Winter Operation Tips: Maintaining Your Crushers & Screens in Cold Weather

When temperatures drop, your equipment faces new challenges. At Apache Iron Works, we build crushers and screens tough enough for winter, but even the best machines need smart maintenance to thrive in cold conditions. From engine fluids to structural fatigue, here is how to keep your equipment running smoothly all season long.

Cold Weather Maintenance Essentials

Lubrication & Fluids

• Use winter grade lubricants: Standard oils and greases thicken in low temperatures, reducing flow and increasing wear. Opt for hydraulic and engine oils rated to negative 30 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
• Check fluid levels daily: Cold air increases the chance of condensation in reservoirs, which can lead to rust and contamination.
• Warm hydraulic tanks: In extreme cold, heated tanks or inline warmers can help maintain proper fluid viscosity.

Engine Warm-Up

• Start with a slow idle: Allow your equipment to idle for 10 to 15 minutes before full operation to ensure oil and coolant reach optimal temperature.
• Cycle hydraulics gradually: Ease into full power to prevent pressure spikes and internal damage.

Snow, Ice & Cleanliness

• Clear off all buildup: Ice and compacted snow around belts, decks, and sensors can cause misreads or breakages.
• Do not run frozen systems: If components are stuck together with ice, manually defrost before operating.

Watch for Wear & Fatigue

• Inspect metal parts weekly: Steel becomes more brittle in the cold, check for cracks, especially on frames and wear plates.
• Rubber parts: Cold temperatures stiffen rubber. Replace cracked or brittle belt skirting and gaskets early.

Electrical System Readiness

• Charge batteries nightly: Low temperatures drain battery capacity fast. Keep spares charged and store indoors when possible.
• Inspect terminals and diagnostics: Corrosion and loose connections are more likely to cause failure in freezing weather.

Cold Weather Checklist

Before Daily Use

• Check oil and hydraulic fluid levels
• Inspect belts and screens for ice buildup
• Warm up the engine and hydraulic system
• Clear snow from guards and undercarriage
• Confirm battery voltage and connections

Weekly

• Inspect wear surfaces for cracks or corrosion
• Check belt tension and rubber parts for damage
• Test remote diagnostics or telematics alerts

Why Apache Equipment Thrives in Winter

Apache Iron Works machines are designed for all season use with:

• Cold rated hydraulic components
• Heated options for fuel and fluids
• Quick access panels for easy field service

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need winter grade lubricants for my equipment?

Standard oils and greases thicken in low temperatures, which reduces flow and increases wear. Winter grade hydraulic and engine oils rated to negative 30 degrees Fahrenheit or lower keep your system running properly in the cold.

How long should I let my equipment idle before running it at full power?

Let it idle for 10 to 15 minutes before full operation so the oil and coolant reach the right temperature, then cycle the hydraulics gradually to avoid pressure spikes and internal damage.

Why is it important to clear ice and snow off belts, decks, and sensors?

Ice and compacted snow buildup can cause misreads or breakages. Equipment should never be run while components are frozen together, defrost them manually first.

Does cold weather affect the metal and rubber parts on my crushers and screens?

Yes. Steel becomes more brittle in the cold, so frames and wear plates should be inspected weekly for cracks, and cracked or brittle belt skirting and gaskets should be replaced early.

How does cold weather affect equipment batteries?

Low temperatures drain battery capacity fast, so batteries should be charged nightly, spares kept charged, and stored indoors when possible.

What features help Apache equipment perform well in winter?

Apache Iron Works machines are built for all season use with cold rated hydraulic components, heated options for fuel and fluids, and quick access panels for easy field service.

Ready to Get Your Equipment Winter Ready?

Need help prepping your system for winter? Request a quote from Apache Iron Works to schedule a pre-season service check, or call 307-772-4563 to talk to an Apache equipment advisor.