© 2021 Pierce Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Mid-Mount Ascendant Aerial Tower / 4-31
OPERATION
4-8.
Cold Weather Operation
During extreme cold weather, certain precautions must be applied to the operation and use of aerial devices. When
operation is necessary in extreme cold temperatures, use the following precautions:
•
Continued use of the aerial functions will circulate the oil, delaying the ambient temperature cooling effect.
•
Slow, attentive operation after a period of non-use will be less harmful to the device and may allow the operator
time to react to potential problems.
•
Continually monitor the hydraulic oil pressure gauge to warn of excessively high pressures that are building
during the operation of a function.
•
Pay particular attention to electric cables and hoses that are running up the aerial sections. These will become
stiff and want to take a set, causing them to track improperly.
•
The recommended minimum start-up temperature for the hydraulic system will vary according to the viscosity
grade class oil that is installed in your aerial. A label located on the hydraulic reservoir indicates the grade of oil
that is installed in your unit.
Read and follow the Aerial Operation in Cold Weather Safety instructions found in the Safety section
of this manual.
•
Operation in extreme cold weather may overload and/or damage the aerial.
•
Do not use multiple functions at the same time until the temperature is above the recommended
minimum start-up temperature, or pump cavitation and damage may occur.
•
Ice build up on the aerial waterway can cause damage to the seals, wear bands and main tubes
during extension and retraction.
•
Ice can form inside and between the waterway tubes. During freezing conditions it is best to
maintain water flow while extending or retracting the aerial. After flowing water when temperatures
are below freezing, immediately elevate and drain the aerial waterway. If ice exists between the
waterway tubes, extending or retracting the aerial will damage the waterway.
•
The Pierce Manufacturing warranty does not cover damage caused by extending or retracting a
frozen aerial.