for emergency situations:

If you haven't purchased your motor coach yet, we can equip it with drop-down chains. These are chains that the driver can deploy from inside the cab if the coach gets stuck. They provide emergency traction without the driver having to get out and manually install chains in freezing conditions.

Heavy-duty suspension package:

For communities operating on rougher roads or in extreme conditions, a heavy-duty suspension package provides better handling and durability. This includes upgraded shocks, stronger springs, and components rated for heavier use.

Pre-Purchase vs. Post-Purchase Options

This is important: Many winter features need to be specified before the coach is built.

If you try to add heavy-duty packages or drop-down chains after purchase, engineering has to get involved. It's a more extensive process that costs more money and takes the coach out of service.

The takeaway: If you know your community needs winter features, specify them during the purchase process—not after delivery.

Lead Time Considerations

Motor coaches aren't sitting on lots waiting to be purchased. Most are built to order.

Current lead times:

• Standard coach with common options: 3–6 months
• Coach with custom features or heavy-duty packages: 6–12 months

If you need a winter-ready coach for next winter road season, the conversation should start now. Waiting until fall means you're likely looking at delivery the following year.

Winter Operating Considerations

Beyond equipment, winter operation requires attention to:

1. Pre-trip inspections:

Check tire pressure (cold weather reduces pressure), fluid levels, and heating system function before every trip.

2. Fuel management:

Keep tanks full to prevent condensation and fuel line freeze-up. Use winter-blend diesel if available.

3. Block heater use:

Plug in the block heater when the coach is parked overnight. Starting a cold engine in -30°C puts enormous stress on components.

4. Driver training:

Winter driving requires different techniques. Make sure your drivers are trained and comfortable operating in snow and ice conditions.

5. Route planning:

Know road conditions before departure. Have contingency plans if conditions deteriorate.

MCI J4500: Winter-Ready Features

The MCI J4500—our most popular motor coach for First Nations communities—comes with several features well-suited to northern conditions:

• Auxiliary Hydronic M12 heater (42,000 BTU) — Maintains engine and cabin temperature in extreme cold
• Heated mirrors — Essential for visibility in winter
• MCI Dynamic Suspension System — Provides stability in challenging conditions
• Stainless steel frame — Resists corrosion from road salt

Additional winter options available at order:

• Winter tire package
• Drop-down chain system
• Heavy-duty suspension upgrade
• Enhanced cold-weather battery system

Questions to Ask Before Purchasing

If your community is considering a motor coach, ask:

1. What winter package options are available?
2. What's the lead time for a coach with our specifications?
3. Can drop-down chains be factory-installed?
4. What's included in the heavy-duty suspension package?
5. What winter tires are recommended for our conditions?
6. What operator training is included?

The answers will help you make an informed decision—and ensure you receive a coach that's ready for your conditions.