Birkey's Bulletin: Cold Weather Operation Tips

COLD WEATHER OPERATION TIPS:

We have yet again come upon the cold weather season. Here are a couple things to keep in mind while operating in colder climates:

THE ENGINE

Take extra care when fueling to avoid water and other contaminants from entering your machine’s fuel tank. The best way to avoid down time is to add anti-gel to each tank and to use a treated fuel.

THE FILTERS

Fuel, air, and hydraulic filters need to be maintained for easier starting and power loss. If you cannot remember when they were changed, we suggest changing them even if they look new. A good maintenance practice for these filters is to change them yearly to help avoid down time.

THE BATTERIES

When checking the be sure the top of the batteries cleaned off along with the battery terminals taken off and cleaned. Cold weather puts an extra stain on starters when they are working to move cold oil and parts -- both engine and hydraulic. Once starting allow 15-20 minutes for both of the engine and hydraulic systems to get warmed up.

THE HYDRAULICS

A couple of good practices is to dead head hydraulic function after 5 minutes of running. This warms the hydraulic oil up which will also warm the hydraulic valves and puts small load on the engine to help get it up to operating temperatures. Greasing the daily grease fittings is best at the end of the day after the machine has been operated so the grease will flow easier.

If you would to learn more about operating and servicing your machinery in colder weather please give your local Birkey's a call. We would be glad to discuss or set up a CMI which would go further than just the few tips described above. Not heard of the CMI program or its benefits? Call us today and we would be happy to fill you in on this Birkey exclusive program.