A Guide to Winterizing Heavy Machinery

The harsh conditions of winter can be hard on heavy machinery. To keep your equipment in top shape, use the following steps for winterizing heavy machinery in Texas.

Preparing for winter

• Lubricate: Freezing temperatures make it harder than usual for moving parts to operate smoothly. Make sure all systems are properly lubricated as you head into winter. This includes the transmission, engine and hydraulic systems. Check the lubricant levels and quality for each.
• Filter: Check your filters at the start of the season and replace if necessary. This will prevent issues with engine starting and power loss. Be sure to include the air filters, hydraulic filters and fuel filters in this aspect of winterizing heavy machinery in Texas.
• Inspect: Hoses are often susceptible to cracking during cold temperatures. Before the mercury drops, check the condition of your hoses. If they seem to be nearing the end of their lifespan, go ahead and change them to reduce the risk of equipment failure during the winter.
• Store: If possible, store your machinery indoors during the winter, or at least in a sheltered area. This will protect the equipment from the elements, which also makes it easier to access and start. It can also extend the life of the battery.

Care during winter

• Inspection: Before using your heavy equipment during the winter, perform a thorough inspection to ensure it is ready for use.
• Refilling: After each winter use, prepare machinery for its next operation. Refill the fuel tank to prevent the formation of ice in the tank. Check antifreeze levels and add more after the engine has cooled, if needed.
• Tires: Check the tire pressure frequently. Clear snow away from the tires if the equipment is not in use, to prevent the equipment from freezing in place.
• Battery: If the machine won’t be used at all for the winter, remove the battery. Store batteries indoors to protect them from freezing temperatures. This is also a good practice if the heavy equipment will be used infrequently throughout the winter.
• Exterior: Keep in mind that road salts can take their toll on equipment. If you use heavy machinery during the winter, rinse it off after each job to wash away any salt and dirt. Don’t forget the undercarriage. This will help prevent corrosion to both the exterior components and the interior systems of your machinery.
• Warmup: Before operating heavy machinery during the winter, allow the equipment to warm up. This allows the fluids to circulate and reduces shock to the systems, which reduces the risk of damaged components. Taking time for this warmup will increase efficiency and safety and improve the overall performance of the machine.

The winter experts

For assistance with winterizing heavy equipment in Texas, please contact the experts at V-Bar Equipment Company. Our specialties include forklifts, forklift telehandlers, boom lifts, scissor lifts, heavy equipment, parts, pallet jacks and more. Our excellent staff is here to answer any question you may have, so stop in or give us a call today. We look forward to assisting you soon.

Categorised in: Winterization

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