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Home / Heavy Equipment / CASE Compact Dozer Loader

CASE COMPACT DOZER LOADERS
Part dozer. Part loader. All beast. The CASE MINOTAUR™ DL550 compact dozer
loader creates an all-new, industry-first equipment category. 29 Patents. More
than 10,000 hours of field tests. Rip. Doze. Load. A fleet of one – second to
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ModelOperating WeightHorsepowerBucket Cap MINOTAUR™ DL55018,600 lb (8,444 kg)114
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CHECKLIST FOR COLD WEATHER OPERATION


USE THE BEST FUEL.

Make sure you are using high quality winter diesel fuel. The fuel conditioner
should match the type of fuel you are using (e.g., low sulfur) and should be
approved by manufacturer.

Check starting devices
Check to make sure block heaters and cold weather starting devices are working
properly.

Warm up the machine
Let machines come up to operating temperature before working.

Keep a spare fuel filter
Keep an extra fuel filter in the cab, but follow installation instructions in
your operator’s manual.

Check ice build up
Check for Ice or snow build up in exhaust or intake if applicable. Inspect and
clear Ice or snow build up from throttle, and brake area.

Warm up to improve steering response
Steering response on equipment with hydraulic steering may become very slow at
low temperatures, even when the correct oils are used. Once the engine is
started, let the machine idle until the engine reaches operating temperature.

Safety first
Mount and dismount your machine using three points of contact. Remember that you
are working with snow and ice; slips and falls are a common cause of injuries.
Wear your seatbelt when operating equipment and stay alert.

For Idle Machines

 * Start once a month, when temperature is  above freezing.
 * Avoid starting a machine in extreme cold weather.
 * Operate hydraulics for a brief time.
 * Do not try to break crawler type machines from  a badly frozen situation. It
   can result in power  train damage.
 * Test batteries, and use proper procedures if  a unit needs to be started with
   an assist devise  or jumper cables.


SUMMER COOLING SYSTEM BEST PRACTICES

An engine's cooling system protects it from over heating and keeps it operating
at optimal temperatures. If the cooling system is not maintained properly, it
must work harder to prevent the engine from overheating. As a result, your
machine will not operate as efficiently and internal components could be
damaged. It is estimated that cooling system problems are responsible for 40% of
all downtime.

Follow these maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance and reduce downtime.

Check Cooling Fans

The cooling fan is part of the cooling system and must be inspected regularly.
Look for loose or damaged fan blades. Cracks or nicks in the fan blades can
cause the fan to become out of balance and vibrate, which can destroy water pump
bearings and other related components, eventually leading to total system
failure. Also, inspect the fan for excessive debris buildup and clean regularly.
The debris can cause the fan to disengage and blow a system fuse.

Clean Radiator and Coolers

It is very important to power wash the radiator and cooler every few days,
especially during hot weather. Humidity and dust buildup will coat radiators,
air coolers, and oil coolers. This buildup cuts down on airflow and heat
transfer significantly. As a result, operating temperatures increase
dramatically and cause the engine to overheat and, ultimately, shut down.

Analyze Coolant

Coolant that appears cloudy or has floating particulates could be an indication
of corrosion, cavitation and rust. Regardless of coolant type, all coolants
should be clear. Inspect the inside of the radiator for corrosion, and check the
coolant for signs of rust or debris. Follow the manufacturer's recommended drain
intervals. At a minimum, coolant should be drained and flushed annually.

It is important to perform a coolant analysis because half of all water pump
failures are caused by a concentration of antifreeze that is too high for the
cooling system. Test the additive concentrations with a coolant analysis test by
taking a sample and submitting it for analysis. The recommended interval for
testing is 1,000 hours. McCann has sample kits available that are easy to use.

Replace Hoses & Clamps

Frequently check the condition of your coolant hoses & clamps. As the
temperature rises in the cooling system, the hoses and clamps expand and
contract at different rates. This expanding and contracting of the hoses and
clamps, repeated over and over, causes the hose-to-neck seal to wear. Inspect
all radiator and heater core hoses and lines for excessive softness or hardness,
and check for cracks and leaks. Be sure all the connections are tight to avoid
water leakage and hydraulic hose failures. Replace hoses every two years.


