LOAD KING 80-160, Operator'S Manual

Page: 217 / 369

217
Cold Weather Package Recommendations
For the operation and maintenance of your crane in cold weather, the information will cover from 0° C
(32° F) to -40° C (-40° F). When you operate your crane in temperatures above 0° C (32° F), refer to
your Load King Operator’s & Shop Manuals.
Make sure you read and understand the information in Cold Weather Package Specifications
on page 216 on the Cold Weather Package requirements for operations to -40°C (-40°F). If your crane
does not have this package installed, use the information in this document as a guide to properly
setup, operate and maintain your crane at these cold temperatures. Use of the fluids recommended
and installation of the specific heaters can be ordered from your Load King Parts Department.
Install the correct lubricant in each area of the crane, engine, hydraulic tank, fuel, axles, bearings,
bushings, winches, swing drives and steering fluid.
All batteries should be fully charged and electric blanket plugged in to correct voltage source.
Fill the fuel tank at the end of each shift.
Check the air cleaner and air intake daily. Keep any snow clear of the air intake.
When driving, your hydraulic steering gearbox can be slow to react to your steering wheel movement
due to the low temperatures, even with the lower viscosity oils.
If the engine is started, run the engine until the engine reaches operating temperature. Achieving
operating temperature will help prevent the intake valves and exhaust valves from sticking.
The cooling system and the lubrication system for the engine do not lose heat immediately upon
shutdown. The transmission and the hydraulic system lose heat more rapidly because of the exposed
areas. Gear cases cool rapidly, since the gear cases do not operate as warm as other components.
Thus, the engine can be restarted after shutdown for a couple of hours but the other systems will
require exercising (cycling) upon starting.
Fluid Recommendations
Before attempting to start the engine, make sure that the oil in the engine, the oil in the transmission
and oil in the hydraulic system are fluid enough to flow. Check the oil by removing the dipstick. If the oil
will drip from the dipstick, then the oil is fluid enough to start the engine. Do not use oil that has been
diluted with kerosene. Kerosene will evaporate in the engine. This will cause the oil to thicken.
Kerosene will cause swelling and softening of the silicone seals.
If the viscosity of the oil is changed for colder weather, also change the filter element. If the filter is not
changed, the filter element and the filter housing can become a solid mass. Drain all hydraulic
cylinders and lines. After you change the oil per recommendations in Cold Weather Package
Specifications on page 226, operate the equipment in order to circulate the thinner oil.
The number of acceptable lubricants is limited in arctic conditions and deviations of these lubricants
must be approved by Load King Service Department.