How to keep your digger working through winter

As the weather starts to cool and the days grow shorter, it's time to start thinking about preparing your digger for winter. We may have milder winters here in the UK but it is still essential to carry out routine checks and maintenance all year round. Proper preparation is key to ensuring your construction equipment is ready to tackle the challenges of the colder months ahead. Here are the 6 best things we recommend you do to get your mini excavator ready for winter:

Change the Fluids

One of the most important steps in preparing your digger for the cold is changing the engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant.  Cold weather can cause fluids to thicken and lose their effectiveness, so be sure to use the right winter-grade fluids recommended by the manufacturer. This will help prevent damage to critical components. Moreover, make sure the coolant is 50/50 antifreeze to water as this is the ideal mixture to balance freezing point, boiling point, and rust protection.

Check the Battery

Cold temperatures can be tough on your digger's battery. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Also, make sure the battery is fully charged and that the connections are tight. If your machine is going to be exposed to extreme cold or long periods of downtime, why not invest in a battery-insulating blanket?

Protect Hydraulic Components

The hydraulic system on your digger is particularly vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. Ensure all hoses, cylinders, and other components are in good condition and free of cracks or leaks. If your digger is going to be stood outside for long periods of time, we advise to apply a layer of grease on the chrome rod to help protect it from the elements.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Take the time to thoroughly lubricate all the moving parts on your digger, including the king post, boom, swing mechanism and any attachments such as hitches. This will help prevent rust and wear during the winter months when parts may not be used as frequently.

Inspect rubber tracks

Your rubber tracks can take a beating during the colder months and are more likely to become damaged in very cold conditions. Ensure you inspect your tracks daily for any signs of wear and tear. You should regularly clean your tracks and remove any mud and debris. It is also a good idea to keep a spare pair of tracks in stock to reduce potential downtime. Don’t forget here at BTE we keep a wide range in stock too.

Store Properly

When not in use, store your mini excavator in a protected area, such as a shed or garage. If you need to store your machine outside, be sure to cover it with a tarp or another weatherproof cover for extra protection. Before storage make sure your digger is nice and clean. This will not only protect it from any damage or rusting but will also help maximise its performance and later down the road, it is more likely to fetch a higher price when being sold. 

By following these 6 tips, you can help ensure your digger is ready to perform at its best all year round. Taking the time to properly prepare your equipment now will save you time, money, and headaches further down the road.

Need a hand preparing? Get in touch with our Service Team and they will help look after you and your machinery no matter the weather. Alternatively, get the parts yourself and prepare your fleet for the winter.