MACHINE WINTERIZATION


FOLLOW THESE BEST PRACTICES TO MAKE SURE YOUR MACHINE IS READY FOR WINTER.

 * Check chain tanks, final drives, swing gear baths and gear boxes for
   water. Check the label to make sure you’re using coolant that complies with
   ASTM standard D-621, with a freeze point low enough for your climate. If
   coolant freezes, it can crack the engine block and ruin the engine.
 * Add fuel conditioner.
   Fuel conditioner prevents your fuel from freezing and makes sure your engine
   starts in the cold. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the amount
   of conditioner required. Match the fuel conditioner to the type of fuel
   you’re using (e.g., low sulfur).
 * Check the fuel filter.
   If the fuel filter is clogged, moisture can build up and freeze in the
   winter, causing your machine to run improperly or fail to start. Empty the
   water traps in the filters before cold weather arrives. To avoid downtime,
   keep an extra set of fuel filters in your cab.
 * Check cold start aids. Diesel engines spray ether into the air system to help
   the engine start in cold weather. For older machines that have ether spray
   bottles, check the bottle to make sure it isn’t empty. For new machines with
   an automatic ether system, inspect the connections and hoses for cracks or
   loose connections.
 * Check the block heater.
   Block heaters keep fluids at the right temperature and viscosity. If it isn’t
   working, the oil can thicken, so it’s harder to turn the engine over and adds
   stress on the battery. Plug in the block heater to check it, then touch the
   hoses to make sure they are warm.
 * Inspect air pre-cleaners.
   Large dust particles and debris can build up during the summer and should be
   removed. Otherwise, snow and ice could collect around them, allowing moisture
   into the air system, which could cause engine failure.
 * Check battery and connections.
   Corrosion around battery connections causes less voltage to be transmitted,
   and increases the strain on the battery. Corroded connections can drain the
   battery, preventing your machine from starting. Periodic inspections for
   corrosion reduce the chance of having a drained battery.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


WINTER STORAGE

 * Top off the fuel tank if possible.
   If you have a diesel engine, leave it completely full during winter months to
   eliminate the possibility of condensation forming in the fuel tank and
   spreading. Condensation can clog the fuel filter, which can clog fuel lines,
   carburetors, and injectors.
 * Run the engine after cleaning.
   Run your machine’s engine after cleaning the engine and replacing the oil so
   that a protective film of oil coats the internal parts. The oil coating acts
   as a rust preventative. Pour a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze into the
   coolant system before running as well to protect the cooling system to -34°F.
 * Clean & fully charge batteries, then disconnect the power leads.
   Never store discharged batteries. Colder temperatures slow the discharge rate
   of fully charged batteries.
 * Start machines once a month.
   Avoid starting the machines in extreme cold weather. Find a time when
   temperature is above freezing to start the machine and operate the hydraulics
   for a brief time.
 * Do not try to break crawler type machines from a badly frozen situation. The
   result can be power train damage.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


COLD WEATHER OPERATION

 * Protect your machine.
   If you can’t keep your machine inside when it’s not in use, at least keep a
   weather resistant tarp over the engine. With snow comes condensation, which
   can cause problems for the entire engine.
 * Manage productivity.
   Cold weather makes the earth harder, and frost can penetrate roadways and
   aggregates to make utility, road, and crushing jobs much more difficult and
   time consuming. Winter months have less daylight, so manage your time wisely.
 * Keep the job site clean.
   It is imperative to keep jobsites neat and clean during winter months. When
   not working, leave a layer of snow on the ground to keep frost from
   penetrating the ground – the snow will actually insulate the ground
   beneath. When working, make sure to clear all snow and ice to avoid
   accidents.
 * Clean areas designated for snow removal.
   Clean up debris or equipment that will be hidden by fallen snow. Mark any
   areas of concern with reflective stakes so snow removal crews can easily
   identify & stay away from those areas.
 * Plan for earthworks projects.
   Frozen chunks of ground need to be placed in designated areas. The frozen
   chunks of earth contain water that can cause major problems in the spring,
   such as sink holes.
 * Use the best fuel.
   Make sure you are using high quality winter diesel fuel. The fuel conditioner
   should match the type of fuel you are using (e.g., low sulfur) and should be
   approved by manufacturer.
 * Check starting devices.
   Make sure block heaters and cold weather starting devices are working
   properly.
 * Warm up the machine.
   Let machines come up to operating temperature before working.
 * Keep a spare fuel filter.
   Keep an extra fuel filter in the cab, and follow installation instructions in
   your operator’s manual.
 * Check ice build up.
   Check for Ice or snow build up in exhaust or intake if applicable. Inspect
   and clear ice or snow from throttle and brake area.
 * Warm up to improve steering response.
   Steering response on equipment with hydraulic steering may become very slow
   at low temperatures, even when the correct oils are used. Once the engine is
   started, let the machine idle until the engine reaches operating temperature.
 * Stay aware of safety.
   Mount and dismount your machine using three points of contact. Remember that
   you are working with snow and ice slips and falls are a common cause of
   injuries. Wear your seatbelt when operating equipment and stay alert.


