Winterising your equipment helps you avoid costly repairs, minimise downtime, and keep your machine running smoothly throughout the season. In this article, we’ll explore the key steps involved in winterising your Vermeer drill, as well as why it's crucial to prepare your drill for the cold.
You can also watch our visual guide here.
Why winterising your Vermeer drill matters
Cold weather can take a toll on your Vermeer drill if it’s not properly prepared. Hydraulic systems can freeze, fuel lines can become clogged, and batteries can lose their charge faster in freezing temperatures. Winterising your drill ensures that it operates at peak performance and avoids unnecessary risks, keeping your projects on track even in the harshest conditions.
1. Protect your fluid systems
Fluids play a vital role in the operation of your Vermeer drill, and cold weather can cause them to thicken or freeze. This can lead to slower hydraulic response times or, in the worst case, a complete system failure. It’s crucial to check your hydraulic fluids and drilling mud before the cold sets in.
Switch to low-viscosity hydraulic fluid that’s designed for winter conditions. This will prevent freezing and ensure the smooth operation of your drill's hydraulic system. Also, remember to top up drilling fluid levels and check for leaks. Leaks can lead to environmental issues and reduce the effectiveness of your drilling process.
Tip: The American Petroleum Institute (API) recommends using hydraulic fluids rated for temperatures as low as -20°C to prevent freezing.
2. Battery care in cold weather
Cold temperatures can be brutal on your Vermeer drill’s battery. According to Battery University, cold weather can cause up to 35% reduction in battery capacity, which is why it’s crucial to maintain your drill’s battery properly in the winter months. A battery that’s already weakened or not properly maintained may fail to start in the cold. Check your battery for signs of corrosion, and clean the terminals thoroughly. Make sure the battery is fully charged and consider investing in a battery blanket to protect it from extreme cold.
It’s also a good idea to test the battery’s performance before the winter months hit. If your battery is near the end of its lifespan, now is the time to replace it to avoid unexpected downtime.
3. Prepare your engine for the cold
Your Vermeer drill’s engine is the powerhouse that keeps everything running, so it’s essential to give it special attention. Cold temperatures can cause engine fluids to thicken, affecting performance and efficiency. Check the engine oil and consider switching to a winter-grade oil that performs better in colder temperatures.
Also, ensure the air filter is clean, and inspect all hoses and fuel lines for cracks or leaks. It’s a good idea to add anti-gel additives to your fuel if you’re using diesel, as this will prevent the fuel from freezing or gelling in low temperatures. The Diesel Technology Forum advises that the use of anti-gel additives can improve diesel fuel performance by up to 40% in colder weather.
4. Inspect tyres or tracks
Whether your Vermeer drill uses tyres or tracks, it’s crucial to inspect them. Cold weather can cause rubber to become brittle, making it more susceptible to cracks and damage. For drills with tyres, check tyre pressure, as air pressure can drop in cold temperatures, affecting the overall performance.
If your drill is equipped with tracks, ensure that they are in good condition and not showing signs of excessive wear. If you're working in snowy or icy conditions, consider using snow chains to provide extra traction.
5. Lubricate all moving parts
Proper lubrication is key to preventing wear and tear on your Vermeer drill’s moving parts, especially in winter. Cold temperatures can cause grease to stiffen, so it’s important to use grease rated for low temperatures. Make sure that all critical components, such as augers, bearings, and swivel joints, are well-lubricated to reduce friction and prevent freezing.
6. Monitor the drill path and equipment regularly
Winter weather can introduce unexpected challenges when it comes to your drill’s path. Snow, ice, or frozen ground can all impact the drilling process. Regularly inspect the drill path and surrounding area to ensure it’s safe and clear of any obstacles that could cause damage or delays.
In addition, keep an eye on the equipment itself. Ensure that the cooling systems are working properly, as the machine may be under more strain in cold conditions. Frequent monitoring helps catch potential issues early before they become larger, more costly problems.
The benefits of winterising your Vermeer drill
Winterising your Vermeer drill helps mitigate risks and maximise efficiency during the colder months. Here are a few key benefits:
- Reduced downtime: A well-maintained drill is less likely to break down during critical projects.
- Extended equipment life: Taking care of your drill in the winter months helps ensure that it performs at its best for years to come.
- Improved performance: Proper winterisation helps maintain the efficiency of your equipment, reducing the chances of slowdowns and unnecessary repairs.
- Environmental protection: Keeping your fluid systems sealed and in good condition prevents leaks, which could harm the surrounding environment.
Winterising your Vermeer drill is an essential part of preparing for the colder months. By taking the necessary steps to protect your drill’s fluids, battery, engine, and moving parts, you can ensure it performs optimally and avoids unnecessary issues during winter operations. Contact us today to find out more, or learn about the benefits of using Vermeer HDD drills here.
Vermeer Corporation delivers a real impact on the way important work gets done through the design, manufacture and support of high quality industrial and agricultural equipment that helps connect people to the necessities of life, manage natural resources and feed and fuel communities. With a reputation for being built tough and built a better way, that equipment is backed by localized customer service and support provided by independent dealers around the world. To learn about Vermeer Corporation, products, the dealer network, financing options and careers, visit vermeer.com.