Two Locations

Knoxville

865-982-6452

Tri-Cities

423-975-9111

Operating Hours

Parts & Service

M-F 7am - 5pm

Sales & Rentals

M-F 8am - 5pm

Contact Us

865-982-6452

Sales: Blake Wilson

Parts/Service: Terry Nichols

Keep heavy equipment operating efficiently in winter months
Equipment Maintenance
January 20, 2025

Keeping Heavy Machinery Operating Efficiently in Winter Months

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Emily Bieger

As temperatures drop and winter weather approaches, heavy construction equipment works harder. Cold weather can affect machinery performance, reduce efficiency, and increase the risk of breakdowns. At CMI Case, we understand the importance of keeping equipment in top working condition year-round. With that in mind, here are some essential tips to keep your heavy construction equipment operating optimally to keep your projects on track during the colder months.

Inspect and Maintain Your Equipment

Regular equipment inspections are key to preventing costly repairs and untimely breakdowns. Check for leaks, wear and damage, especially in hydraulic systems, electrical components, engines and cooling systems. Maintain proper tire pressures and look for cracks or excessive wear on tracks and tires, particularly for excavators and skid steers. These simple steps can save you time and suffering out in the cold of winter.

Switch to Winter Grade Fluids

Cold temperatures cause fluids to thicken and flow more slowly, reducing machinery efficiency and performance. To combat this, it’s essential to switch to winter-grade engine oil, hydraulic fluids and fuel additives, which help prevent diesel fuel from gelling. Diesel engines are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, as water in the fuel system can freeze and cause clogs or damage. To avoid these issues, regularly drain water separators, use anti-gel additives or winter diesel, and keep fuel tanks full to minimize condensation buildup. By taking these steps, you can ensure your equipment operates smoothly and reliably throughout the winter months.

Battery Care

Batteries often lose efficiency in cold temperatures, making it harder to start your equipment and increasing the risk of other electrical related issues. There’s an old saying that batteries get killed in the summer (due to heat) and die in the winter (due to increased load demands they can no longer maintain). To keep your batteries in peak condition during winter, start by cleaning and tightening connections to ensure proper voltage flow. Regularly test the battery charge and replace any weak or failing batteries before they become a problem and leave you stranded. For equipment stored outdoors, consider using battery heaters or maintainers to keep them warm and ready to perform, even in freezing conditions. Proper battery care can make all the difference in keeping your machines running smoothly throughout the winter. 

Store Your Equipment Properly

Making sure your equipment is stored properly will shelter it from the harsh elements of winter. If possible, use covered areas or even indoor storage facilities to protect your machinery from the winter snow, ice, wind and rain. If you are not able to find cover for your equipment it is always smart to use waterproof covers to protect external components. Also, park machinery on solid ground after use to avoid important undercarriage components from freezing.

Preparing Your Crew for the Cold

Along with preparing your heavy machinery for the winter, it’s important to make sure that your most important pieces of equipment are ready for the cold too, and that is your crew! Teaching your crew to quickly recognize and respond to things like weather related equipment stress, emergency breakdowns, and other proper machinery upkeep can ensure that your projects won’t skip a beat despite the challenges cold weather might bring. Most importantly, keep safety in mind, as cold weather and ice can make operating heavy machinery dangerous. Keeping your crew up to date on the newest safety procedures and precautions that need to take should always be the utmost priority!

Always keep the tips and tricks above in mind for cold winter days. It’s also smart to reference machinery manuals for proper manufacturer recommendations and also seek out the wisdom of sales and service professionals on techniques that can be used to best protect your machinery from winter weather. CMI Case has service and sales professionals available Monday through Friday from 8-5pm to answer all your questions about your equipment and how to properly take care of it to avoid costly breakdowns.

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Don't neglect your hydraulic system when conducting routine maintenance on your equipment.
Equipment Maintenance
October 9, 2024

Preventing Hydraulic Systems Failure

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Contractors Machinery

Regular hydraulic system maintenance is something that gets overlooked far too often on heavy machinery. When hoses fail, they can cause serious damage to equipment, unexpected downtime and expensive repairs. Hydraulic systems deliver the power and movement your machines need to maneuver, lift and dig. Failures can be dangerous and costly. So, let’s address ways to keep your machinery’s hydraulic systems operating their best.

