Preparing your Elliott machines for cold weather is an important step in ensuring longevity. Here are 6 maintenance steps to consider in the wintertime.
- Heaters in the platform
Stay comfortable while working in an aerial lift or crane platform by adding heat. A 110V heater on the platform provides the warmth you need to keep working until the job’s done.
- Wear proper attire
Ensure you are dressed properly by wearing at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing, insulated gloves and boots, and covering your head. - Prepare your chassis for the cold
Be sure to ensure that your truck is equipped with adequate tire tread and tire pressure for driving in snowy weather. Check all brake and turn signal lights to make sure drivers are aware of you far in advance. Also, check systems on the chassis that can pose potential problems in the cold, such as water in air tanks, batteries, and engine fluids.
- Oil warming solutions
When the temperature drops, so do the temperature of hydraulic oil. Cold oil dramatically decreases flow in the hydraulic system, which causes many equipment functions to slow down and underperform. Instead of running your oil for a long time to warm it up before operating the machine, consider adding a heater to the hydraulic oil tank to accelerate the warmup.
- Hydraulic oil replacement
Standard hydraulic oil has a viscosity that’s ideally suited to an average climate. When the temperature drops, your oil will lose stability and require additional heating before operating. Consider replacing your oil with specialized cold-climate oil that has a lower viscosity and retains stability in temperatures as low as -50° F.
- Cold weather hoses and seals
Expecting brutally cold temperatures? Replace critical hydraulic hoses and seals with specialized cold-weather replacements that stay soft even in the coldest climates. Before operating, make sure your hoses are tightly secured.
For additional winter safety tips, visit OSHA’s Winter Weather page.