How to Winterize Logging & Forestry Heavy Equipment

Winterizing logging and forestry heavy equipment is important to ensure its longevity, avoid costly repairs, and keep it productive during the cold months. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Cleaning:

Clean the equipment thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and mud. This prevents corrosion and makes it easier to inspect for damage.   Pay special attention to undercarriages, tracks, and any areas where debris tends to accumulate.   

2. Fluids and Lubrication:

Engine Oil: Change the engine oil and filter. Use an oil viscosity suitable for cold weather, such as 5W-30 or thinner.   Coolant: Check the freezing point of the coolant and ensure it is sufficient for the expected temperatures. Consider using a coolant with extended-life antifreeze.   Hydraulic Fluid: Check hydraulic fluid levels and consider changing the fluid if it is due or if it is not rated for cold temperatures.
Fuel: Fill fuel tanks to prevent condensation. Fuel stabilizers should be added to prevent fuel degradation. Consider its use when the item is stored long.  
Lubrication: Apply low-temperature grease to every moving part. Do not forget about bearings, joints, and pivot points.   

3. Battery Care:

Clean the battery terminals and check the electrolyte levels. Charge the battery completely and possibly even keep it as close to the top as possible while in storage with a trickle charger.
For extreme cold operations, the battery can be pulled and stored elsewhere, where there is a minimal ambient temperature

4. Preventive Measure Against Corrosion:

Regular washing and waxing of all painted surfaces is performed to provide a protective shield against rust. Application of an anti-rust or anti-corrosive coating of all exposed metallic parts. Rust inhibitor with the fuel might also be deployed. 

5. Tire Care

For road wheel equipment inflate to the recommended level, and lay the machines on planks to eliminate flat spots from wheels.
For tracked equipment, inspect the tracks for damage and correct tension. To prevent freezing to the ground, park on wooden planks.