DEALING WITH CHANGING TIRE PRESSURE DURING THE WINTER

Underinflated tires are a drain on your business. Low tire pressure increases
fuel usage and wear. Follow these best practices to get optimal performance from
your equipment.

Check tire pressure regularly
You can't check tire pressure with a visual inspection. Many tires will look
properly inflated even if they're not, which is why it's important to check
regularly with temperature changes. In the winter, check tire pressure weekly.
The best time to ensure an accurate reading is before you operate the machine or
three hours after shutting down. A general rule of thumb is that 10° F air
temperature change correlates to a tire pressure change of 1 psi.

Measure tire pressure at the working temperature
Don't measure tires in a warm shop if you'll be working in the cold. Make sure
you're taking accurate tire pressure readings in the setting that the equipment
will be used.

Inflate tires with nitrogen
To combat pressure fluctuations, consider using nitrogen to fill your tires.
There's no added risk of combustion or fire and it prevents ice crystals from
forming that could hold open the tire's valve stem. When inflating your tires
with Nitrogen, continue to fill the tire to the manufacturer's recommended psi.

Slowly roll tires if they have been sitting for long periods in cold weather
When first using a machine after it has been parked, gradually move the machine
at first. Cold temperatures can cause the contact surface of tires to go flat
against the ground and this will allow the tires to return to their correct
shape.

As temperatures warm, continue to keep an eye on tire pressure
Don't let your tires over inflate as temperatures increase. Faster, irregular
wear can occur, shortening the tire's life. Measuring tire pressure regularly
throughout any temperature fluctuation ensures you'll be working at optimal
pressure.


CTL AND SKID STEER OPERATION

The versatility of skid steer and compact track loaders makes them a staple on
almost any jobsite. Follow our best practices to make sure you are getting the
most out of your equipment by completing work efficiently and safely.


ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEATBELT

Rollover accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in CTLs and skid
steers, often because the operator wasn’t wearing a seatbelt. Even if your
equipment features a ROPS system, seatbelts are an important component to assure
safe operation. No matter how light the load or how short the distance, fasten
your seatbelt before you begin operation.


DON'T TRAVEL ACROSS SLOPES

If you need to go up or down a slope in your machine, make sure the heaviest end
is positioned uphill and travel in a straight line up and down. This position
maximizes stability and greatly decreases the risk of rollovers. When no load is
being carried, the rear of the machine is usually heavier.

Never leave the operator's station while the engine is running or when the arms
are raised
Another leading cause of injury or death involving skid steers and CTLs is
hitting or crushing someone with moving parts. Buckets can unexpectedly lower or
loads can be dropped without notice. Never start the machine or make adjustments
from outside the cab, and never allow someone walk under raised arms.

The proper technique for stopping the machine is:

 * Lower the arms and attachment flat on the ground
 * Stop the engine and remove the key, or lock the keyless panel
 * Engage the parking break
 * Move the controls until they are locked or in a neutral position


NEVER TRANSPORT PERSONNEL IN THE BUCKET OR ON ATTACHMENTS

No more than one person should ever be involved in operating a skid steer or
CTL. Falling off these machines can result in serious injury or death. Never
lift the hydraulics or drive a machine with another person riding along the
outside of the machine.


