Winter Wisdom: Keeping Your Equipment Ready for Cold Days

As winter sets in, the chill in the air brings new challenges for heavy equipment operators. At RTL Equipment, we understand the importance of maintaining your excavators, wheel loaders, cranes, and compact equipment in top-notch condition even in the coldest weather. We are "Driven by a Culture of Service" and that goes beyond just selling equipment – it's about ensuring your machines operate dependably through the winter months. This article provides a comprehensive list of do's and don'ts that will keep your heavy equipment running smoothly in cold weather.

Fuel: The Heartbeat of Your Machines

Do's:
1. Use Winter Blended Fuel: Opt for winter blended fuel to prevent gelling issues.
2. Store Fuel Cans Appropriately: Keep portable fuel cans in a temperature-controlled area to avoid condensation.
3. Daily Water Drainage: Drain water from the fuel filter daily, preferably at the end of the day.
4. Top Off Fuel Tanks: Fill fuel tanks at the end of the working day to minimize condensation.
5. Be Ready: Keep your preferred Diesel treatment handy in case of gelling.
 
Don'ts:
1. Neglect the Fuel Filter: Regularly check and replace the fuel filter to avoid gelling.
2. Forget Water Separation: Drain the water separator on fuel storage tanks daily.


Filters: The Unsung Heroes

Do's:
1. Pre-Winter Fuel Filter Change: Change the fuel filter before winter to avoid freezing issues.
2. Keep Spares: Have spare fuel filters and water separators on hand for quick replacements.

 
Oil: Lubrication Matters

Do's:
1. Switch to Lighter Oil: Use lighter weight engine oil in cold weather for better lubrication during startup.

Don'ts:
2. Avoid Extreme Light Oils: Don't use oil lighter than recommended, as it may not provide sufficient lubrication when the engine is hot.

 
Coolant: Keeping Things Cool

Do's:
1. Regular Coolant Checks: Check coolant regularly with a hydrometer to maintain the right mixture.
2. Use the Right Mix: Always use a proper water/glycol mix to prevent freezing.

Don'ts:
1. Say No to Plain Water: Never top off coolant with plain water, stick to the recommended mix.

 
Overcooling: Finding the Right Balance

Do's:
1. Monitor Temperature Gauges: Pay attention to temperature gauges to avoid overcooling issues.

 
DEF: Diesel Exhaust Fluid Essentials

Do's:
1. Monitor DEF Level: Keep DEF tanks at least ¾ full.
2. Manage DEF Quality: Choose high-quality DEF and store it indoors.
3. Proactive DEF Tank Maintenance: Drain and flush the DEF tank with deionized water if the machine is inactive during summer.

Don'ts:
1. Avoid Freezing DEF: Don't store DEF at below freezing temperatures.
2. Excessive Idling: For -5 machines, avoid idling for long periods of time as it can cause damage to the aftertreatment system.

Battery: The Power Source

Do's:
1. Test and Charge Batteries: Ensure batteries are fully charged in cold weather.
2. Clean Battery Connections: Corroded terminals can cause issues, so keep them clean.

 
Regen: Handling Regeneration

Do's:
1. Continue Operating during Regen: Keep the machine running when the DEF regen light comes on.

Storage and Starting: Setting the Right Foundation

Do's:
1. Park in a Sheltered Location: Shelter equipment from wind, preferably in a heated space.
2. Warm Up Before Work: Allow a cold engine to warm up for at least five minutes before operation.
3. Consider Block and Battery Heaters: Use block and battery heaters for easier starts.
4. Say No to Starting Fluid: Avoid using starting fluid unless equipped with a factory-installed kit.

 
Start Up and Shut Down Procedures:

Start Up:
1. Turn battery disconnect on.
2. Turn the machine on.
3. Let the machine warm up to operating temperatures or for at least 5 minutes.
4. Operate the machine.
5. If the machine goes into DEF Regen, continue to operate.

Shut Down:
1. Turn the machine off.
2. Let the DEF pump purge the system (15 minutes or more).
3. Do not turn off the battery disconnect if the red light is on.
4. Once the red light goes off, you can disconnect the battery.

 

Remember, at RTL Equipment, we're here to help. If you have any questions or need assistance with your heavy equipment in cold weather, reach out to us. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep your machines running smoothly!