Heavy Equipment Winterization Tips

As temperatures begin to drop, your heavy equipment may suffer. Tractors and other types of equipment will require some extra care to be able to operate during the winter months. If you’re not sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. The Bobcat of New Hampshire team is here to help. Read our heavy equipment winterization tips, then visit our dealership if you need assistance with parts or services. We’re located in Chichester and Hudson, NH.

Owner’s Manual

First, review the owner’s manual for your heavy equipment. While this may not be the most thrilling activity, it’ll offer valuable insight into the specific needs of your equipment. You’ll receive tips that are specific to your model, which helps you better tailor the winterization process. There are other nuggets of wisdom as well, including the ideal timeline for routine maintenance, the right tire pressure, and so on.

Engine Maintenance

Tractors and other equipment need a well-maintained engine to keep running. When you keep up with routine maintenance, you’ll extend the lifespan of your equipment and save money on repairs. Pay close attention to the type of fuel you use, too. It’s also a good idea to use proper lubrication and regularly inspect the filtration system. If these parts fall out of repair, it could result in expensive repairs down the road.

There are other aspects you’ll want to keep your eye on. Confirm your fuel tank cap and vent are working properly.  Check for signs of water or sediment in your fuel. This may indicate an issue that needs to be repaired as soon as possible. If you leave this problem unsolved for too long, it can damage your fuel injection system. 

During the heavy equipment winterization process, you may want to consider changing to a #1 diesel or a quality gasoline mix. When the temperatures drop, fuel problems may worsen. As a result, many owners opt for a better-suited fuel type.

Oil & Coolant

While the temperatures may be colder outside, overheating is still a common problem. Inspect your coolant reservoir and hoses. This will help you find signs of leakage early on and get it fixed before it becomes a major problem. Coolant will help prevent corrosion. It also helps keep things lubricated and will prevent cavitation.

Battery 

If you’ll be storing your heavy equipment during the winter months, make sure you remove the battery. If possible, hook it up to a battery tender or trickle charger. This ensures your battery will be ready to go when the weather warms up again.

If you have any questions, contact Bobcat of New Hampshire today! We’d be glad to assist you. Our dealership serves those in Manchester and Nashua, NH.