ATTACHMENT MAINTENANCE


KEEP COSTS DOWN BY EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR ATTACHMENTS


HYDRAULIC HAMMERS

Complete a Regular Three Part Inspection

 1. Check for leaks in the attachment’s fittings or hoses
    Prior to use, inspect hoses for cracks and check that shielding is in place.
    Make sure your fittings are not loose and your hoses and fittings are free
    of contaminants.
 2. Inspect critical points for proper lubrication and function
    Power wash the attachment to remove dirt, sand or other contaminants. Once
    clean, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper special grease or oil
    lubricant requirements for proper bushing wear. These contain special agents
    designed specifically for manufacturers’ units, and standard grease is not
    acceptable for most hammers.
 3. Make sure the locking mechanism is operating correctly
    The locking mechanism should not be stiff or bent to ensure proper locking
    and unlocking of the attachment. Check for damage whenever attachments are
    changed. Never pry with tool while operating.

Best Practices

 * Keep hydraulic hose ends out of the dirt
 * Make sure your hammer’s in and out ports are closed on the jobsite – dust and
   sand can easily enter if left open
 * On a weekly basis, or every 10 hours, remove and inspect the retaining pin
   and tool
 * On a monthly basis, or every 50 hours, inspect the tool shank and bushings,
   carefully checking for wear
 * Every 50 hours, inspect hydraulic hoses
 * Hammers should be serviced annually or every 600 hours


BUCKETS & TEETH

Bucket Inspections

Buckets require extra care – a well maintained bucket can cut down on costs by
digging and breaking out more efficiently, which reduces fuel consumption and
increases the rate of job completion. Prior to use, carefully check the
following parts of your bucket:

 * Mounting Hinges
   Inspect for cracks. A small crack can quickly become much larger – if you see
   any cracks, get them fixed immediately.
 * Front Leading Edges and Corners
   Visually check to see if they are getting thinner or if there are signs of
   cracking. If so, the corners can be re-plated and thickened to increase the
   life of the bucket. If left unchecked, the corner could fail during heavy
   digging and the bucket edge can be torn out completely and would have to be
   replaced.
 * Bucket Edges
   Any signs of distress? If so, can it still be serviced? If you are working
   with a bucket with reversible edges, you may want to consider rotating them.
 * Bucket Teeth
   Check if they are worn or need rotating. Teeth that are regularly rotated
   last longer, saving you money. Corner teeth tend to wear faster – move them
   to the center to increase their life. Many styles of teeth can be turned
   upside down – the lower edge wears faster and if they are turned over they
   will wear more evenly.
 * Lost Teeth?
   Do not use a bucket with a missing tooth. Not using a full set of teeth will
   wear away the adapter nose and result in poor contact when new teeth are
   installed.
 * Correct Bucket Teeth?
   There are a wide range of bucket teeth that can be used for a variety of
   applications – make sure you have the correct teeth for the job, such as
   penetration teeth for rock or abrasive teeth for coal.
 * Lubrication
   Is the bucket properly greased? Insert some lubrication into the proper
   bucket pin locations. Simple lubrication is the cheapest and best form of
   maintenance. Also,
 * Check pins and bushings for wear at this time
   Worn pins & bushings cause more stress on the machine, and rapidly lead to
   expensive and more in depth repairs when let go too long. Also, worn pins &
   bushings result in less control of the machine during operation.


MAINTAINING YOUR COMPACT EXCAVATOR


DAILY CHECKS

One of the simplest—yet often overlooked—maintenance practices is the daily
walkaround checklist. Be sure to check the engine oil, hydraulic fluid and
coolant and top off when necessary. Make sure that you’re using the
manufacturer-recommended fluid. Remember, it never hurts to ask your dealer or
your tech. After a week or so, it is important to check the fuel filter and
drain any water or debris that may have built up, or replace it if necessary.
Next, check the hydraulic hoses and air system for leaks—its always better to
find a problem and fix it while it’s small, than to wait until it’s too late.


