How to Prepare Your Construction Equipment for Spring
Category: Equipment and Solutions
Between cold temperatures, potential contaminants and a long period of disuse, winter can be hard on heavy equipment. Preparing your construction equipment for spring is a crucial task that can save you time during the upcoming busy season and help ensure the longevity of your investments.
Preparing Heavy Equipment for Spring
Run through these spring preparation tips for your equipment before it’s time to work:
Check air filters: Make sure the air filters are clean and replace them if needed.
Check fluids and fuel: As you bring your excavator up to warmer ambient temperatures, be sure to check the manual for appropriate procedures and filling requirements. If you’ve been using a winter fuel blend over the colder months, switch back out to your warmer fuel.
Check on your batteries: Test the batteries of any powered equipment. Make sure they still hold a charge and are in good shape — they should be free of corrosion, cracks and leaks. Some batteries need periodic changes, so stay up to date on these requirements.
Inspect wheels, tracks and tires: Look for tears, low tread depth and wear. Adjust the tire pressure or track tension if needed. Check the manual for specific numbers to help ensure optimal performance. Listen for any grinding or popping sounds that might signal that the bearings are struggling.
Test everything: Test out your equipment. Look at the typical components, such as hydraulic systems and controls, along with comfort features, like air conditioning, heat, seat belts and windshield wipers. Perform visual and operational checks.
Clean the equipment: Take some time to clean all the grime off your construction equipment — winter often comes with sludge. Dirty equipment reflects poorly on your business and may even add weight to the machine. It can also make it harder for you to spot problems. Equipment sometimes becomes a nesting place for birds and small animals, so check for those as well.
Analyze your oil: Fluid analysis can help ensure that the oil hasn’t been contaminated over the winter. It can also help you check for problems with the equipment.
Stock up on supplies: Consider getting additional oil, fluids and basic parts so they’re ready to go when you need them during the busy season.
Remember your attachments: Give your attachments a good once-over as well. Look for damage and test them for performance. If they need any fluid, be sure to change it.
Parts and Service From NMC Cat
As you prepare your construction equipment for warm weather, you may find that you need repairs or parts. NMC Cat is your go-to source for genuine Cat® parts and dependable service in Nebraska and western Iowa. We can conduct repairs and take care of preventive maintenance before springtime.
To learn more, order parts or set up a service appointment, reach out to us online or call us at 800-628-6025.
