Heavy Equipment Winter Maintenance Tips

Do you have plenty of construction work this Winter? Or perhaps a fleet of snowplows that MUST be in immaculate working order for heavy snow? During these cold months, you can do several things to keep your heavy equipment running smoothly.

Here are a few tips to keep any equipment related setback at bay.  After all, mid-project delays can be costly for you, your employer and/or your client.

1- Keep your engine lubricated

Properly grease all areas to prevent moisture from building up. Remember to use low-temp lube as recommended by manufacturers. 

With low temperatures, your engine oil may thicken and force your engine parts to work harder to move through it. To avoid adding “stress” to your engine, switch your oil to a 5W-40 synthetic oil, which works well in cold temperatures, as does a 10W-30 or 15W-40 multi-grade oil. 

If you need help trying to find the right oil for your engine, click here.

2- Check your battery

You should be checking your battery daily as you inspect your equipment before and after using it. Your battery terminals need to be free of debris and rust, otherwise, sooner, rather than later, you will have a dead battery on your hands.

To keep your batteries functioning at full capacity, follow these steps:

• Replace old batteries
• Allow your battery to heat up to at least 40 degrees before using your equipment.
• DO NOT charge or jump-start a frozen battery.
• Store equipment indoors.

3- Keep proper tire pressure

Just like a car, tire pressure drops with the temperature. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure may decrease by one pound per square inch (psi). 

If you have the option, try to use track-mounted equipment instead of tire-mounted equipment.

4- Protect your diesel tank

Our best recommendation is to add a fuel treatment and keep your tank full. So, make sure you fill your diesel tank at the end of each day to decrease moisture and water build-up. 

5- Perform daily inspections and store equipment inside

The key to properly maintain anything is to perform daily inspections. After a day of work, make sure you clean up your gear and make a short inspection. Fill up your equipment fluids and store the equipment inside. 

While going through your cleaning/inspection, if you find you need a replacement part or have a hard-to-find piece you’re having trouble tracking down, let us know, and we would be happy to help. Click here to contact us.