GET OUT THE GREASE GUN

Next, check all pivot points on the machine and grease where needed. You should
also check the track tension—always check your operator’s manual for the proper
technique. Something that is often completely overlooked is the bucket or
attachment. Be sure to check all the pivot points on the attachment as well, and
grease where needed. Also, take a look at the teeth on the bucket. If they are
worn down to a certain degree, that can have a serious effect on the machine’s
performance. If the teeth are worn and dull, the machine has to work a lot
harder to get the job done, and there’s no reason for the added wear-and-tear on
the machine. If you aren’t sure, ask your dealer or tech.


COOLING SYSTEM

It is important to keep the radiator, oil cooler and other heat exchangers clean
during operation. Check for any accumulated debris, and wipe down when
necessary. Remember, slow oil or coolant leaks tend to collect dust and other
particulate matter—keep an eye out for potential problem areas during your daily
checks.


SPECIAL MAINTENANCE FEATURES

Many modern excavators offer special features that allow for easier maintenance.
Easy access is crucial when it comes to quick maintenance checks—all of our
excavators feature a well-designed engine compartment and access panels. You
should be able to access and locate components easily and safely. Another great
feature on our newer excavators is a multi-function monitor in the cab. This
electronic panel offers important performance readouts, and will let an operator
know when fluid levels are low, or when maintenance is required.


CHECK THE MANUAL

You probably hear this a lot, but it is really important to use OEM filters and
manufacturer-recommended fluids and fuel. The machines where developed and
tested using these fluids and filters, and any difference in specs can affect
the performance of the machine.
Be sure to check your operator’s manual and make sure that you are keeping up
with the regular service intervals. Your technician will be sure to check the
belt tension and alignment, keep up with the proper oil and fluid changes, and
keep the cooling system running properly. Ask your dealer or tech about regular
service intervals—again, it’s always better to stay on top of things


HYDRAULIC HOSE



CHOOSE THE RIGHT HOSE

When choosing a hydraulic hose you should pay close attention to the following
characteristics:

 * Working Pressure – Choose a hose that is suitable for the working pressure of
   the machine
 * Wire or Sheathing – Install wire or sheathing when fabricated if the hose
   will be used in an area exposed to damage from pinching or crushing
 * Fluid – Make sure you use a hose compatible with the fluids that are used in
   the machine
 * Size/Inner Diameter – Choosing the right size hose is important in order to
   avoid unwanted friction. When fluid rubs against the inner surface of the
   hose, friction is created, which creates heat, increases back pressure and
   reduces the rate of flow
 * Match the Fluid Viscosity to the Operating Temperature – In order to achieve
   maximum component life, the fluid’s viscosity grade should be correctly
   matched to the operating temperature range of the hydraulic system

KEEP YOUR HOSE OPERATING CORRECTLY

Follow these maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance and reduce risks,
labor costs, and downtime

Pre-Use Inspection – To be completed before each use

 * Check hydraulic hoses for signs of deterioration – Look for indications of
   wear, such as cracking, blisters and bubbles. Catching signals early helps
   avoid hose failures later on
 * Inspect seals used in fittings and adapters – Seals wear down, harden and age
   with regular use. Check for signs of wear and replace as needed
 *  Timeframe for replacement varies – There is no set time to replace hydraulic
   hoses. Rate of deterioration depends on a variety of factors including usage,
   pressure, and the type of hydraulic liquid
 * Semi-Annual Maintenance Checks – At a minimum, hydraulic hoses should be
   thoroughly inspected by a certified technician every six months

Storage and Safety Tips

 * Keep fittings clean – Avoid getting sand, dirt or other substances on your
   fittings and clean before each connection
 * Use caps and plugs when not in use – Use of caps or plugs on your hydraulic
   hoses keeps them clean and saves time later when you have to re-attach them
 * Store in the shade – Keep hoses stored out of direct sunlight. The sun
   accelerates deterioration and high pressures can result when the oil expands
   in the hose, making connection more difficult
 * Detach carefully – A pressure relief tool is the best implement to remove a
   pressure-locked hose. Do not hit hoses on the floor to release pressure
 * Always wear safety goggles when working with hydraulic hoses

WHAT IF A HOSE FAILS?

