How to Prepare My Track Loader for Winter

 

Below is a winter preparation checklist to help keep your track loader performing at its best when the weather turns harsh.

1. Inspect Your Battery Before Cold Weather Arrives

 

Cold temperatures can significantly reduce battery power and starting performance.

Check for:

• Corroded battery terminals
• Loose cable connections
• Low voltage levels
• Damaged battery cases
• Slow cranking during startup

 

If your battery is nearing the end of its service life, replacing it before winter can save you from unexpected downtime on the jobsite.

 

2. Switch to Winter-Grade Fluids

 

Fluids that perform well in summer conditions may become sluggish in freezing temperatures.

Key fluids to inspect:

• Engine oil
• Hydraulic fluid
• Coolant/antifreeze
• Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF)
• Fuel system additives

 

Using manufacturer-recommended winter-grade fluids helps ensure smoother starts, improved hydraulic response, and proper engine protection throughout the season.

 

3. Protect Your Fuel System

 

Diesel fuel can begin to gel when temperatures drop, restricting fuel flow and causing hard starts or no-start conditions.

Winter fuel tips:

• Use winter-blended diesel fuel when available
• Add anti-gel treatment as recommended
• Replace fuel filters before winter
• Keep fuel tanks as full as possible to reduce condensation

 

A well-maintained fuel system is one of the best defenses against cold-weather breakdowns.

 

4. Inspect Your Tracks and Undercarriage

 

The undercarriage is one of the most important and expensive systems on a compact track loader.

Check:

• Track tension
• Track lug wear
• Rollers and idlers
• Sprockets
• Debris buildup

 

Remove mud, rocks, and debris regularly. Frozen material packed into the undercarriage can accelerate wear and place unnecessary stress on components.

 

5. Grease All Moving Components

 

Proper lubrication becomes even more important during the winter months.

Don't forget to grease:

• Loader arm pivot points
• Bucket linkage pins
• Quick-attach mechanisms
• Attachment pivot points
• Undercarriage components where applicable

 

Fresh grease helps push out moisture and protects critical components from corrosion and wear.

 

6. Inspect Hoses, Belts, and Seals

 

Cold temperatures can make rubber components brittle and more prone to failure.

Look for:

• Cracks in hydraulic hoses
• Fluid leaks
• Worn drive belts
• Damaged seals
• Signs of abrasion or rubbing

 

Replacing worn components before winter is typically much less expensive than dealing with a mid-season breakdown.

 

7. Service the Cooling System

 

Many equipment owners focus on staying warm during winter but overlook cooling system maintenance.

Verify:

• Coolant concentration is correct
• Coolant is clean and free of contamination
• Radiator cores are clear of debris
• Hoses are in good condition

 

Proper antifreeze protection helps prevent expensive engine damage caused by freezing temperatures.

8. Test Your Cab Heater and HVAC System

 

Operator comfort directly impacts productivity during winter projects.

Inspect:

• Heater operation
• HVAC filters
• Defrost function
• Cab seals and door latches

 

A functioning HVAC system improves visibility, safety, and operator comfort throughout the workday.

 

9. Prepare Winter Attachments

 

Snow removal and winter maintenance jobs often require specialized attachments.

Popular winter attachments include:

• Snow pushers
• Snow buckets
• Angle brooms
• Snow blowers
• Utility forks

 

Inspect hydraulic couplers, hoses, cutting edges, and wear points before winter work begins.

 

10. Store Your Track Loader Properly

 

When your machine isn't in use, proper storage can significantly extend its life.

Best practices:

• Store indoors when possible
• Use an engine block heater during extreme cold
• Clean the machine before storage
• Remove snow and ice buildup regularly
• Start and operate equipment periodically if stored long-term

 

Preventing moisture buildup and protecting critical systems can help ensure reliable starts all winter long.

Schedule Winter Service with Rexco Equipment

 

Preparing your track loader before winter arrives is one of the smartest investments you can make. Preventive maintenance helps reduce downtime, avoid emergency repairs, and keep your machine working efficiently through Iowa's toughest weather conditions.

 

Our experienced service team can help with:

• Complete winter inspections
• Fluid and filter replacement
• Track and undercarriage inspections
• Battery testing and replacement
• Hydraulic system service
• Genuine OEM parts and winter maintenance products

 

Get Your Track Loader Winter-Ready Today

 

A little preparation now can prevent major headaches later. By inspecting key systems and addressing small issues before temperatures drop, you'll keep your compact track loader productive, reliable, and ready for whatever winter throws your way.