Daily Inspections

The best way to prevent failures of hydraulic systems is routine inspections to catch problems before they happen. Make looking for visible signs of damage and wear part of your daily duties before each shift to ensure all components are in good operating condition. If excessive wear or any issues are noted, get them addressed immediately before they completely break and cause more costly problems like full system failures and project shutdowns.

Routing, Heat and Protection

Preventing hydraulic hose failure begins with how the hoses are set up on the machinery. Friction is a common issue that causes accelerated wear and premature failure. In order to avoid abrasion, route hydraulic hoses away from pivot points or other areas that could cause excessive rubbing. Also, avoid running hoses near or through high temperature areas whenever possible. Heat can break down hose material, causing it to lose its flexibility and weaken its structure. It’s also important to cover or install a protective shield around hoses so they’re less likely to experience tears, cutting or other damage from harsh construction site conditions, including proximity to excessive heat sources.

Proper Fluid for Hydraulic Systems

The fluids that run through hydraulic hoses must be compatible with the hose specifications noted by the manufacturer. Improper fluids can deteriorate the inner hose material causing swelling, leaks, filter clogs and even disintegration which won’t be outwardly visible. It can also lead to much larger issues like system contamination and complete hose failure.

Recommended Preventative Maintenance

Hydraulic systems slowly break down over time, even with the proper fluids within, as small particles are released and contaminate the fluid the system compresses to create the power for movement. Changing your filters at manufacturer-recommended intervals noted in your owner’s manual is critical for the longevity of a hydraulic system and trouble-free equipment operation. Overlooking this service schedule will lead to accelerated hose wear, cuts, tears, abrasions and expensive heavy equipment services. You can pay me now, or you can pay me (more) later.

Few things can grind a job site to a halt like hydraulic hose failure. Avoid costly shutdowns and repair costs by keeping your heavy equipment’s hydraulic system maintenance on schedule with daily inspections and on-time filter and fluid changes. For more about hydraulic system maintenance and repair for your machinery, consult with the experts at Contractor’s Machinery.

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Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment
Equipment Maintenance Heavy Equipment
September 1, 2024

Even Heavy Equipment Tracks Require Maintenance

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Emily Bieger

Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment. Since new tracks can be expensive, and complex installation procedures can add to that expense, extending the life of a machine’s tracks through proper maintenance is smart business. While every tracked machine will eventually need new tracks, proper care and attention can significantly extend their lifespan. Unfortunately, many operators are lax in this aspect of equipment care.

Here are five essential tips to help maximize the life of your current tracks and keep your tracked machinery operating efficiently and smoothly.

1. Choose the Right Tracks for the Job

Selecting the right track width for the conditions you’ll be working in is crucial. Narrow tracks are better for hard-packed soil or rocky terrain, while wider tracks are optimal for soft or muddy ground. Picking the proper track width ensures safety, even weight distribution and will help prevent your machine from sinking into the ground.

2. Smart Driving Practices

Although this may sound obvious, it’s important to utilize proper driving skills to prolong the life of your tracks. Avoid driving over sharp or damaging materials, curbs, or chemicals. Steer clear of steep inclines or declines and minimize time spent on harsh surfaces like asphalt or concrete. And always drive with the machine facing forward to reduce wear and prevent unnecessary track stress. Pay attention to how the machine drives and operates, listening for unusual friction or grinding noises and anything out of the ordinary will help catch issues before they can incur expensive damage.

3. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Muddy tracks need to be kept clean for maximum. longevity.

Keeping your tracks clean helps avoid premature wear. Use a track spade or power washer to remove dirt and debris after each use. Accumulated dirt can affect fuel efficiency as well as cause damage, especially in the winter when frozen dirt/soil can impact rollers and bolts more easily. Be sure to regularly inspect the undercarriage for damage, misalignment, oil leaks, or erosion to the machine.

