Test Blog Post

Colder temperatures, sleet, snow and salt can all harm compact construction equipment in winter — and failing to take adequate precautions can lead to excess wear, costly repairs and downtime.

Use this guide to dig into winter so your machines stay ready, your crews stay productive, and your investment stays strong.

Which engine, hydraulic, and coolant fluids should I run in cold weather?

Cold temperatures thicken oil and hydraulic fluid, making them harder to circulate and increasing wear. The fix is simple: Follow Cat^® cold weather recommendations found in your Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM)^*, and warm fluids properly before heavy work.

^*Pro Tip: Did you know you can view your Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM) from anywhere using the Cat Central App?

Recommended steps:

• Engine oil: Use the viscosity grade recommended for your machine and winter temperatures (e.g., multigrade 10W 30 vs. 15W 40). Consult your OMM to confirm the correct viscosity for your specific machine.
• Hydraulic oil: Before testing or heavy operation, warm hydraulic oil to normal operating temperature by moving attachments like buckets at elevated idle. Remember to check your OMM to verify the correct operational temperature recommended for your machine.
• Coolant: While the machine is cold, locate the coolant reservoir and ensure your coolant is topped up to the correct level. Use Cat extended life coolant (ELC) or equivalent coolant. Using the right coolant and concentration prevents freeze damage and protects the system.

Limited-time offer

For a limited time, take 20% off fluids on parts.cat.com^*

Use code WINTER20

^*Offer subject to change. Terms apply.

Shop Fluids

Why is greasing components after every use critical in winter?

Cold weather doesn’t just affect fluids and batteries—it also impacts lubrication. Grease is your first line of defense against friction, corrosion, and premature wear. In winter, moisture, salt, and freezing temperatures can wash away or harden grease, leaving pins, bushings, and joints vulnerable.

Here’s why daily greasing matters:

• Prevents metal-on-metal wear: Grease cushions moving parts like pivot pins and loader arms, reducing friction and extending component life.
• Blocks moisture and salt: Fresh grease creates a barrier against water and corrosive road salt, which can quickly damage exposed joints.
• Maintains smooth operation: Cold temperatures can stiffen grease, so replenishing it after each use ensures proper flow and coverage.
• Reduces costly repairs: Neglecting lubrication accelerates wear, leading to expensive downtime and part replacements.

Best practice:

• Use the grease type recommended in your Cat^® OMM.
• Apply grease after every use, especially in wet or salty conditions.
• Wipe fittings clean before greasing to avoid pushing contaminants inside.

Limited-time offer

For a limited time, take 20% off grease on parts.cat.com*

Use code WINTER20

*Offer subject to change. Terms apply.

Shop Grease

Why are filters (oil, air, fuel) even more critical in winter?

Salt, moisture and debris accelerate contamination. Fuel gelling and water can quickly clog filters; air restrictions starve engines; dirty oil accelerates wear.

Recommended steps:

• Replace fuel filters and drain water separators on schedule; keep spares on the service truck.
• Change oil and air filters per the OMM and more frequently if operating in sleet/salt.

How do I keep batteries and electronics reliable in freezing temperatures?

Cold slashes available battery power and stresses electrical systems. A battery that seems “fine” in summer can fail to crank in winter.

Recommended steps:

• Test and charge batteries; keep them warm if possible. Cat guidance notes a steep drop in cranking power as temperatures fall.
• Replace old batteries that are near the end of their life. This will ensure reliable starts, prevent unexpected downtime, and protects your equipment’s electrical system in cold conditions. Running a worn battery can add extra strain onto your alternator and electrical system.
• Clean terminals/cables and remove corrosion. Cat’s battery guide also outline best battery maintenance and charging practices.

Limited-time offer

For a limited time, take 20% off batteries on parts.cat.com^*

Use code WINTER20

^*Offer subject to change. Terms apply.

Shop Batteries

How do I protect the undercarriage (or tires) in snow, ice and slush?

Undercarriage components see more wear than any other part of track machines—winter compacts the risk with mud, packed ice, abrasive grit and corrosive de icers.

