For many of us, winter weather doesn’t mean that working on our cars will have to wait until the following spring. We do-it-yourselfers will brave the cold to carry out maintenance work because it still needs to get done.
Working Outside in the Winter
It’s easy, however, to underestimate how long a certain job will take. For instance, you might feel confident that replacing rear brake pads will require no more than 45 minutes—only to realize you’ve spent 15 minutes simply attempting to free a carrier bolt.
Instead of suffering in the cold, you might as well be comfortable and safe. Here are a few useful tips that will help keep your fingers from freezing (and your temper from flaring up!).
Insulated winter work gloves
Your hands are precious and fragile. Protecting them from injury and the elements is a must. That’s why it’s important to invest in a good pair (or two) of work gloves, such as NAPA’s winter utility gloves.
They feature touch screen–compatible fingers, so you can pause the how-to video you’re watching on your phone as you work.
Hand warmers, foot warmers, toe warmers
In a situation where the job ends up taking far longer than anticipated, hand and foot warmers are a blessing. At one point or another, you’ll need to take a break. This will be a perfect opportunity to slip some Olympia hand warmers into your gloves. You can find similar warmers for your boots and socks.
Propane heater tank, portable heater
If you don’t have a warm garage to work in, a portable heater can serve as your own little sun. There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars on one. If you have a BBQ, simply attach a Mr. Heater tank top heater to a propane tank and use it to warm up. Alternatively, if you work in a non-heated shed, for example, a portable heater such as the Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy portable heater will do the job. It packs enough BTUs to make an up to 300-square-foot shelter perfectly comfortable.
Garage floor creepers
If a job requires getting under your vehicle, it’s a good idea to isolate your body from the cold floor. One cheap solution is to use cardboard, but the best option is a good floor creeper. Many are low-profile enough to use under an SUV without lifting it off the ground. Some even have an adjustable headrest for more comfort.
Keep moving
If you’re working outside and about to take out the torch to deal with that stubborn carrier bolt, try getting up and walking around for a few minutes to help regain your composure. The physical activity will also warm you up, loosen up your joints, and get your blood pumping.
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