You don’t have to be a meteorologist or a Game of Thrones fan to know that Winter is coming. That nip in the air and the falling leaves should be enough to tell you that it’s time to prepare your forklift for Winter weather.
It’s something you might not even think about, but the fact is your forklift is every bit susceptible to Winter’s bite as your car or home is, and Fall is the best time to start getting ready.
Typical cold weather damage includes cracked engine blocks, oil coagulation, and broken hydraulic pump shafts. Batteries weakened by Summer’s heat fail in cold weather.
If you don’t prep and protect your battery, engine and hydraulic systems you might dodge any serious problems but if there is trouble, it can get expensive- sometimes to the tune of thousands of dollars. You’re gambling against Mother Nature and everyone knows the House always wins.
Your service technicians can provide you with the right oils and lubricants for cold weather.
If your forklift operates outside, then obviously preparing is even more important. Snow tires might be in order. You’ll also want to “grit” the outdoor areas where your forklifts work for added traction in snow and ice.
Keep your forklifts clean in the Winter. Mud and dirt can clog parts and that can cause major trouble.
Prep your forklift operators for Winter, too. Make sure they have appropriate cold weather gear and train them to be more cautious on slippery surfaces in lots and loading docks. The sun sets earlier in the Winter as well, so make sure your forklifts have appropriate lighting for outdoor work.
And one thing you really might not think about- your stockpile of fuel and other necessities in case snow shuts down your supply chain for a few days.
For the most part, you should be able to Winterize your forklift for a couple hundred dollars. Balance that cost against a cracked engine block, and you’ll find that to be money well spent.
Questions? Contact Us and we’ll get you ready for the cold.