Recommended steps:

• Inspect daily: Track tension, rollers/idlers, debris packing, cracks, and tire pressure (PSI drops with cold).
• Clear packed material (snow/mud) that forces misalignment and accelerates wear; dealer guides offer wear reduction techniques and track adjustment procedures.
• Schedule a professional undercarriage inspection annually or before heavy winter use.

Limited-time offer

For a limited time, take 20% off undercarriage components on parts.cat.com^*

Use code WINTER20

^*Offer subject to change. Terms apply.

Shop Undercarriage

How long should I let machines warm up, and what’s the safest way to start in extreme cold?

Starting and immediately loading a cold machine can blow hoses, seals, and o rings. Warm up methodically.

Recommended steps:

• Engine warm up: Low idle for several minutes; in extreme cold use block heaters (1,250–1,500 W typical) to improve startability and reduce warm up time. Avoid excessive idling beyond what your OMM prescribes.
• Hydraulic warm up: Cycle implements to raise hydraulic oil to operating temperature (e.g., 130–140°F), then proceed to work; Cat procedures detail safe steps for different machines.
• Starting aids: Follow OMM instructions; never combine ether with air inlet heaters—this can be dangerous.

How do I prevent salt corrosion and keep machines clean without creating new problems?

Salt plus moisture is highly corrosive, attacking undercarriage, frames and electrical connectors. Regular cleaning protects performance and resale value.

Do this:

• Pressure wash the undercarriage, wheel wells and hard to reach areas after exposure; Cat offers practical guidance on cleaning heavy equipment to reduce downtime and fire risk.
• Apply protective coatings and keep lights, mirrors and cameras clean to maximize visibility.

Why are properly functioning lights on heavy equipment essential for winter work?

Winter brings shorter days, longer nights, and unpredictable weather—conditions that can drastically reduce visibility on the job site. Rain, fog, sleet, snow and early sunsets make it harder for operators to see hazards and for others to see your equipment. That’s why keeping your lights in top condition is critical for safety and productivity.

Here are a few reasons lights matter in winter:

• Improved visibility in low light: With daylight hours limited, reliable work lights ensure operators can see the work area clearly, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Enhanced safety for everyone: Bright, functioning lights make your equipment visible to other machines, vehicles, and workers, preventing collisions.
• Compliance with regulations: Many job sites require proper lighting for night or low-light operations—non-functional lights can lead to downtime or fines.

Best practice:

• Inspect all lights daily including headlights, work lights, and warning lights.
• Clean lenses regularly to remove dirt, salt, and snow buildup.
• Replace burned-out bulbs immediately and consider upgrading to brighter LED lights.

Limited-time offer

For a limited time, take 20% off lights on parts.cat.com^*

Use code WINTER20

^*Offer subject to change. Terms apply.

Shop Lights

Quick FAQs for operating heavy equipment in winter

• “Do I need to change oil viscosity just because it’s cold?”
  Match viscosity to your temperature band per the OMM; multigrade oils are formulated for broad ranges, but your selection must follow Cat tables.
• “How long should I warm up before pushing hard?”
  Warm the engine at low idle, then cycle hydraulics until oil reaches operating temp (~130–140°F). Only then apply heavy loads.
• “Can I just let the machine idle for a long time to keep it warm?”
  Avoid extended idling. Cat warns it can cause sludge, injector fouling and increased oil consumption. Use block heaters and methodical warm up instead.
• “What if DEF freezes in the tank?”
  Let the machine’s DEF heater thaw it; don’t add chemicals. Leave headspace to prevent damage and replace DEF if quality doesn’t recover after thaw.
• “How often should I check undercarriage in winter?”
  Daily for packing, cracks, and tension; schedule a dealer inspection before or during the season for track machines.
•  “Any tips for tires?”
  Inflate in a heated bay for better bead seating; cold drops PSI quickly. Inspect frequently.

The importance of planned maintenance in winter for your construction equipment

Planned maintenance should be recurring throughout the year so your construction equipment is ready for winter and performing at its best year-round. Often, problems that appear during winter are more indicative of neglect as opposed to colder temperatures and poor weather.

If you’re not already following your equipment’s scheduled service intervals, give the Carolina Cat service team a call at (704) 440-5601 or contact us online today. We can put together a comprehensive planned maintenance plan for your entire fleet that simplifies your service requirements and saves you money, all year long.