Winter Maintenance Tips – Tracked Dumpers

Winter's here, and with it comes the need to look after your gear. For those running Cormidi and Canycom tracked dumpers, a bit of proactive maintenance now will save you headaches later. Cold weather can be tough on machinery, so let's get into what you need to do to keep your dumpers earning their keep.

Check & Protect Your Battery

Cold temperatures knock down battery performance. Check your battery voltage regularly. Make sure the terminals are clean and connections are solid. If your dumper's sitting idle for a while, use a smart charger or disconnect the battery to keep it healthy.

Keep Tracks Clean & Tensioned

After each run, wash off any mud, ice, or gravel from your tracks. Buildup causes damage to rollers and the undercarriage. Check track tension often; cold weather can cause tracks to shrink or slacken. Grease your track tensioners and look for any cracks or uneven wear.

Grease All Moving Parts

Cold weather makes grease thick. Where you can, use a winter-grade lithium grease. Focus on all pivot points, the dump bed hinges, rollers, and the undercarriage.

Fuel System Care

Always run your dumper on clean, fresh diesel (Canycom) or petrol (Cormidi). Water condensation is more likely to build up in cold fuel tanks. Think about adding a fuel treatment to stop gelling or moisture issues. If your machine has water separators, drain them regularly.

Cold Start Considerations

For diesel models, let the engine glow plugs fully cycle before you crank the engine. Don't rev the engine hard straight from cold. Let it idle for a minute or so to warm up the fluids properly.

Hydraulic System Check

Cold can thicken hydraulic oil. Check levels and consider a winter-grade oil if you're working in sub-zero conditions. Run the machine at low speed until the oil warms up for smooth operation.

Store Smart

If your dumper's parked outside, cover the control panel and seat. This protects them from frost and rain. Use chocks on slopes; icy ground can reduce brake hold. If your dumper's not being used for long periods, start it weekly and let it get to full operating temperature.

Visual Inspections

Look for cracked hoses, brittle wiring, or worn pins. Cold stress can make small problems worse. Make sure all your lights, alarms, and safety features are working. This is crucial when light conditions are poor.

Taking a bit of time now for these checks will ensure your Cormidi or Canycom dumper is ready for whatever winter throws at it. What other power equipment do you rely on during the colder months?

Need parts, servicing, or a new machine for winter?

Visit our website or give us a call today -- we've got the expertise and the gear to keep you going all season.