Cold Weather Is on the Way: Tips to Keep Your Fleet in Top Condition

Whether you're going to store your machines or use them to work through the winter, you want to make sure that when you're ready to use a machine, it's ready to go. Failing to follow recommended winter maintenance can result in damaged components and unexpected repair bills.

For winter storage: remove attachments and store at room temperature, lubricate with high-viscosity lubricant, drain all liquids including fuel, remove the battery and store it at room temperature, and label stored equipment as not ready for use.

For working in winter: install correct lubricants for the temperature range, condition hydraulic hoses with arctic hydraulic oil, use block heaters to fire up engines, keep batteries fully charged and warm, and always run the engine until it reaches operating temperature before beginning work.

Ensure tires are properly inflated at the beginning of every shift. Schedule an undercarriage inspection before the ground freezes. Store Diesel Exhaust Fluid properly -- DEF freezes at prolonged exposure to 12 degrees F or lower. Always fill the fuel tank at the end of a shift to avoid a frozen fuel tank in the morning.