Winter is Coming, Be Prepared

Winter is around the corner, and for some of us that means frigid cold temperatures, snow, ice, and dreams of a vacation to someplace warm.

If you own construction machines, the looming winter also means you need to start thinking about getting your equipment ready.

Here are some ways you can keep your machines running at their best when the temperatures drop.

Get the right lubricants in your machine before it starts getting cold outside. The right fluids are of utmost importance when it comes to running your machine. Checking the levels is always important, but extra important when the weather gets cold.

Keep an eye on hydraulic hoses. When the temperatures drop, they are susceptible to cracking. To help prevent this, operate your machine so oil temperatures reach about 150℉. Continue running the machine for about an hour. Use arctic hydraulic oil for colder months to condition the hydraulic hoses.

When your machine is sitting, it is best to have it stored in a warm area if possible. At the very least, keep snow and ice off the machine. If you won't be using the machine during the winter months, take the attachments off and store them away. Always keep fluids and oils from freezing.

A block heater is a good way to help fire your engine up in cold weather. To help speed up the warm-up process, block the radiator to restrict cold air from the fan.

Cold weather puts a strain on batteries making them generate nearly twice the amps necessary to turn the engine over. Keep them charged and when in temperatures that drop below zero, you should store the batteries in a warmer area.

Keep all starting fluid at room temperature and inject it only while the engine is cranking.

Prevent the intake and exhaust valves from sticking by running your engine before operating the machine until it reaches operating temperature. Cycle through all of the machine’s functions to distribute warmed oil until they all operate with ease.

Cold temperatures will affect the air in your tires so check them before running the machine to be sure they have the correct PSI. If they need air, inflate them in a heated area.

Look over all the wires and hoses for excessive wear. Replace any that are damaged before parking the machine. Also, clean the undercarriage of dirt and debris before storage.

Avoid a frozen fuel tank by filling up at the end of each day and always drain the water from the water separator to prevent debris from getting into the fuel.

By paying attention to these simple areas of maintenance, you will prevent problems caused by cold temperatures and make it easier to operate your machine when the weather warms up in the spring.