At Itec 2000 Equipment Inc, we’ve been in the heavy equipment industry for over 35 years, so we know equipment. Being from Northern Ontario, we KNOW cold and we’ve seen the effects that extreme weather can have on machines. Now with spring around the corner and the warmer temperatures on their way, we hope, it is the perfect time to begin your spring maintenance schedule.

Inspecting your equipment, ensuring you are up and running in time for the busy season has many benefits. Without proper preparation you can create safety hazards for yourself and staff, cause extensive downtown and need more expensive repairs.

Here are some tips for what should be in your regular spring maintenance schedule:

• Check on air conditioning

Don’t wait until the hot days of summer and the heat arrives, ensure your air conditioning is running now. When temperatures rise, you need to keep your workplace cool.

• Convert any seasonal equipment and inspect attachments

Get ready to remove salter bodies and plows. Inspect all buckets and teeth and replace as needed- Check out Itec’s Spring 2021 free bucket teeth promotion! Inspects booms and arms, look for excessive wear or play with pins or bushings.

• Test Rad and cooling systems

Hot weather causes hot engines so make sure your cooling system is functioning properly. Run the engine and inspect your coolant to be sure it is free from impurities.

• Change and/or clean filters

Change out filters. Dirty filters can become clogged and can reduce efficiency and increase the risk of contaminants.

• Check levels and change hydraulic and engine oils and fuel tank

Change to appropriate season oils, running a thicker fluid in the summer. Inspect the fuel in the tank to ensure there is no condensation build up. Assess all fluid levels for possible leaks that can indicate much bigger problems that need to be addressed.

• Clean interior and exterior, inspect lights and wipers

Thoroughly clean the cab and change the air filter. Spend some time cleaning the machines electronics and controls to reduce build up and protect these sensitive electronics.

• Inspect seals

Look for leaking, cold can make seals brittle. However, keep in mind that black rubber O-rings can shrink in the cold, but after warming it may reseal without issue, so ensure they are cracked or broken before automatically replacing.

• Clean and inspect undercarriage

Clean off any snow or ice, remove any debris. Check for loose pads or inappropriate tension. Make a note if it might be time to ask about upcoming Itec’s 2021 Winter Undercarriage Promotion this fall with our 3 month payment plan and 0% Financing O.A.C.

• Belts and Hoses

Ensure all belts are properly tightened. Replace any that appear cracked or damaged. Check integrity of hoses and look for signs of cracking or swelling.

Most heavy equipment is too large to store indoors, and when used or stored in more extreme climates often requires a little extra care. A strong commitment to proactive maintenance will protect your investment. The first line of defense will always be good winterization, but don’t neglect your spring upkeep either. If you could benefit from a trained expert, Itec 2000 can help. Do not hesitate to reach out to us at 888-483-2200.