How to Winterize Your Heavy Equipment

Steps to Winterize Your Heavy Equipment

Inspect and Clean Your Equipment

Before the first frost, thoroughly inspect and clean your equipment. Dirt, grease, and grime can trap moisture, which leads to rust and corrosion during winter. Pay special attention to:

• Undercarriage: Remove mud and debris to prevent ice buildup.
• Attachments: Clean buckets, blades, and augers to avoid frozen materials.

For models like the CASE 580N Backhoe Loader or the CASE TR340B Compact Track Loader, ensure you’ve inspected all pivot points, joints, and hydraulic components.

Change Fluids and Use Winter-Grade Products

Cold temperatures can thicken fluids, leading to sluggish performance or even damage. Switch to winter-grade fluids where applicable:

• Engine Oil: Use a viscosity grade suitable for colder climates, as the owner’s manual recommends.
• Hydraulic Fluid: Ensure your hydraulic fluid is rated for low temperatures. Takeuchi’s compact excavators, such as the TB260, rely heavily on hydraulic performance, so this step is crucial.
• Fuel: Use winter-blended diesel fuel to prevent gelling. Additives can also help reduce condensation in the fuel tank.

Remember to check and top off coolant levels, ensuring they’re in the correct mixture to prevent freezing.

Protect Your Battery

Batteries lose efficiency as temperatures drop, making it harder for your equipment to start. To keep your batteries in top shape:

• Inspect for Corrosion: Clean terminals and ensure connections are tight.
• Test Voltage: A weak battery won’t last through the winter.
• Use a Battery Warmer: A battery warmer can make starting easier in extreme cold.

CASE models, like the CASE SV280 Skid Steer, benefit from reliable battery performance to power through tough winter tasks.

Grease Moving Parts

Cold weather can cause grease to harden, reducing its effectiveness. Switch to a low-temperature grease and ensure all moving parts are adequately lubricated. Focus on:

• Pins
• Bushings
• Bearings

The CASE SR210B Skid Steer Loader, known for its versatility and robust design, benefits significantly from proper lubrication during winter.

Inspect Tires and Tracks

Tires and tracks are vital for maintaining traction and stability in icy conditions. For rubber tracks, such as those on the Takeuchi TL8 Compact Track Loader, check for:

• Proper tension
• Damage or wear
• Adequate tread depth

For wheeled equipment, ensure tires are inflated to the correct pressure, as cold weather can cause pressure to drop.

Prepare the Cooling System

The cooling system prevents your engine from overheating but must also be protected from freezing in winter. Key steps include:

• Testing the antifreeze for the correct mixture.
• Inspecting hoses and clamps for leaks or wear.
• Ensuring the radiator is clean and free of debris.

A well-maintained cooling system ensures efficient operation for equipment like the CASE 721G Wheel Loader during snow removal and other cold-weather tasks.

Store Equipment Properly

When equipment isn’t in use, store it in a sheltered area, such as a heated garage or storage facility. If indoor storage isn’t possible:

• Use weatherproof covers to protect from snow and ice.
• Park on level ground and apply brakes to prevent movement.
• Avoid parking on wet or soft surfaces to prevent freezing to the ground.

Prepare for Quick Startups

Cold starts can strain your engine. To make startup easier:

• Use an engine block heater to preheat the engine.
• Allow the machine to idle for a few minutes to circulate fluids before operation.

These precautions can extend engine life and improve performance for compact equipment like the Toro Dingo TXL 2000.

Keep a Maintenance Schedule

Winter weather can expose or worsen existing problems. Stick to a regular maintenance schedule to address issues before they escalate. Luby Equipment Services offers maintenance programs tailored to your needs, ensuring your equipment is always job-ready.