Winter is coming faster than we would care to admit. If you are a heavy equipment owner, you know that properly maintaining your equipment is vital to extending its lifespan and keeping it running at peak condition. This is especially important as we enter winter, where the equipment might sit idle for a longer period of time than normal.
One important factor is to install the proper lubricants and hydraulic hoses to your equipment before they are stored. When you are filling the fluids, make sure they are all properly filled, to help ensure that everything will run as smoothly as possible come spring. Bypassing this step could lead to heavy equipment repair for you after the winter, as these fluids and lubricants will help protect against the pressure and elements the winter can bring.
Hopefully, you have already considered where you will store the heavy equipment you own. Make sure to have an enclosed storage facility, ideally where the fluids will be kept at room temperature. This helps make sure you don’t have any snow to brush off, and will make it easier to start back up. If your equipment has any attachments, detach them to avoid any damage occurring to hinges or joints. If you are starting your equipment up again, use a block heater to fire up the engine.
You also should pay special attention to keeping the batteries fully charged and warm, which can help make for an easy start. If the temperatures get especially cold, you may even consider storing the battery indoors at room temperature when not in use. When you do start your equipment, run the engine until it reaches operating temperature before working, which can help prevent the valves from sticking and help the machine properly distribute the oil everywhere it is needed.
Before storing your heavy equipment, be sure to give it a thorough visual inspection. Used construction equipment lasts much longer if problems are dealt with while they are small. Be on the lookout for any cracks, cuts, or worn spots on belts, hoses, and tires. These are the types of small problems that become bigger problems if left to sit throughout the winter. It may also be a good idea to schedule an undercarriage inspection before the end of the season.
Finally, fill the fuel tank at the end of the last shift, as a frozen fuel tank can cause you major issues and headaches at the start of the day or start of spring. Make sure the fuel tank is clear of any debris, sediment, or water, which will help everything run more smoothly.
By taking these types of simple precautions, your heavy equipment will be prepared for the winter, which will keep it running smoothly when you need it and extend its life! If you are looking for heavy equipment for sale, contact us at May Heavy Equipment today. We offer new and used equipment for sale or rent all across the Southeast.