4. Proper Track Tension and Storage

Check and adjust track tension routinely to prevent damage and performance issues. Loose tracks can slip off and delay completion of your work. Inversely, overly tight tracks may strain mechanicals of machinery. When storing tracks, keep them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Periodically run the machine to avoid warping that may come from a machine staying idle for too long.

5. Thoughtful New Track Installation

When it’s time to install new tracks, proper installation is critical to avoid damage and ensure long-lasting tracks for equipment. Consider having a professional handle this process. If you chose to do it yourself, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear the appropriate gear. Make sure both tracks are replaced at the same time to maintain balanced usage wear and prolong an expensive piece of equipment’s lifespan.

Following proper care protocols and maintenance schedules will make sure you get the full usefulness, value, and longevity out of your equipment’s tracks. For more details, consult the expert technicians at Contractor’s Machinery. We’re here to help!

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Summer heat can harm your expensive machinery just like it can harm you!
Equipment Maintenance
August 1, 2024

Maintaining Your Machinery in the Summer Heat

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Contractors Machinery

Schedule machine use outside of peak sunlight hours

When possible, try to avoid using heavy machinery during peak heat hours. In most places, the summer heat typically peaks between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Operating equipment during these hours significantly increases the chances of your radiator or engine overheating. Instead, schedule heavy machinery use for early morning or later in the day. This tactic also helps protect your machine operators from the extreme heat.

Store your equipment in a shaded area

Try not to leave your equipment in the sun. This simple and logical trick will protect your machine from direct sunlight when it’s not in use. Find shade under trees, a tent, a tarp, or any other cool, dry place. Additionally, consider parking your equipment in the shade, even during short breaks. Any time you can keep your heavy equipment out of the sun it will help reduce heat-related issues.

Inspect your heavy equipment regularly

Daily inspection is important for the life of the equipment. Hot temperatures can cause overheating issues, so it is crucial to check things like coolant and antifreeze levels. These fluids are essential for keeping your machinery cool. It is also wise to regularly check your radiator, hoses, and fans for any leaks or cracks. A small problem with a key component left unfixed can lead to larger issues, so inspect often and don’t skip scheduled maintenance.

Properly clean your equipment

Keeping your equipment clean is not only an important part of general maintenance but is also crucial for maintaining performance during the summer heat. Mud and other debris can accumulate on key components of machinery throughout the day. Ensure that all cooling components are clear of dust and debris daily to prevent overheating and allow for proper airflow.

Prepare your heavy machinery in advance

Don’t wait for the heat to come, prepare ahead! Creating a list of general maintenance that needs to be completed is a great way to get ahead of the heat. Check fluids, grease your machines, and check key components such as the radiator. All of the steps go a long way in keeping your fleet and your business running at full capacity.

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Get maximum life & efficiency out of heavy equipment with routine maintenance.
Heavy Equipment
June 1, 2024

Getting Maximum Life & Efficiency Out of Heavy Equipment

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Contractors Machinery

Your investment in heavy equipment is significant, and getting the longest lifespan out of your machinery means not only long-term savings, but fewer breakdown costs and on-the-job slowdowns due to sidelined equipment. And let’s not forget the human factor; malfunctioning machinery can pose a safety risk to its operator. Typically, maintenance is cheaper than repairs, so let’s discuss what you can do to get the maximum performance and lifespan from your heavy machinery.

Watch for Signs of Wear

Catching wear issues in the earliest stages will significantly save you equipment repair costs and downtime. Operators that know the machine are usually sensitive to odd noises and new vibrations from tracks, belts and gears. Pay attention to gauges and monitor for increased temperatures caused by friction, leaks, poor lubrication and extended stress on engine internals. Even age plays a factor in wear, with aged or warped belts, worn gear noises, loosening of bolts causing rattles and more. If you discover wear and tear on moving parts, it’s best to get the issue serviced or the parts replaced as soon as possible to avoid expensive repair bills or safety issues.

