Though the weather outside may be frightful, your construction equipment will likely not find a fire so delightful – instead, it’s important to make sure you are properly maintaining your equipment through the winter months. Tire maintenance, fluid checks, and lubrication of parts become extra important in the colder, damper months where exposure to the elements becomes an issue. Equipment Trader has some winter maintenance tips for you to keep your construction equipment in good shape throughout the winter.
Regular Equipment Inspections
Regardless of the season, your construction equipment should have regular scheduled maintenance to ensure that it stays in good working condition throughout the year. In the winter months, just like in the summer months, extreme temperatures can increase the need for certain maintenance tasks. In snowy conditions where the ground becomes muddy, or where road salt is used, maintenance becomes much more important.
Check components like your battery terminals and consider using a battery heater or insulation cover to maintain battery efficiency. Check all areas including intake and exhaust valves for wear, look for cracks and damage, and check all moving parts to ensure that they are properly lubricated for the chillier weather.
When inspecting construction equipment, do not forget to include the undercarriage in your checklist, as mud and grime can build up over time, causing damage. Ensure that brushings, idlers, rollers, pins, and shoes are all free of damage and debris.
Tire Maintenance and Upgrades
Tire and track maintenance during the winter months is crucial as it ensures good traction and stability in wintery conditions. Keep tire pressure at the recommended levels to maintain traction and load-bearing capacity. Inspecting tires regularly for wear and replacing them promptly will save you money in the long run.
For areas most impacted by winter conditions, winter tires are an option that will improve grip on snow and ice. In regions that experience higher levels of snowfall, tire chains provide more traction to prevent slippage.
Maintain Fluid Levels
Cold weather can greatly impact your construction equipment’s fluid systems. Seals and joints can be affected by temperature-related expansion and shrinkage. Fluid viscosity can likewise be affected by temperature and will require time to warm up and flow smoothly, so allowing equipment sufficient time to warm up before use is important.
It is also important to keep an eye on your coolant system – despite the cooler temperatures, your engine can still overheat if not properly cooled. During most of the year, a 50/50 coolant/water mix is best, but in extremely cold climates, a 70/30 ratio is the recommended mixture.
In addition to oil and coolant levels, it is important to also inspect hydraulic, brake, and transmission fluids to ensure that they are at the proper levels and viscosity.
Maintain Fuel Tank Levels
Because lower temperatures can cause moisture and impurities to clog your fuel filter and fuel injection system failure, it’s important to stay on top of fuel tank maintenance during colder weather. It’s advised that you keep your fuel tank full much of the time to reduce condensation in the tank. All caps and vents should be checked for a good seal, as well.
Cold-weather fuel treatment is recommended to help eliminate excess moisture from your fuel system, prevent frost in filters, and keep your fuel from gelling. Keeping extra fuel filters on hand is also a good idea in case of a freeze-up.
Proper Storage Procedures
When not using your construction equipment during the colder months, proper storage and shutdown procedures are essential.
Clean equipment completely and ensure that it is completely dry before storing. If out in the elements, cover equipment completely, making sure that you add a rust inhibitor or protective coating over any part that might be particularly vulnerable to damage from the elements.
If you intend to store your equipment through the winter months. Consider draining the fuel tank to prevent freezing from condensation and corrosion. Remove and properly store your battery and make sure that all components are clean and protected before you store your equipment.
Snow and Ice Removal Equipment
If you live in an area that experiences significant snowfall, consider purchasing specialized attachments for your construction equipment for easier snow and ice removal.
Plows, snow blowers, salt spreaders, and other winterizing equipment will not only protect your equipment, but also make getting to work and completing that work a quicker, less stressful task.
Prepare for Emergencies
It’s best to be prepared for any situation that might arise, especially in extreme weather conditions. Having emergency tools for jump starts, tire repairs, and other emergencies will make these situations far less stressful.
A first aid kit, extra flashlights and batteries, and emergency communication devices are also recommended, especially in the more extreme conditions where first responders might not have easy access to your location due to ice and snow.
Preparing your construction equipment for colder temperatures ahead of time will ensure a much easier transition into the winter months and will save you unnecessary repair costs that might arise from lack of preparedness.
