Preheating the Hydraulic System: Rapid operation when the hydraulic oil temperature is low can damage the hydraulic system.
1. Run the mini excavator engine at medium speed and operate the bucket to preheat it.
2. Lift the machine and rotate the tracks to preheat the left and right travel motors respectively.
3. Then, increase the engine speed to maximum and operate the bucket and stick continuously for 5 minutes.
During preheating, pay close attention to the surrounding environment. In low temperatures, human reaction time is relatively slow; avoid bumping into people or objects during preheating.
Preheating the Mini Excavator Engine: The first step is to start the engine and run it at low speed for 5 minutes. During engine preheating, perform the following checks:
1. Check if the oil warning light is off.
2. Check for oil or water leaks.
3. Check if the engine sound and exhaust color are normal.
4. Check if the charging indicator light is off.
5. Check for any abnormalities in any part of the machine.
If the mini excavator is not used during winter, it should be properly stored and maintained. To ensure optimal performance upon reuse, the following maintenance measures are recommended:
1. Clean the surface of the mini excavator of dirt and check for any loose fasteners.
2. Check the antifreeze and engine oil levels. Check the engine oil quality and the antifreeze level of the fuel.
3. If the weather is particularly cold and the mini excavator will be idle for an extended period, drain the engine coolant completely. To prevent battery drain, remove the battery and store it in a warm place.
4. Start the engine periodically. If the antifreeze and engine oil levels are below normal, add coolant to the correct levels before starting. In cold weather, place the key in the preheating position until the preheating light illuminates (repeat this preheating process several times), then start the engine. Let it idle for 5-10 minutes, then operate each cylinder without load 5-10 times, each stroke being 5-10 mm less than the maximum stroke. Finally, operate each cylinder rapidly at maximum engine speed 5-10 times, simultaneously operating the left and right rotation and forward and backward movement 3 times each. Continue operating until the system temperature reaches 50-80 degrees Celsius before normal operation. Continue operating all working devices for 5-10 minutes, then stop the engine.
5. Replace the diesel fuel with a -10 to -30 grade, depending on the region. Further north, use diesel with a higher grade. Also, replace the diesel fuel filter, and replace the engine oil with locally suitable thickened engine oil. Replace the oil filter as well. Address any leaks in the hydraulic system promptly. If possible, insulate the fuel tank.
6. Carefully inspect the cooling system for aging and breakage of the hoses. Replace any faulty hoses immediately, as these are more prone to problems in winter. If hot water is available, add hot water to the radiator daily for better engine starting, but remember to drain the water afterwards. Adding antifreeze is not recommended because it makes starting the engine more difficult in extremely cold regions.
