Operating in Cold Weather
Preparing for Cold Weather
In cold weather, it may be difficult to start the
engine and the coolant may freeze. Make the
preparations described below.
Changing the Fuel and Lubricant
Change the fuel, hydraulic oil and engine oil
to types suited for cold conditions.
Refer to page 104, “Lubricant and Fuel
Chart.”
Engine Coolant
WARNING
The coolant is combustible. Keep flames
away.
Use long-life coolant (antifreeze) and tap
water for the engine coolant.
Supplement: New machines are delivered
with JIS Type 2 long-life coolant (antifreeze)
at a concentration of 50%.
Refer to page 104, “Lubricant and Fuel
Chart.”
Battery
As the temperature drops, the battery
performance decreases.
Inspect the battery. If the charge is low,
contact a Gehl dealer to have the battery
charged.
Refer to page 130, “Inspecting the Battery
Fluid Level and Replenishing.”
Cautions after Completing
Operations
Heed the following to prevent dirt, water, or
other objects being stuck on the machine as
well as the lower chassis from freezing:
Remove any dirt or water from the
chassis.
In particular, water droplets on the
hydraulic cylinder rod surfaces could
freeze, and if dirt and ice enter into the
seals, the seals could break.
Park the machine on a dry, hard surface.
If no appropriate place can be found, put
boards down and park on the boards.
Drain any water from the fuel tank to
prevent freezing.
Refer to page 132, “Draining the Fuel
Tank.”
To prevent decreased battery performance,
place a cover over the battery or remove
it from the machine and store it in a warm
place.
Also add battery fluid before starting the
next morning. If battery fluid is added after
completing operations, the distilled water
may not mix, resulting in freezing.
After Cold Weather is Over
Perform the following after cold weather is
over:
Change the fuel and the oils for those
specified on the Fuel and Lubricant
Chart.
Refer to page 104, “Lubricant and Fuel
Chart.”
When using one-season type antifreeze
coolant, completely drain the antifreeze
coolant, carefully clean the inside of the
coolant system, then add tap water.
Refer to page 142, “Cleaning the Engine
Cooling System.”