ForConstructionPros.com

Whether you store equipment over the winter months or continue to operate in cold climates, proactive maintenance prior to the winter chill can save a lot of headaches. Large temperature fluctuations impact the performance of virtually every fluid in your equipment, and during storage acids built up in used motor oil can virtually eat away vital internal components.

"Contamination and moisture are the bad guys," says Shawn Ewing, technical coordinator, Conoco and 76 Lubricants brands. "They are the ones that usually cause a high percentage of failures."

Examine coolant condition
A good starting point is the cooling system. "Do a complete evaluation of the system. Pressure test it for leaks and check all of the hose clamps," says Dan Arcy, technical marketing manager, Shell. "Make sure all of the hoses are in good shape. The last thing you need to do is break a hose in the middle of the winter."

The fluid itself must also be in good condition. "Check the freeze point of the coolant to ensure it is to the correct ratio per the OEM's recommendations, as well as do a coolant analysis to ensure the coolant is in the proper condition," says Jason Gerig, marketing manager, Chevron Global Lubricants.

You can check the freeze point with coolant test strips. "For best results, test when the coolant is between 50° F to 140° F and dip the strip into the coolant for one second," advises Dave Perry, tech services & product support manager, BP Lubricants USA Inc. "Remove and shake to eliminate excess and read the percent glycol."