Machine Winterization
Ensure that your machine will be ready for winter
Ensure coolant is in good condition
Make sure that your coolant complies with ASTM standard D-621 and has a low enough freezing point for your climate. Frozen coolant can crack your engine block and ruin your engine. A 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze protects the cooling system to -34°F.
Use fuel conditioner
Fuel conditioner helps your engine start in the cold by preventing your fuel from gelling. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the required amount of conditioner and make sure to match fuel conditioner to the type of fuel you’re using (e.g. low sulfur).
Check the fuel filter
A clogged fuel filter can cause moisture to build up and freeze in the winter, preventing your machine from running properly or starting. Before cold weather arrives, empty the filters’ water traps. Keep an extra set of fuel filters in your cab to avoid downtime.
Check cold start aids
To help the engine start in cold weather, diesel engines spray ether into the air system. If your machine is older and has an ether spray bottle, check the bottle to ensure it isn’t empty. New machines have an automatic ether system, but make sure to inspect connections and hoses for cracks or loose connections.
Check the block heater
Block heaters keep fluids at the correct temperature and viscosity. The oil can thicken if it’s not working, making it harder to turn the engine over and adding stress to the battery. To check your block heater, plug it in and then touch the hoses to make sure they are warm.
Inspect air pre-cleaners
Debris and dust can build up during the summer and should be removed. Otherwise, snow and ice could collect around them and add moisture into the air system, which could cause engine failure.
Check battery and connections
As corrosion builds around battery connections less voltage is transmitted and strain on the battery increases. Corroded connections can drain the battery and prevent your machine from starting. Reduce the chance of having a drained battery with periodic inspections for corrosions.
Winter Storage
Top off the fuel tank if possible
Leave diesel engines completely full during winter months to eliminate the possibility of condensation forming in the fuel tank and spreading. Condensation can clog the fuel filter, which in turn can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and injectors.
Run the engine after cleaning
After cleaning your machine’s engine and replacing the oil, run your machine to form a protective film of oil over internal parts. This coating acts as a rust preventative.
Clean and fully charge batteries, then disconnect power leads
Never store discharged lead acid batteries in freezing temperatures. The electrolyte will freeze and crack the internal cells of the battery.
Start your machines at least once a month
Avoid starting your machines in extreme cold weather. Find a time when the temperature is above freezing to start the machine and briefly operate hydraulics.
If a crawler type machine is badly frozen, do not try to break it free
This can cause power train damage.