How to Winterize Your Drill Rig
- Traxxon Rock Drills
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Cold Weather Is Coming — Is Your Rig Ready?
Winter can be one of the toughest seasons on your drilling equipment. Low temperatures, moisture, and frozen ground can take a toll on hydraulic systems, engines, and components if they’re not properly prepared. Taking time now to winterize your rig helps prevent costly downtime, extend equipment life, and keep your operation running smoothly all season long.
Here’s a complete checklist to help you prepare your equipment for the cold:
1. General Preparation
Clean the rig: Thoroughly wash the entire machine, especially the undercarriage and tracks, to remove mud and debris that can freeze and cause damage.
Inspect all components: Check hoses, seals, and fittings for rust, cracks, or wear. Cold weather makes materials more brittle, so replace anything showing signs of damage.
Store indoors if possible: Keep the drill in a warm, dry facility to protect it from the elements. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, use high-quality covers or tarps to shield critical components.
2. Fluid Systems
Hydraulic System
Change to winter-grade oil: Replace standard hydraulic fluid with a low-viscosity, winter- or arctic-grade oil (e.g., ISO VG 32) for optimal cold-weather performance.
Warm the system: Run the rig under a light load to circulate and warm the fluid before full operation.
Inspect hoses carefully: Cold temperatures can make them more prone to cracking or leaks.
Water/Mud System
Drain thoroughly: Open all drain valves to remove residual water or drilling fluid from the mix system, pumps, and hoses.
Flush with fresh water: Clean out remaining mud or fluid to prevent buildup.
Blow out lines: Use compressed air to ensure all lines are completely dry, especially in low points where water can pool and freeze.
Engine and Fuel Systems
Switch to winter-grade or synthetic oil: Helps the engine start easier and reduces wear.
Check coolant/antifreeze: Maintain a proper 50/50 mix for your expected temperature range.
Use winter diesel or anti-gelling additives: Prevents fuel from thickening in low temperatures.
Top off tanks: Reduces condensation and water buildup.
Drain water separators daily: Keeps the system clean and prevents freezing issues.
3. Electrical and Other Components
Batteries
Keep batteries charged: Cold weather reduces capacity, so ensure they’re fully charged.
Store correctly: If not in use, remove and store batteries indoors, or use a trickle charger.
Clean terminals: Remove corrosion for reliable starts.
Lubrication
Use low-temperature grease: Apply to all joints, hinges, and moving parts to block moisture and prevent stiffness.
4. Operational Tips for Winter
Warm up the rig: Allow hydraulic oil and engine fluids to reach optimal temperature before use.
Use block heaters or pre-heating systems: Makes cold starts easier and extends engine life.
Daily inspections: Check fluid levels, filters, and lines for leaks or ice buildup.
Stay Ready with Traxxon
Whether you need hydraulic service, winter-grade lubricants, or replacement parts, we're here to help you keep your operation running through the cold months.
Book your winter maintenance today or contact our service department for more information.
604-437-7625 | 1-800-877-7757
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