9 Tips For Preventing Heavy Equipment From Overheating in the Summer

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As the peak of summer approaches, many of us are trying to figure out how to stay cool. It’s not just humans and animals that face the risk of overheating; heavy equipment like excavators, bulldozers, and tractors can also suffer from heat-related damage without proper protection and maintenance. Equipment Trader is here with 9 valuable tips to help keep your heavy equipment running smoothly, even when the sun is blazing.

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1. Conduct daily inspections

Daily maintenance checks should take place during the summer to stay on top of your machine’s condition in the heat. Specifically, you should stay diligent about checking coolant and antifreeze levels. These fluids are critical components that keep your machine cool and lubricated during the warmer months. Also, be mindful of emergency signs that your machine is overheating. When this happens, work should be paused in order to avoid damage to the machine.

2. Store your equipment in the shade

When the sun is shining brightly, make sure you store your heavy equipment in a shaded area. This is one of the easiest and most straightforward ways to protect your machinery. If you don’t have a fully shaded parking section on the premises, a tarp or tent can go a long way towards protecting your machine’s longevity.

4. Work during cooler hours

Summer heat is the most intense during peak daylight hours. If you can avoid working during this time, your equipment will reap the benefits. Of course, it’s not always possible to pause work during the day, especially if you’re on the clock or a project is underway. Try to be mindful of heat warnings and advisories, and implement cooler working hours during those times.

5. Clean your equipment regularly

If your machine is dirty, the summer heat will make it even more difficult, or nearly impossible, to remove the dirt and debris without issue. This is especially true if your equipment is covered in mud, which can become caked onto the exterior. In addition, make sure that leaves and other debris are removed from radiators, cooling systems, and fans.

6. Monitor engine temperature

Engine temperature can become a big issue if it skyrockets and isn’t dealt with promptly. Some newer pieces of equipment come with a temperature gauge that alerts the operator when it rises above a certain temperature. If your equipment has this feature, use it. If not, be sure to manually check the temperature gauge throughout the day.

7. Reduce idle time

Too much idling can lead to overheating, especially in a hot, stifling climate. When your machine isn’t actively being used, turn off the engine to avoid dangerous heat buildup. If your equipment has an idle management system that will automatically shut down the engine after a period of inactivity, utilize this feature.

8. Establish an emergency cool-down protocol

Despite your best efforts, it’s entirely possible that you’re still going to have to eventually deal with an overheated engine. When this happens, it’s helpful to have an emergency cool-down protocol in place. This plan should outline how to safely cool down a piece of equipment in a crisis. Having this protocol ready to implement will prevent an operator from panicking during an emergency.

9. Upgrade cooling systems

If your equipment is frequently used in hot environments, it’s probably a wise investment to upgrade the cooling system. High performance radiators and upgraded cooling fans are two options that can provide better cooling and improved airflow. When the weather is hot, it’s wise to be proactive when it comes to your heavy equipment’s performance and safety.

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By following these tips and staying on top of your machine’s condition, you can make sure your heavy equipment runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come. Ready to upgrade or expand your equipment arsenal? Browse our extensive inventory on Equipment Trader and find the perfect machinery to keep you cool under pressure.