In many countries of central and northern Europe, as well as in North America, the winter and first snowfalls come by surprise very often. This event influences not only our living conditions in general but also our earth-moving, public work, mines, quarries, agriculture machineries such as excavators, loaders, dump trucks, bulldozers, etc. status.
These machines produced for example by Komatsu or Volvo Construction Equipment are designed to withstand adverse weather conditions and extreme work. To increase the durability and reliability of Komatsu or Volvo machines and its components, attention must be paid to their maintenance, especially when the periods of the year are approaching with climatic conditions that may endanger their correct functioning.
Therefore, to continue working with the machines or to protect them during the winter months, a punctual and correct maintenance is necessary. Here are some suggestions that, as VOLVO CE and KOMATSU machine experts, we propose for maintenance of public works and earth moving machineries during the winter:
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Table of Contents
Safe and efficient storage of machines and vehicles
If the machines remain stationary during the winter, it is necessary to remove all parts and components such as joints to avoid damage.
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Review of the lubrication system, fuel and air filtering of the machines
A thorough cleaning of the tank is necessary, checking that there is no water or sediment in the fuel, which is the major cause of system failures. It is convenient to check the quality of the fuel used, as low temperatures usually accentuate its possible deficiencies. It is also important to follow the instructions and times recommended by the manufacturer regarding the lubrication of mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic equipment.
Air filter inspection is also vital, as contaminated air often causes premature engine failure.
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Pay attention to the diesel exhaust
Liquids for diesel emissions have a duration of one year. If the excavator, loader, dumper or other machinery are not used, the liquid components can be perfectly stored in a stainless steel container, due to their slight corrosivity.
The tank can also be filled before storing the machine, always bearing in mind that the liquid can expand up to 7% of its volume, which can cause the tank to explode if adequate space is not left.
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Care of vehicle cooling systems
It is essential to check that the coolant in the radiator is always full. The refrigerant protects the system from freezing, as it prevents corrosion and cavitation, which erodes the components. Similarly, it is convenient to keep the refrigerant concentration at 50%.
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Charge the machinery’s batteries
If the machines will not be used during the winter, it is advisable to remove the batteries and always keep them fully charged. In any case, it is advisable to always keep the battery charged because despite the cold does not damage the battery, it can affect the charging system.
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Check the chassis
The chassis should be checked at least once a year, whether it is used during the winter or not. In fact, the frame is the part with the highest maintenance costs.
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Checking the tires
It is essential to check the tires condition frequently to find out cracks, especially in winter. If they appear worn out in the centre, it is indicative that it is time to replace them.
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Use original spare parts
In any season in general, but especially in winter, it is always necessary to stock up on original spare parts, whether they are KOMATSU parts or spare parts for VOLVO CE to ensure reliable performance and durability when temperatures become extremely low.
In the case of excavator parts, as in the case of parts for bulldozers and loaders or parts for dump trucks and dumper trucks, it is essential to contact the official manufacturers and always use original spare parts. For these reasons it is very important to rely on distributors such as Taop Parts who sell used and original spare parts, guaranteeing not only their quality but also a considerable saving on the purchase price, compared to the purchase of new spare parts.
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Ignition and heating
When temperatures are particularly cold, large machine may require additional aids to speed up the temperature increase of the engine and hydraulic fluid. One of the additional tools recommended by us is the heater block that starts the engine and allows the temperature to rise, blocking the radiator, to cancel the cold air of the fan.
In conclusion, investing time, effort and resources in the optimal maintenance of excavators, loaders, dumpers, bulldozers, etc. can significantly prolong their useful life, guaranteeing the user’s peace of mind.
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