Cold temperatures and winter weather can complicate the use of any machinery, and skid steers are no exception.
Whether you’re using a skid steer for snow removal or just need to keep your construction or landscaping project moving, it is important to know how to safely maintain and operate a skid steer during winter to avoid costly delays and dangerous accidents.
In this article, you’ll learn about the effects of winter weather on skid steers, and we’ll share seven tips for keeping your skid steer running.
What Does Winter Weather Do to Skid Steers?
Skid steers, also known as a skid loader, are one of the most versatile pieces of equipment for those working in agriculture, construction, landscaping and logistics. These compact, powerful machines come with a variety of front-end attachments that enable operators to perform a variety of tasks, including demolition, material handling, grading, paving, patching and more.
Just like all other types of heavy equipment, cold weather and ice can have a significant impact on skid steers, threatening safety and impeding productivity.
- Fluids: Cold and freezing temperatures can affect the viscosity and fluid levels of all the liquids (engine oil, coolants, fuel, lubricants, etc.) that keep a skid steer running.
- Loader Tires: Tire pressure decreases in cold temperatures, causing underinflation.
- Batteries: Winter weather can make it harder for batteries to maintain their charge. Ice, slush and road salt can cause wear and corrosion.
- Attachments and Other Features: Winter may mean that you’ll need to use skid steer winter attachments, like a snow pusher, or other features to operate a skid steer safely and comfortably.
Now, let’s explore ways you can prepare your skid steer and your team for safely using a skid steer in winter.
5 Tips for Using a Skid Steer During Winter
Even if it’s unlikely your project will be using a skid steer in freezing conditions, you still need to be prepared. Cold temperatures and winter weather can happen anywhere in North America, and cold snaps often happen without warning, leaving you vulnerable to downtime and safety risks if you don’t have the proper equipment
1. Plan and Train for Winter Conditions Early
As soon as you start planning your project, identify when you will need a skid steer. Consider if there is any chance crews will be working at a time of year (or at an elevation) where freezing temperatures, rain, snow or ice could happen. Even if a snowstorm rolls through for one day, it can cause significant delays and increase the risk of accidents or injuries.
Then, check local regulations and make sure your teams have the equipment and training necessary to handle winter situations. OSHA requires that all skid steer operators be trained to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions and be fully capable of safely handling a skid steer in any conditions that may arise.
2. Change Fluids and Tires
When preparing a skid steer for winter, the first thing that should be checked are the fluids. If the temperature is much colder than normal, or you are going into the winter months in a colder area, you should make sure that the engine oil, hydraulic lubricant, fuel, and grease are designed to handle the colder temperatures. In addition, make sure that your antifreeze is topped off and you keep the fuel tank full to reduce condensation from building up.
When the air is cold, the air pressure in your tires will drop and the rubber will become stiffer. Make sure to check your skid steer’s tire pressure regularly, as low tire pressure can reduce the machine’s ability to lift and push. Check the tires more often in cold weather for leaks and other damage, or switch to skid loader snow tires or tracks for better durability and traction in cold, slippery conditions.
3. Check the Battery and Other Parts
Another part that can operate poorly in cold weather is a skid steer battery. Cold weather can cause batteries to drain more quickly, and wet winter conditions can cause corrosion and faulty connections. Before starting a skid steer in winter, check the battery’s connections and ensure the battery is fully charged.
Like tires, other rubber and plastic parts, such as belts, pulleys, hoses and fittings can become more brittle and prone to damage in the cold. Be sure to check them before use and regularly throughout the winter season. Replace or repair them as necessary.
4. Use the Right Winter and Snow Removal Attachments
One of the best things about using a skid steer on a project is its versatility. This versatility is made possible by the variety of attachments that can be used. In addition to the regular attachments you need for your project (like a skid loader plow), make sure you also have winter attachments on hand to deal with the additional tasks winter weather brings, such as snow removal.
Winter attachments to consider include:
- Skid Loader Snow Blade: Curved blade with moderate angling and oscillating capabilities for snow removal on sidewalks, driveways, etc.
- Snow Pusher: Welded double sidewall enables large volumes of snow removal from hard-to-reach areas
- Box Blade: A scraper used to grade or level snow
- Angle Broom: For dusting away light snowfall (less than 6 inches of snow) from sidewalks
- Salt Spreader: Distributes sand or salt for treating and preventing ice buildup
5. Implement Winterized Skid Steer Safety and Comfort Measures
The engine, tires and attachments of the skid steer aren’t the only thing that needs winterization. You also need to make sure your employees are fully trained and kept warm and comfortable so they can safely operate the skid loader.
When selecting a skid steer for winter use, make sure the cab is well sealed and includes heating and defrosting functions to keep operators warm. Before use, have your team visually inspect and tighten all fittings and hoses. Make sure the windshield wipers are in good working condition and the windshield washer system is using anti-freezing fluid so operators can see where they’re going.
Make sure that you adjust workflows and processes to account for greater stopping distances and icy conditions or low visibility. Most importantly, think safety! Make sure all team members are adequately trained and able to adjust to winter conditions.
Find the Right Skid Steer Equipment Rentals at Herc Rentals
Winter’s ice and snow doesn’t need to slow your project down. With the right skid steer and preparation, you can be ready for any winter conditions nature throws at you.
At Herc Rentals, we believe in making equipment rentals easy. Our experts are here to support and advise you on the right skid steer equipment for your winter project. When you choose Herc Rental, you also get access to training if needed to ensure your team stays safe when working during winter.
Explore our wide selection of skid steer rentals and attachments now or contact an equipment expert at 888-777-2700.
