At Gwynedd Forklifts, we are always looking for new ways to help our customers. We have therefore created a list of things to considerto prepare your MHE fleet for winter.
As winter approaches, businesses relying on Material Handling Equipment (MHE) must prepare their fleets for the seasonal challenges ahead. Cold temperatures, icy conditions, and unpredictable weather can negatively impact the performance and longevity of your equipment. At Gwynedd Forklifts, we are always looking for new ways to help our customers. We have therefore created a list of things to considerto prepare your MHE fleet for winter.
Perform Thorough Inspections
Before the cold sets in, a comprehensive inspection of your MHE fleet is essential. Focus on:
- Batteries: Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity and performance, particularly for electric forklifts and other battery-operated MHE. Ensure batteries are fully charged, check for corrosion, and perform load tests to ensure they can hold a charge in cold conditions.
- Brakes: Ice, snow, and cold can affect braking efficiency. Inspect brake pads, discs, and fluids to ensure they are in good working order.
Tyres and Traction
Snow, ice, and wet conditions can lead to poor traction, which is particularly dangerous when operating heavy machinery.
- Tyre Tread: Check the tyre tread depth and wear, ensuring they provide adequate traction. For environments with heavy snow, consider switching to winter tyres.
- Tyre Pressure: Cold temperatures can cause tyres to lose pressure. Check and maintain tyre pressures regularly to prevent under-inflation, which can affect handling and increase wear.
Prepare for Cold Starts
Starting engines in freezing conditions can be difficult. To minimise wear during cold starts:
- Warm-Up Procedures: Instruct operators to let the engine warm up before starting full operation. This helps prevent damage to cold engine components and improves overall performance.
Cold Weather Operator Training
Operating MHE in winter conditions requires additional training for your team. Ensure that your machine operators are familiar with:
- Driving on Slippery Surfaces: Emphasise the importance of reducing speeds, using smooth and controlled movements, and being aware of the changing grip on icy surfaces.
- Battery Maintenance: Electric MHE will require more frequent charging in the cold, and operators should be trained on efficient battery management to prevent breakdowns.
- Visibility: Winter months lead to shorter daylight hours, so ensure that all lights are functioning, and even consider adding extra lighting for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
Shelter and Storage
Where your MHE fleet is stored can make a huge difference in winter performance.
- Indoor Storage: Whenever possible, store equipment in a climate-controlled (or at least covered) space. This helps to prevent exposure to freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, reducing cold-start issues and extending battery life.
- Outdoor Equipment: For equipment that must be stored outside, use weather covers or tarps to protect key components like the battery, engine, and controls from frost and moisture.
Stock Up on Spare Parts
Winter conditions increase the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. Ensure you have the correct spare parts on hand, including:
- Batteries and chargers
- Tyres and chains
- Hydraulic fluid
- Brake components
- Engine oil and filters
Conclusion
Preparing your MHE fleet for winter is crucial to maintaining productivity and avoiding costly breakdowns. By performing routine maintenance, investing in cold-weather accessories, and training your operators for winter conditions, you can ensure your fleet is ready to tackle the challenges ahead. Taking these proactive measures will lead to safer operations and a more efficient fleet throughout the winter season.
Don’t wait until the first snowfall – act now! Contact us today to schedule a fleet inspection, explore our winter accessories, or discuss operator training courses. Let’s work together to keep your operations running smoothly and safely all winter long!