Usually hoses fail due to misapplication, deterioration or improper maintenance.
If the hose fails, be extremely careful:

 * Shut down the machine immediately to avoid additional damage
 * Allow machine to release pressure – Pressure is not released immediately and
   machines need time to release pressure to a level suitable for a proper
   inspection
 * Do not search for the leak using your hands – Hydraulic fluids can penetrate
   the skin and pose a significant risk to your health
 * Carefully replace the hose and test for proper operation

Please contact your local service manager with any questions on hydraulic hoses
or to schedule an inspection.


FUEL USAGE

When using heavy machinery, certain practices can help reduce overall fuel
consumption and costs. The following tips may help you save hundreds of dollars
each year.

INSPECT AIR FILTERS REGULARLY

Inspect your air filters every 50 hours to ensure maximum operating performance.
If the pleats of your filter are clogged with dirt, it is time to change the
filter. We do not recommend cleaning the air filter, which can damage it.

Changing your air filters regularly is the most simple and cost effective way to
decrease fuel costs. When an air filter becomes clogged with dirt, the engine
cannot get the air it needs and does not operate efficiently. Some machines have
air flow indicators that tell you when it is time to change the filter. If you
wait until you see a warning, however, you have probably been wasting fuel.

GREASE FITTINGS PROPERLY

Lubricate your machine according to manufacturers recommendations. By keeping
your machine properly lubricated, fuel efficiency is increased simply because
the power needed to perform operations is reduced. The more mobility the
components have, the less work the hydraulic system must perform.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

Check tire air pressure before and after each use. If the tire pressure is low,
fill the tires as soon as possible. Low air pressure can reduce the efficiency
of your machine and lower fuel efficiency. Checking tire air pressure is easy
and costs nothing.

BE ALERT FOR SIGNS OF A MECHANICAL PROBLEM

When you see signs of a mechanical problem, such as excessive black smoke, bring
your machine in for repair before the problem gets worse. Mechanical problems,
such as a bad fuel injector, can significantly reduce fue efficiency. If your
fuel injector is overfueling a cylinder, your machine is wasting fuel.

RUN YOUR ENGINE AT LOW RPM WHEN POSSIBLE

Begin by running at a low rpm during operation, then slowly raise the rpm until
the engine does not strain. This level will be the most efficient and effective
rpm for the job. When a job does not require maximum power, running the engine
at a lower rpm can significantly reduce fuel consumption.

SERVICE YOUR EQUIPMENT REGULARLY

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for servicing your equipment. Most require
service at least every 500 hours. Fuel efficiency is affected by many different
components. The best way to ensure that your machine is working efficiently is
to service it regularly.


STAYING WARM IN COLD TEMPERATURES

During the winter months, it’s important to stay warm when working outdoors in
cold temperatures to retain body heat and avoid hypothermia and frostbite. The
following best practices will help you and your team operating in the winter.


PREPARE YOUR EQUIPMENT

AIR FILTERS

Check, and if necessary replace, air filters in the cab to improve your heater’s
effectiveness. Also, make sure that snow or ice isn’t blocking any airways.

RADIATOR

Cover the radiator intake to help the machine warm up faster. Don’t operate the
machine until the engine has reached operating temperature to reduce the chance
of damage.

ENGINE BLOCK 

Plug in engine block heaters at night for each machine to avoid problems and
service calls.


WEAR THE PROPER GEAR

COVERALLS

Thermal insulated coveralls are essential for anyone who is working outdoors in
the winter. They are designed to maximize body heat containment while allowing a
wide range of motion. If coveralls aren’t an option, look for thermal long
underwear to help keep in body heat.

HELMET LINERS

Worn under a hard hat, these liners keep your head and neck warm. Fleece lined
fabric is the most popular choice because of its comfort and insulation levels.
Keep spares on hand and remember to wash them regularly for the best results.
Maintain a stable center of gravity at all times.

PROPER GLOVES

Glove selection is crucial to balancing warmth with dexterity. Make sure the
fabric and textures are suited to your job and consider gloves that work with a
liner. They may be a little oversized, but they allow increased protection.

