Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/440030
AGGREGATES MANAGER January 2015 16 E xcavators are some of the hardest- working machines at any aggregates operation. Throughout the spring, summer, and fall, these workhors- es perform a variety of tasks, from digging to loading trucks. When the weather turns cold, a new set of challenges face excavator owners and operators. Like most diesel-powered equipment, excavators need special at- tention for wintertime use and storage. Winter storage In many ways, storing an excavator for the winter is harder on it than using it. That is because the frigid temperatures can cause prob- lems with the machine's fl uids and systems, if they are sitting idle for extended periods. To prepare your excavator for win- ter storage and to be sure it starts up and is ready to go in spring, be sure to take into account the following steps: 1. Fuel Today's diesel engines are designed to work harder and run hotter. That means the fuel that is returned to the fuel tank is hot. As the fuel tank level is drawn down, moisture in the atmosphere condenses in the tank, resulting in water in the fuel. One of the fi rst things you should do before storing an excavator for the winter is to drain this water. You should also drain the water from the fuel fi lter and water separators, thus preventing any damage from freezing. Once any excess water is removed from the machine's engine and fuel system, the fuel tank should be fi lled completely with new, fresh fuel (that has not been stored for extended periods of time) mixed with an an- ti-gel additive. Even fresh diesel fuel can co- agulate and thicken under cold temperatures. Fuel gelling can be a big problem. It causes waxing in the fi lters and clogs the fuel fi lter media. Anti-gel additive prevents When it comes to cold-weather operations, be sure to take the right steps to protect your excavator. by Matthew Hendry Extreme Excavating