Constantly Monitor Lubricant Levels

Friction creates heat, and excessive heat due to friction can cause major wear and tear on moving parts, which equals expensive breakdowns and heavy equipment failures. Proper lubrication extends the life of your machinery. Not only is maintaining the proper manufacturer-recommended lubricant viscosities vital, but also the levels of those fluids required to keep machinery humming. Fluid leaks, like excessive grease or oil, means seals are compromised and should be replaced before lubricants are leak onto the ground which is harmful to the machinery and the environment. Constant inspection of lubricant levels and equipment seals, as well as following manufacturer recommended service intervals, will keep your machinery working as it should for as long as possible.

Operator Training

Equipment operators who are constantly overstressing or are abusive to their machinery are expensive for businesses. They increase the chances of equipment breakdowns and failures and risk the safety of not only themselves but co-workers on a job site as well. Constant operator training is essential to ensure that expensive equipment is being monitored properly for performance and shut down before small problems become big problems. It should also be drilled into operators to check outer air filters and all fluid levels BEFORE beginning the days work.Equipment is built to take abuse infrequently, but if it’s the norm, that equipment will likely see early retirement or failure before its time.

Keeping Machinery and the Working Environment Clean

Keeping heavy machinery properly maintained not only involves internal fluids, but external cleanliness. Making sure working parts are clear of contamination promotes longer service life of those components. Keep seals inspected and filters changed regularly. Monitor equipment breathers to prevent contaminants from being sucked into the cab. And when storing equipment, keep it sheltered from weather and wind to prevent early rot, rust and deterioration.

On-Time Maintenance Schedules

Tracks, tires, fluids and electrical systems are all constantly in operation with your heavy machinery, and they all need to be inspected on a regular basis to get the longest service life possible. Neglect is the enemy here. Have a schedule in place based on operational working hours of the equipment, and always take the environmental conditions into account. Working in extreme cold, hot or dusty environments can easily shorten the effective life of lubricants and filters, and cause equipment to operate under higher stress and heat levels. Staying on top of keeping proper levels of fresh fluids in your rigs and paying attention to wear item maintenance schedules will keep your heavy equipment operational for the next job, and the next and the next.

But do keep in mind…equipment does wear out over the years, and it becomes a better option to replace than to repair. Wear and ageing are inevitable. Whether new or used, If you need to replace heavy equipment browse our website for the best deals in our extensive inventory of construction machinery available.

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Monitor and maintain your equipment's undercarriage
Equipment Maintenance
October 1, 2023

State-of-the-Art Undercarriage Care

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Contractors Machinery

The careful monitoring and maintenance of the undercarriage of a large machine can easily make up 60% of the long-term cost of that machine. CASE takes those numbers very seriously, investing extensively in the undercarriage of its machines through its new undercarriage wear measuring program, All Makes Undercarriage Program.    

Using TrackCare technology, the All Makes Undercarriage Program is the collaborative effort of CASE and CNH Industrial brands. This new program allows CASE customers to partner with dealers on a whole new level, working with each other to bring unparalleled undercarriage care to their equipment, offering literally every replacement part an owner may need. 

There are several factors that contribute to the wear and tear of your machine’s undercarriage:  

Application – The type of job you are doing with your equipment has tremendous impact on the stress and strain on your machine’s parts. Considering the tasks of carrying and grading, trenching, dozing, pushing, ripping, loading…the more torque the job requires, the more stress it puts on the undercarriage.

Terrain – Your equipment is typically being used to change the terrain. Hills, slopes, crowns, depressions…all put resistance force on the undercarriage and put exceptional strain on the undercarriage components.

Underfoot – Abrasive rocks, sand, and harsh debris all deteriorate the parts of the undercarriage.

Operation – If all the above factors were not considered, the simple operation of large equipment means the undercarriage and all other parts of that machine experience daily wear and tear. We’re asking these machines to do a lot, and they work hard to do it. 

With the TrackCare system, the large equipment owner can combat each of these factors and get longer life from his equipment. He can customize track groups and chains, then order as many as are needed in specific sizes.  All Makes Undercarriage Program owners can get replacement part options for non-CASE machines as well. 

 When owning CASE equipment there are no surprises in terms of cost. Use the Total Cost Ownership calculator to strategize just what CASE can do to improve your business today! 

