7 Tips to Prepare your Heavy Equipment for Winter
August 27, 2021
Avoid unscheduled downtime and get your fleet ready for colder temperatures
Don’t let winter sneak up on you. Mitigate the stress of colder temperatures on your equipment and get the proper maintenance and servicing to maintain top performance. Not sure where to begin? Our service experts put together these top 7 winter maintenance tips to help get you started.
1. Use Hydraulic Oils and Engines Oils Specifically Designed for Cold Weather
Switch to oils formulated for colder weather to improve the performance of your heavy equipment.
2. Clean your Equipment
Debris left unattended can result in various issues under freezing temperatures. Not only do you risk the exterior of your machine getting worn down by salt and dirt, but if dirt freezes in your tracks, it can leave your machine immobile.
3. Thoroughly Inspect All Rubber Parts
In cold temperatures, parts such as hoses, tires, drive belts, and electrical wiring are at higher risk of damage. To maintain your equipment performance, check for cracks and tears on a weekly basis. We also recommend you carry spare seals, rubber mounts, hoses, and fittings for crucial repairs.
4. Perform a Filter Check
Inspect fuel filters to ensure they are clean and functioning properly. Air filters should be replaced to prevent any unexpected engine issues caused by contaminated air.
5. Do a Coolant Check
To protect your engine from freezing, scale and corrosion, coolant is crucial in the winter. Use the appropriate coolant and concentration for colder weather for your machine.
6. Inspect your Equipment Heaters
Keep working comfortably though the winter. Ensure your equipment heaters are functional and equipped before the cold weather hits.
7. Check your Battery
And last but not least, we recommend you perform a battery inspection. This involves ensuring the battery holds its charge, the electrolyte levels are at the full mark, fully charging your batteries, and cleaning them off.
At Westerra Equipment, we want to help you get your heavy equipment ready for this winter. Trust our team of factory-trained service technicians to perform all recommended winter maintenance to keep your equipment working at peak performance all season long.
Speak to a member of your local service department today to book your next service appointment.