In regions where heavy construction equipment is stored for extended periods during cold weather, a proper winterization process is essential. For those of you who work in cold climate regions like this, these tips can help ensure your asphalt and/or soil compactors are winterized and stored properly so they’re ready to go when the spring thaw arrives.
TIPS FOR WINTERIZING AND STORING ASPHALT COMPACTORS
First, if you anticipate needing to start your compactor in very cold temperatures, consider adding anti-gel to the fuel. If it gets really cold out, diesel can thicken or solidify into a gel-like substance, making it difficult or impossible for your engine to start.
For machines in storage, you’ll also want to start the engine once a month and run it until the engine comes to operating temperature. This precaution will ensure a long seal life and protect the operating systems. Be sure to wait until the exhaust outlet is cool and then cover the engine air intake and exhaust outlet securely to keep out dirt and water.
The batteries are also a concern with sub-freezing temperatures. The colder weather slows down the electron movement, and in turn, capacity and cranking amps are diminished. A battery that’s not at peak performance or charge can be susceptible to issues in freezing temperatures. For best practice, batteries should be removed from the machine or kept on a tender.
When it’s time to store your asphalt compactor for an extended period of time in a cold climate, be sure to follow machine preparations like these:
- Clean the machine thoroughly.
- Select a storage site that’s not subject to flooding or other natural hazards. It’s recommended that your machine be stored in a building or under a tarp, if possible. Position your compactor on level ground and apply the parking brake.
- Follow the procedures for the daily and 50-hour service. Ensure your machine is greased and all lubricants are to spec (refer to your machine’s user manual).
- Fill the fuel tank to the maximum level to minimize any condensation.
- Change the engine oil and engine oil filter.
- Drain the fuel/water separator.
- Check the coolant mixture and adjust as needed.
- Protect all exposed cylinder chrome rods with protective grease to prevent corrosion.
- Drain the front and rear water tanks by running the water pumps to purge all remaining water from the system. After draining the system, we recommend running non-toxic antifreeze through it because the hose routings can have low points which may contain water, plus the spray nozzles could contain some residual water and crack if they freeze.
- Shut down your machine and ensure the battery disconnect switch is in the off position. It’s also a good idea to cover the instrument panel with plastic and secure it. It’s not recommended to use clear plastic because it may allow UV rays to pass through which could fade components or potentially contribute to degradation of certain types of plastic components.