THERMAL SOCKS AND INSULATED BOOTS

Standing or walking on cold surfaces for long periods of time can quickly
decrease your core body temperature. Double layer socks and boots designed for
cold weather can make a big difference.


OPTIMIZE THE ENVIRONMENT

GROUND BARRIERS

Where possible, stand on mats, plywood or other barriers if you’ll be working
outside for long periods of time. These materials act as installation to help
decrease the amount of body heat lost to the cold ground.

PORTABLE HEATERS

There are many types and sizes of heaters that help keep workers warm. Rent or
purchase heaters for outdoor projects to increase worker productivity.


WATCH FOR THESE SYMPTOMS

Keep an eye out for the following symptoms of over exposure.

HYPOTHERMIA

 * The body stops shivering
 * Breath becomes shallow and slow
 * Victim will suffer from memory loss and confusion as well as exhaustion
 * Speech may become mumbled and slurred
 * Extremities will loose coordination causing stumbling and fumbling
 * Pulse will slow down and become weak
 * In severe cases unconsciousness can follow without breathing or a pulse

FROST BITE

Initial signs of frostbitten skin include

 * A change in color to white, grey-yellow, or dark and black
 * A texture that is hard and waxy feeling
 * Numbness
 * Blisters

During rewarming and healing the skin may

 * Swell and become painful
 * Burn and itch

Skin damaged by frostbite can suffer from long-term numbness. In some cases, the
tissue dies requiring removal of the body part.


RADIATOR CARE

NEVER OPEN OR INSPECT THE RADIATOR WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING OR THE SYSTEM IS
HOT

Personal injury can result from hot, pressurized coolant. Always shut off the
engine and allow the radiator to cool before examining the system or beginning
any work.

KEEP COOLANT FRESH

It’s estimated that 40%-60% of engine failures are coolant related. These
failures either are related to using an improper coolant or to topping off the
system with the wrong product. Keep careful records to make sure you’re changing
the fluid at factory recommended intervals and not mixing coolants.

REMOVE BLOCKAGES DAILY

Check your radiator screen daily during warm weather for dirt, grass or other
debris. A clear screen will help your machine stay cool and assure maximized
performance.

CLEAN RADIATOR CORES

Use compressed air to blow debris from the cores. If material remains, you can
use high pressure water or steam to remove dust and debris, but compressed air
is preferred.

INSPECT THE RADIATOR CAP FOR DAMAGE

When the radiator is cool, slowly remove the radiator cap to reduce system
pressure. Inspect the cap for damage or deposits of material. If any cracks or
damage are visible, install a new cap. Otherwise, clean and close the cap
firmly.

BE ESPECIALLY VIGILANT WHEN USING HYDRAULIC ATTACHMENTS

Hydraulic attachments put more stress on a machine’s cooling system than using a
bucket. This stress leads to faster overheating and requires the operator to
keep a close watch of the machine, especially in hot weather.


SANITIZING EQUIPMENT

Properly sanitizing heavy equipment is essential for maintaining the health,
safety, and productivity of your team. Truck and machine cabs can be ideal
environments for harboring and transmitting viruses and other illnesses. Despite
the fact that operators are typically alone in the cab, all it takes is one
mechanic, supervisor, or second shift operator to hop in there, touch a surface,
and potentially be infected or leave traces of a virus.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have a heightened sense of awareness
when it comes to maintaining cleanliness. Follow these heavy equipment
sanitation tips to protect your team from coronaviruses, the flu, and any other
pathogens that may strike.

FIND THE RIGHT DISINFECTANT

Before you start actually sanitizing your construction machines, you have to
find a disinfectant that is effective at eliminating the majority of viruses
without damaging your equipment interior. To avoid harming or discoloring vinyl,
plastics, leather, or other surface materials, we recommend using cleaners
designed for automotive interiors, not general household.

Isopropyl based cleaning products can be used to sanitize the majority of hard
and interior surfaces. When using an alcohol based cleaning solution, the CDC
recommends concentrations of 70% or above. Follow the instructions on the
product for concentration, application method, and contact time. If you are
trying to deactivate or kill a specific virus, check the EPA-approved
disinfectant list for detailed descriptions of which types of cleaners to use
for certain pathogens.

