Tips to Help You Prepare Your Excavator for Winter

Winter is just around the corner, which means it’s time to get your excavator ready for the cold weather. Whether you plan to store your machine or put it to use at chilly temperatures, there are some extra maintenance steps you’ll have to perform to prevent serious damage. We understand the importance of winterization and have rounded up tips to help get you started.

Getting Started

The first step is to refer to the owner’s manual for your excavator. It provides specific information regarding the manufacturer’s recommendations for parts, fuel, oil, and so on. It also gives you useful advice on the maintenance tasks you need to perform and how often you need to do these tasks. The specifics of your equipment may vary, so it’s essential to follow the directions given in the owner’s manual.

Maintain Your Engine

A well-maintained engine can help improve the lifespan of an excavator and save you money on costly repairs. You’ll want to pay attention to the fuel you use, the functional filtration system, and lubrication. If you neglect any of these, it could also result in significant downtime, so be sure to prioritize proper engine maintenance.

The fuel tank cap and vent should be checked regularly to see if they are working fine or in need of replacement. Any signs of water or sediment in the fuel could indicate an issue and it might damage the fuel injection system. Inspect the air and fuel filters to check if they need to be replaced. Switch to the appropriate fuel to protect your engine in the winter months. The cold weather will only increase existing fuel issues, so it’s critical to use the right fuel.

Replace the Oil and Coolant

Overheating can sometimes be an issue for excavators even though the temperatures are colder in winter. Examine the coolant reservoir and hoses for any signs of leakage. Make sure the coolant is filled to the cap. The coolant helps with lubrication and prevents corrosion and cavitation. It's important to replace these fluids according to the maintenance schedule given in your owner's manual.

Engine oil is also important in preventing overheating and ensuring proper lubrication. Make sure the oil still has its viscosity and the right color. If it doesn't, you are likely due for an oil and filter change.

Care for the Battery

There are many things you can do to prepare your battery for winter. Start by checking the electrolyte indicator. If it’s drained below the top of the plates, this indicates that the battery has permanently lost some of its performance. Next, clean any dirt and debris from around the battery posts with the help of baking soda and a small brush. This ensures the cables and posts have a clean point of contact.

If you won't be using your excavator and the battery is going to sit for a while, connect the battery to a battery tender or trickle charger. This will help ensure that the battery is ready when the weather becomes warmer.

If you need any help with excavators, our experts at Bobcat of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County will be happy to answer your questions and provide advice. We have multiple locations in Pennsylvania, so in touch with us at your nearest dealership. We welcome all our patrons coming from Ohio and western Pennsylvania.