In winter, construction machinery faces increased challenges due to lower temperatures. The viscosity of engine oil rises, leading to greater resistance during startup, making cold starts difficult and exacerbating wear and tear. Neglecting winter maintenance can cause equipment issues, leading to a range of problems in the following year, such as lower construction quality or direct impacts on construction progress, and may even hinder the successful completion of construction projects.

Maintenance and Care of Construction Machinery in Winter

1. Remove Scale and Ensure Pipe Flow: Remove scale inside the engine water jacket to prevent accumulation and clogging. For example, scale blocking the water drain switch can lead to incomplete drainage.

2. Check Cooling System Components: Ensure all parts are complete and in good condition. The engine's radiator louvers, startup thermal curtain, and engine cover should be intact, and insulation should be added to the engine and radiator covers. The thermostat should function well to prevent the engine water temperature from being too low or too high. To maintain the engine in optimal technical condition, the air temperature under the engine cover should be kept between 30-40°C, and the cooling water temperature should be maintained between 80-90°C.

3. Prevent Freezing During Long Periods of Inactivity: Periodically start the engine to maintain temperature and drain water promptly after operation (ensuring all water outlets are open). To prevent the engine block and cylinder head from warping or cracking, wait until the engine temperature drops to 50-60°C before draining the cooling water.

4. Use Antifreeze: Thoroughly clean the cooling system before use. There are two common types of antifreeze: one made from industrial ethylene glycol and distilled water, and another made from alcohol and water. Since antifreeze expands more than water when heated, to prevent overflow due to thermal expansion, the antifreeze added should be 6-8% less than the cooler's capacity.