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Planned maintenance extends the life of your equipment
Equipment Maintenance
June 23, 2022

Planned Maintenance Extends the Life of Your Equipment

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Contractors Machinery

“Time simply seems to go faster as I get older!” You’ve said it a million times! We notice it when our kids are growing up, when it’s time for our yearly physical….and when it’s time to maintain our heavy equipment! It’s essential to have a Planned Maintenance Agreement (PMA) if you don’t want your equipment to fail you when you need it most.

Investing in a PMA is more important today than ever before:

SAFETY

Your equipment is increasingly high-tech. Truthfully, even you may not understand all the essential components to keeping it healthy. Despite OSHA regulations, it is common for operators to overlook the little things Regular routine maintenance prevents any number of problems, as these “little things” are key items on the checklist:

  • Accuracy of gauges
  • Battery
  • Tires or tracks
  • Levels of all fluids

PREVENTION OF BREAKDOWNS

Breakdowns mean downtime. And nothing affects the bottom line like downtime. If you take excellent care of your heavy equipment, it will live past the hours logged and the miles on the odometer. Regular planned maintenance is the key to understanding the proper age of your equipment and keeping it running strong to the end.

OVERALL COST IS REDUCED

As you know, with any vehicle, your equipment loses value the minute you start it up for the very first run. The way you make a good return on that investment is by getting as many years out of it as possible. With routine maintenance, fuel economy improves, keeping your equipment running longer and more efficiently.

RESALE VALUE INCREASES

When it is time to flip that equipment or simply retire the work for good, a PMA is a proven way to get more money for your vehicle. Having documentation that you have taken impeccable care of its maintenance will prove to the next buyer that he will have fewer safety, breakdown, and cost headaches as well.

CASE offers an outstanding Planned Maintenance Agreement to keep your equipment running as vigorously as it needs for you to get the job done!  Click here to learn more.

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Construction trends for 2022
Construction Industry Trends Construction Safety
April 29, 2022

Efficiency and Safety Remain the Top Construction Trends in 2022!

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Contractors Machinery

As our nation is taking its first breaths after Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, the construction industry reflects on how these strange two years have drastically affected current construction trends. Stricter safety regulations, rising supply costs (up 17% in 2021!), and continued shortage of workers has made 2022 a uniquely competitive market.

Increased health and safety regulations are here to stay, as contractors have implemented new methods to meet cleanliness and safety standards, ultimately increasing union presence. This year the companies that have invested in quality protective gear and technology are the ones who are getting the bids. Robotic transport equipment has solved the problem of both safety and labor shortages. Everything from protective headsets to Wi-Fi safety alerts has been implemented so that OSHA is happy and the customer gets his job done on time.

Face-to-face contact has been replaced by “smart” contracts, which allow both the customer and the contractor to review and track progress of jobs more efficiently and safely. Regulations are followed closely and deadlines are met on time, all by tracking building supply and labor progress online. Drones, AR (Augmented Reality), and online modeling have met the challenges of labor shortage as well.

Another construction trend for 2022 that’s on the upswing are prefab and modular buildings, with many international builders hoping to spend just 25% of their energy on on-site construction by 2025.  The prefab trend increased dramatically with social distancing regulations, but it is continuing as an economical and comfortable option for builders.

As the construction industry adjusts to a post-pandemic generation, it is thinking “green” and efficient from every angle. Building designs must be energy smart and multi-functional. (Think gardens on rooftops and self-sustaining environmental resources.)

“Smart” employees are being redefined as well in 2022! A college education was commonly thought to be a “plus” in most industries, but construction companies are increasingly hiring hands-on experience and skill, despite lack of a college education. These days of labor shortages have opened opportunities for skilled laborers and forced businesses to focus on training like never before.

Unfortunately, increases of cost have had to be passed on to the consumer as a result of many of the necessary changes in the construction industry. But the result has forced some trends for this business that are here to stay through 2022 and far beyond.

