Four Key Points for Winter Maintenance of LuGong Small Wheel Loaders

The severe winter has arrived, and wheel loader has also entered a peak period of malfunctions. To ensure the normal operation of wheel loader in winter, we have prepared a detailed winter anti-freezing and maintenance guide for everyone.

Four key points for winter maintenance of LuGong Small Wheel Loaders

First, choose the appropriate oil.

The top priority of winter maintenance is to prevent the oil from freezing or becoming viscous. Choosing the appropriate type of oil can effectively prevent the occurrence of faults. We can effectively maintain the loader by choosing antifreeze, diesel, engine oil and hydraulic oil.

1. Replace the Antifreeze.
The selection of antifreeze should be based on the local minimum temperature, choosing antifreeze that is about 10℃ lower than that temperature. If the local minimum temperature is -10℃, it is recommended to use antifreeze at -20℃ or -25℃. Before replacement, be sure to drain the original cooling water and clean the waterways.

2. Select the appropriate diesel grade

Diesel powers the loader. When the temperature drops, ordinary No. 0 diesel is prone to waxing, which leads to poor fuel supply and the machine cannot be used normally. Therefore, we need to choose the appropriate grade of diesel according to the temperature conditions.
Marking guide
When the temperature is above 4℃ : 0 # diesel
When the temperature is between -5℃ and 4℃ : -10 # diesel
When the temperature is between -14℃ and -5℃ : -20 # diesel
In extremely cold regions (below -14℃) : -35 # diesel
Note: If the fuel tank accidentally freezes, remember not to heat it with an open flame. Use an appropriate method or seek help from the technical experts of Lugong Machinery.

3. Engine oil and hydraulic oil

If the area you are in is particularly cold, it is recommended to switch to engine oil and hydraulic oil with lower viscosity to reduce starting resistance and protect the engine of the Lugong loader.

Second, Battery Maintenance

In winter, the battery drains quickly. When it is difficult to start, do not keep the engine running for a long time continuously to avoid burning out the starter. If the machine is not used for a long time, it is recommended to remove the battery and store it in a warm room. Check if there are any oxides on the battery terminals. Applying Vaseline can prevent oxidation and ensure good contact.

Third, Preheat After Starting

After the loader starts, it should idle at a low speed for 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t rush to carry out the work after the water temperature rises. First, operate the large arm and bucket several times to lift and flip, allowing the hydraulic oil to circulate and heat up in the cylinder and pipelines. It can effectively protect the hydraulic pump and oil seal, preventing oil leakage due to cold brittleness of the sealing parts.

Fourth, Park Correctly

When the loader finishes its operation, it should be parked on a flat, hard, sheltered and sunny ground as much as possible. Avoid parking on muddy ground with standing water or dampness. Ice at night can freeze the tires to the ground. If you force it to start the next day, it is easy to tear the tire treads. After parking the vehicle every day, it is recommended to drain the water in the air tank to prevent the air lines from freezing and causing brake failure.

Summary

Proper maintenance and use of loaders in winter can not only reduce maintenance costs but also extend the service life of loaders, ensure their normal operation and reduce downtime. For more questions related to the maintenance and repair of loaders, please feel free to consult Lugong Machinery Factory.