Although winters across the UK and Europe tend to be quite unpredictable, sometimes managing to escape weeks of ice cold mornings and snow blizzards. There’s no denying the colder temperatures are well on their way. With this in mind, you may want to start thinking about how you’ll maintain your used digger equipment over the winter months. Whether you’re winding down work over winter and want to store your machines, or continuing to power through and want to ensure your equipment still runs smoothly in the cold. We’ve put together a few tips that should help you.
Storing your plant machinery for winter
If you are thinking of putting your machinery into storage over the winter, there are important tasks that should be done before you lock them up and forget about them until spring. Neglecting these jobs could result in some hefty maintenance bills before you can use the machines again. These are our top tips for winter machine storage.
Find effective cover
It’s best to not leave your used digger equipment outside when not in use over the winter. The best solution would be to store it somewhere enclosed like a garage, warehouse or a shed. However, we know this isn’t always available. So, the next best option would be to cover your machine in some type of waterproof or insulated cover. Something like a tarp could work just fine. The main idea is just to reduce exposure to the elements as much as possible.
Disconnect the battery
Did you know cold temperatures can drain batteries quicker than normal? This is why it’s a good idea to disconnect your battery when you aren’t using your machine over the winter months. Try to store it somewhere the temperature will stay above freezing.
Take off attachments
Although leaving the attachments on your machine will save you some time during preparation. It could damage your used digger equipment. Cold temperatures could shrink the fittings, making it near impossible to remove them later on.
Maintaining your used digger equipment over winter
Work doesn’t always stop just because the temperature has dropped. So, if you’re planning to continue using your machinery over the colder months, here are some tips on how to keep it well maintained.
Check the entire machine regularly
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you need to make sure you are checking everything including the inside of the cab and the undercarriage of your machine. Mud and debris are bound to build up on the undercarriage more quickly whilst the weather is poorer. This makes it even more important that you remove all of it to ensure there are no loose or worn parts.
Warm the machine up
Much like us having to wake up on a freezing cold morning, getting your machine to begin operating immediately after starting the engine can be a shock to the system. Allow your machine plenty of time to warm up before putting it to use. It’s also worth doing a cycle of all its functions until you find it is operating with ease.
Keep an eye on fluids
Cold temperatures can be a nightmare for fluids. Oil can begin to thicken as it gets colder, making it more difficult to move. This can then have an effect on the joints and seals of your machine. When it comes to oil, make sure you’re following guidance on what’s recommended for your equipment. Another thing to check when it comes to your fluids, is that you leave room for expansion when refilling. This is especially important for machines with diesel exhaust fluid, as this can freeze.
Buying used digger equipment from IPS
We have a variety of different machines available for sale at International Plant Sales. All of our equipment is no older than 5 years old and is in excellent condition. Our machines come direct from our sister companies H. E. SERVICES (Plant Hire) Ltd and Digglerland UK theme parks, who purchase their machines from new. Meaning our machines have had only one previous owner and low hours.
Other benefits of purchasing used digger equipment from us include:
- Worldwide shipping is available
- Warranty included with your purchase
- Resprays and repairs are completed if needed before sale
If you would like any more information on any of our machines, or would like to arrange an in person or virtual viewing appointment. Please do not hesitate to contact the team at mail@ipsplant.com or +44 (0) 1634 779123.
Information correct as of 29/11/22
