Get Your Equipment Ready for Winter

“We don’t have to remind any of our customers that winter is coming,” says Bob McKay, Monroe Tractor’s Henrietta branch service manager. “Despite an extra long and unusually dry fall, we all know what’s likely to be ahead of us, weather-wise.”

During winter operation many seemingly unimportant problems can be huge problems when harsh weather arrives. Bob offers the following tips as you prepare for winter operations:

1. Initially, a good thorough operational checklist will provide details of machine condition.

2. Proper fuel system condition and fuel quality are especially important. You’ll want to remove the fuel tank drain plug to make certain that there is no debris or moisture present. Fresh fuel filters, including any in-line filters are important. Be sure your fuel supplier is providing properly blended or treated fuel, to avoid fuel gelling in freezing temperatures.

3. If uncertain, put a small fuel sample in a freezer (at 0 degree Fahrenheit) to determine its condition.

4. Most modern engines will not tolerate the use of starting fluids. Therefore, properly working cold start systems and block heaters can save many headaches.

5. Optimal battery voltage and properly working electrical components are critical, especially with today’s electronically controlled transmissions and engines. Poor grounds or high resistance in harnesses and connectors can quickly cripple a machine.

6. Be sure that each machine has its “operator’s manual” in it. These provide answers to many questions that can arise along with details of proper oil and maintenance concerns.

7. Finally, we strongly suggest that our customers consider having Monroe Tractor perform at least a basic service, which will always include our 101 point checklist. The fall and winter seasons are the perfect time to take advantage of discounted and pre-priced services that should minimize unexpected breakdowns this winter.