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Care for and extend the life of your heavy equipment.
Heavy Equipment
March 7, 2022

How to Care for and Extend the Life of Your Heavy Equipment

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Contractors Machinery

A tentative economy and a season of uniquely challenging weather nationwide has heavy equipment owners exceptionally concerned about protecting their biggest investments. Here are four considerations as you determine how to get a full lifetime out of your machines:

Review your training protocol:  It is essential that every employee who is operating your equipment knows how to care for it properly. At the end of an exceptionally long workday, cleaning a rig is the last thing anyone wants to do, but it’s critical to the life of your machines.  Excessive rain and mud buildup is cruel. Is your crew thoroughly trained in how to best run and clean your equipment in extreme weather? That additional training time may very well save you in the long run.

Enforce preventive maintenance: In addition to routine cleaning and care, develop and enforce the implementation of a preventive maintenance program. It should be a point-to-point inspection of every aspect of your machines, paying special attention to any rebuilt components. Finally, make sure electronic data is collected and safely recorded so routine maintenance is never ignored.

Go digital:  If you have a growing business and are concerned that employees are not conducting every detail of cleaning and maintenance, invest in a CCMS (computerized maintenance management system.) This computer software will record any work done and notify you automatically when it’s time to check and care for your machinery. There are some critical questions to ask when investing in a CCMS, such as the size of your business and your budget. Sites like  https://www.fiixsoftware.com  and https://www.softwareadvice.com  offer some free tools to help in making this decision.

“Follow the instructions” sounds a little basic when it comes to these massive machines, but manufacturers’ recommendations are essential to getting the full lifetime out of your heavy equipment. Adhere religiously to care suggested in the owner’s manual supplied with your machines. Never skimp on routinely replacing fluids and parts and remember that the proper storage of your off-season machines is critical. Following these guidelines will help to ensure the longevity of your equipment and ultimately your business.

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Winter maintenance and storage list for your heavy duty equipment
Heavy Equipment Uncategorized
November 10, 2021

Ready for Winter? Check the List!

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Emily Bieger

Whether you’re working or storing your heavy duty construction and landscape equipment, it’s time to prepare for the cold months and prevent some major expenses. Start working now through the winter maintenance list to get the best out of your machines this season and next:

Look Over Your Equipment

A careful visual check of your machinery will protect you from endless regrets when revving up for the spring season.

  • Fluid levels – Look carefully at fluid levels and adjust accordingly, either for winter work or storage.
  • Hoses and belts – Hydraulic hoses often crack in colder temperatures, so use arctic hydraulic oil in order to prevent this. Address any cracks or worn parts you see and replace as necessary.
  • Tires – We all know they will lose pressure more quickly in the winter months, so check that pressure before every use and fill with air in a heated area for better and longer-lasting results. Filling with dry nitrogen gas is a viable alternative that helps prevent ice crystals from forming in the valve stems.

Install

  • Proper lubricants – When checking levels of each lubricant, make sure it properly flows off the dipstick. If it doesn’t, you may be using the wrong product for your machine. Always follow manufacturer’s suggestions.
  • Add starting fluid only while the engine is cranking and always at room temperature.
  • Use and store Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) wisely. In excessively cold temps, DEF will freeze (12 degrees or lower), and it thaws as well. Store appropriately so that it does not burst during expansion.

System Inspection

  • Ensure that radiator coolant is filled to the cap and secured for proper pressure relief.
  • Starters and batteries will be cranked nearly twice as much in colder months in order to turn over. Storing the battery indoors and fully charged when the machinery is not being used will extend the life of both.
  • Undercarriage – Excessive snow, ice, and salt residue will quickly erode the undercarriage of your vehicle. Make sure it is rinsed and stored properly after each winter use or before cold weather storage.

Temperature Safe Storage

If you are completing your list in order to store your fleet for the winter, wise storage is the key to a quick and uneventful upstart in the spring. Detach attachments and store away both machines and attachments, fluids and oils, in room temperature to avoid winter damage and freezing.

Careful care of your heavy duty equipment now will afford a quicker start to your success in the spring! We at CMI want the very best for you and your business each and every season!

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423-975-9111
Parts & Service
M-F 7am-5pm
M-F 8am-5pm
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blake@cmicase.com
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