Just to let you know, when its -30 or -40 or colder.... DO NOT use a chain for pulling yourself or someone else out. Use a strap, the metal becomes very brittle.(no one will use a chain around here in winter)

 

well, i've never been anywhere close to alaska, but depending on whether you're in timber or not?, i always carry a small to medium chainsaw in the tool box or in a rubbermaid container. sometimes trees blow down and an ax will work but a saw is quicker. this is only of any value if it will start and run, so you have to keep the gas in the tank fresh enough and crank it regularly.

i think i'd also carry a second sleeping bag. in the event that you're stuck somewhere for awhile, there's no need to protect the truck to -60 but yourself to only -10. also drinking water will stay frozen a lot of the time so there might be a freezable container that won't split.

 

Coffee can and few candles will also go a long long ways.

If your going to be out away from civilization you might as well toss a block and tackle in your chainsaw box and maybe a winch and/or come-a-long.

 

Cell phone, CB radio. Flare gun? some variety of communications. (not that I expect great cell coverage along the route.....)

 

Does the Cummins engine have an O2 sensor?

Good tip on using the chain. I always prefer pulling with a strap, but sometimes the chain is better for lashing logs, etc, together.

I'd be very concerned that a chain saw would not start or operate in that cold of weather.

 

My Stihl has always reliably started in sub-zero temperatures. It takes more pulls on the starting rope to do it, though.

When it's really very cold out, take steps to avoid white finger.