EXPERT ADVICE
Once the chilly season starts claiming the paving season and contractors start preparing to shut down , there are a few steps that need to be taken to ensure a smooth start come spring . . . a checklist for winterizing the equipment and business . “ The first priority we recommend is to take your machine to an authorized dealer to fully inspect and service it so that it is ready for spring start up ,” said Mark Bolick , manager of product support , LeeBoy , Lincolnton , N . C . “ The reason is that the dealer ’ s technicians will see and address any problems that may not be seen by the end user . Too many times a company will wait until spring and try to get the dealer to perform this service and run into longer wait times due to the volume of work the service department has at this time causing delay in the start time for that company ’ s season .” If a trip to the dealer is not an option , a contractor will want to inspect all wear and moving parts and replace / repair as needed . A thorough cleaning of the machine to remove all old material from the paver and coat with a release agent for storage is something an equipment dealer would perform . “ In terms of a winterizing checklist ,” Bolick said , “ here are some key actions a contractor should take with their asphalt paver before the winter shut down :
• Grease entire machine
• Retract all cylinders if possible
• Add anti-gel to fuel tank and fill with fuel . Then , run machine 20 minutes to be sure the additive is circulated through
the engine fuel system
• Cover control panels , screed and operators controls
• Float charger on batteries
• Anti seize on all exposed screws . Flight screws , end gate lift and tilt
• Set screed on blocks so it ' s not in contact with ground over the winter
• Lubricate all roller chains and spray down conveyor chains with release agent ” At season ' s end , a thorough machine
For More Information On This Advertiser Please Visit www . CallAPE . com / e-inquiry
1.800.210.5923 [ 13 ]
November 2020