You should consult your owner's manual for directions on how to clean monitors,
touch screens and other sensitive surfaces without damaging them.

WEAR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Once you have the proper cleaning solution, it's time to move into the cab. The
person handling the sanitation should always wear latex or synthetic rubber
gloves and a mask or face covering. Wearing personal protective equipment will
ensure the team member is shielded from the cleaning chemicals, as well as
prevent them from leaving traces of a virus on the surfaces they just wiped
down.

CLEAN ALL INTERIOR SURFACES LIKELY TO BE TOUCHED

The most important parts of the cab to sanitize are the ones that we touch a
lot. Those areas should be cleaned before each new person enters the machine and
typically include all handles, joysticks, steering wheels, knobs, buttons, seat
belts, seat belt latches, windows, and even floor mats. Spray surfaces with the
cleaner and use a highly absorbent microfiber cloth to scrub and wipe dry. For
sensitive electronic or display areas, use an EPA approved contactless product,
which you can spray and let dry without needing to wipe off.

OTHER SURFACES TO PAY ATTENTION TO

Just as important as sanitizing interior hard surfaces are exterior surfaces.
Spray, scrub, and wipe all machine touchpoints, including the dipstick, gas cap,
engine access points, handles, latches, and anywhere else likely to have
contact.

Although it typically does not have to be sanitized as often as hard surfaces,
it's a good idea to clean your upholstery at least every week, if not more
frequent. You will find a variety of upholstery products at any auto parts
store. If applying your own solution, avoid using anything that contains bleach,
as it will cause discoloring.

WASH SURFACES BEFORE SANITIZING

Before using your sanitizing solution to disinfect equipment, ensure all dirt
and dust are washed off. Washing before disinfecting is especially important for
your machine's exterior, but also for floor mats, handles, and anywhere else
that is visibly dirty. Clearing dust and debris will make the sanitation process
more effective.


FLUID MAINTENANCE

It is especially important to monitor fluid levels in your equipment during the
summer months when temperatures are high. The summer heat will cause the engine
to warm at a faster rate. As the engine warms, the machine’s fluids will suffer
vaporization loss, eventually leading to a lower fluid level. Perform daily
checks on the hydraulic fluid, coolant and machine’s oils to ensure that the
equipment will not run into problems while operating.


FLUIDS TO CHECK

Hydraulic fluid
Hydraulic fluid is used to transmit the force required to operate the machinery
and to lubricate the hydraulic system and protect it from corrosion. Low
hydraulic fluid levels will cause the machine to overheat and reduce the power
of the equipment. Before checking the level of hydraulic fluid, make sure the
machine is on even ground. The fluid should be kept at the level indicated on
the tank’s gauge.

Coolant
Coolant keeps an engine running at peak performance in all temperatures. Coolant
adds antifreeze and corrosion inhibitors, to prevent freezing, corrosion,
cavitation and rust. Operating with low coolant can lead to major problems,
because unprotected surfaces could sustain damage. When checking coolant levels,
allow the engine to completely cool. Then, locate the coolant reservoir and fill
the tank to the indicated line.

Oils - engine, transmission, gear
Engine oil is used mainly to lubricate parts. It also cleans, inhibits
corrosion, improves sealing, and cools the engine by carrying heat away from
moving parts. To check the engine oil level, some machines require a dipstick
inspection while others require removing the fill cap to check that the oil is
at the fill line or the top of the fill hole.

Transmission oil lubricates the transmission gears and helps keep the
transmission operating temperatures reduced. To check the transmission oil, turn
off the engine and locate the transmission dipstick. The level should be just
under the full mark.

Gear oil lubricates gear teeth and helps prevent the machine from overheating.
When checking the lubricant level, make sure the gear oil is at the level of the
filler plug. Fluid level is critical to effective and efficient operation.


ADDITIONAL FLUID QUESTIONS?

Contact your local branch with your fluid maintenance questions. Be sure to ask
about fluid analysis to track contaminant levels in your equipment’s fluid, so
we can predict component failure. We will provide guidance and oil change
intervals, based on the results for your equipment.