Four Tips For Operating Heavy Equipment In The Winter Cold

Your machines are cold, but progress doesn’t stop for the cold! Here are four tips for operating your machinery in the winter cold.

1. Switch to Cold-Weather Fluids (Oil, Fuel, Hydraulic)

   Cold temperatures can affect the viscosity of oils and hydraulic fluids, potentially leading to equipment malfunctions especially in diesel engines. Consult your equipment manual or contact the manufacturer for recommendations on suitable cold weather fluids.



2. Utilize Pre-Heating Aids and Never Skip the Warm-Up

   A cold engine start causes the most wear and tear. Use tools and procedures to heat the system gently.

   • Pre-Heat: Plug in block heaters and battery heaters overnight or use engine-driven heaters (like diesel-fired coolant heaters) to warm the engine block, oil, and coolant before attempting to start.
   • Glow Plugs/Intake Heaters: Allow glow plugs or intake heaters to cycle fully before cranking the engine.
   • Warm-Up: After starting, let the engine idle for at least 5-10 minutes (consult your manual) to allow the fluids to circulate and warm up to operating temperature. Gradually cycle the hydraulics (move the boom, bucket, or blade slowly) to warm the hydraulic fluid and condition the hoses before starting any heavy work.


3. Protect and Preserve the Battery

   Cold temperatures drastically reduce battery power, while the thickened oil requires more power to crank the engine.

   • Keep it Charged: Check the battery's charge and inspect terminals for corrosion. A weak battery is the number one cause of no-starts in winter.
   • Turn Off Accessories: Disable all non-essential electrical accessories (lights, radio, heaters) before attempting to start to direct all available power to the starter.
   • Store Inside (If Possible): If machinery will be idle for a long period, remove the battery and store it in a warm location. If not, use a battery blanket/warmer.


4. Maintain Cleanliness and Site Safety

   Snow, ice, and frozen mud can quickly cause damage and create hazardous conditions.

   • Clear Debris Daily: Remove snow and ice from the cab, steps, tracks/undercarriage, and around the engine before starting to prevent damage and keep operators safe. Frozen mud/ice on the undercarriage can lead to excessive track wear.
   • Tires and Tracks: Check tire pressure daily; cold air causes pressure to drop. Ensure tracks are properly tensioned.
   • Keep Fuel Tanks Full: Fill diesel fuel tanks at the end of the shift. This minimizes air space, reducing the potential for condensation to form inside the tank, which can freeze and contaminate the fuel line.

By implementing these preventative steps, you will minimize equipment wear, reduce downtime, and ensure your team can keep working safely and productively, regardless of the brutal winter temperatures.

When you need the Right Part, Right Price, Right Now, Call AMS Parts: 1-800-255-6253 our Account Executives are ready to help you with your heavy equipmemt parts needs.