Top 5 Steps to Winterize Your Heavy Equipment
Winter may slow down your season, but it shouldn’t slow down your machines. As temperatures drop, your heavy equipment faces new challenges, from cold starts to frozen fluids and battery strain. Taking time to properly winterize your fleet now can prevent costly downtime later and extend the life of your machines.
Here are five key steps to get your equipment ready for cold-weather performance.
1. Inspect and Replace Fluids
Cold weather puts extra stress on every system, and your fluids are your first line of defense. Thickened oil and hydraulic fluid can make it harder for your machines to start and operate efficiently.
- Check oil viscosity: Switch to winter-grade engine oil if needed.
- Top off antifreeze and coolant to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
- Inspect hydraulic fluid and ensure lines are free of leaks and moisture.
Keeping fluids clean and at the right viscosity helps your equipment run smoother and prevents unnecessary wear.
2. Protect Your Battery
Your battery is one of the most vulnerable components in cold weather. As temperatures fall, batteries lose capacity, and a weak one in summer might not make it through winter.
- Test voltage and cold cranking amps (CCA) before the first freeze.
- Clean terminals and cables to remove corrosion.
- Store batteries indoors if equipment will be sitting idle for long periods.
A quick inspection now can save hours of frustration later, and ensure a reliable start when it’s cold out and you need them most.
3. Inspect the Undercarriage and Tires
Cold weather amplifies existing wear and tear, especially on undercarriages and tires.
- Clean mud and debris from undercarriages to prevent freezing and rust.
- Check track tension and look for cracks or worn components.
- Inspect tire pressure, as it drops with temperature.
Preventing buildup and ensuring proper tension helps machines perform consistently on icy or uneven terrain.
4. Keep Fuel Systems in Top Shape
Diesel engines are especially sensitive to cold, and your fuel system is often where winter problems start.
- Use winter-blend diesel or add anti-gel treatments to prevent fuel gelling.
- Replace fuel filters to ensure clean flow.
- Drain water separators to avoid freezing and damage.
Starting issues and injector damage are often traced back to fuel problems. Simple preventive steps now keep your machines running when the temperature drops.
5. Store Equipment Properly
If your machine will be idle for an extended time, proper storage can make all the difference.
- Park under cover or use weather resistant tarps.
- Grease all fittings to block moisture.
- Disconnect batteries or use trickle chargers.
Proper storage reduces corrosion, prevents frozen components, and makes spring start-up faster and easier.
Prepare Now, Perform Later
Winterizing your fleet is about avoiding breakdowns, but also ensuring your equipment is ready when the next job calls. Whether you operate loaders, excavators, or haulers, taking a proactive approach to heavy equipment winter maintenance keeps your investment protected and your business productive.
Need help getting started? Ascendum’s service team can perform winter inspections, fluid changes, and preventive maintenance tailored to your fleet
Contact your local Ascendum branch to schedule your winter prep today.
