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Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Winter can be hard on your construction equipment, but with the right preparation, your Hitachi construction machinery will power through cold months efficiently. Here are six essential steps to prepare your excavator for winter conditions:
1. Check and Maintain the Batteries
Winter temperatures can severely affect battery performance, leading to reduced power or failures. Inspect your equipment’s batteries for signs of corrosion, loose connections, or weakening charge. Clean the terminals and ensure the battery is fully charged before colder weather sets in.
2. Lighting and Visibility
Shorter days and low visibility during winter make powerful lighting essential for safe operation. Upgrade your excavator’s lighting to LEDs, which provide brighter, more efficient illumination than traditional bulbs. LEDs also have a longer lifespan, ensuring reliable visibility even in challenging conditions.
3. Monitor Coolant Levels
Coolant is critical in protecting your engine from freezing and overheating. Check the coolant levels regularly and ensure you are using the correct antifreeze mix for your climate. Hitachi recommends using Hitachi Genuine Coolant and a proper balance of coolant to protect against freezing temperatures and maintain engine efficiency.
4. Inspect and Prepare Cab Glass
Clear visibility is crucial, especially in winter when fogging and ice can obstruct views. Thoroughly clean the cab glass inside and out and inspect it for any chips or cracks that could worsen in the cold. Consider defrosting sprays and de-icer to prevent ice buildup and ensure safe operation.
5. Replace or Clean Cab Filters
A clean cab filter is essential for maintaining a warm and comfortable environment for the operator. Replace or clean your cab filters before winter to ensure that the heating system works efficiently, providing warm air circulation while keeping the windows clear of fog. Fresh filters also prevent dust buildup that could clog the HVAC system.
6. Equip Your Team with Hitachi Merchandise
Don’t forget comfort is key! Be fully equipped with Hitachi-branded winter merchandise, including durable jackets, hats, thermal flasks, mugs and more. Keeping yourself or your crew warm and comfortable boosts productivity and ensures they stay focused during long hours of operation in cold weather.
Contact your local Depot for Merchandise
By following these steps, you’ll be winter-ready and worry-free and ready for a productive winter season.
Whether you have a new Hitachi machine or an older model, we offer a wide range of parts and supplies to suit your budget. Browse our webshop now to get yours.
