Cold Weather Maintenance and Operation Tips for Compact Utility Loaders

Winter’s arrival signals a shift in the landscape for contractors. As temperatures plunge, the ground freezes solid and snow and ice become commonplace. Keeping operations productive requires a strategic approach to equipment. Compact utility loaders (CULs) — also known as compact tool carriers, mini skid steers or mini track loaders — have long been year-round workhorses. Since their introduction by Toro to the North American marketplace several decades ago, their versatility and footprint in North America has only grown, making them even more indispensable for winter tasks, from routine jobsite work to critical snow and ice management.

The compact footprint and maneuverability of CULs truly shine when space is at a premium due to snow accumulation or in tight residential areas. Equipped with the latest attachments and leveraging advancements in technology, today’s CULs are more capable and comfortable than ever in challenging winter conditions.

Elevating Cold-Weather Performance: What’s New and What to Look For

The evolution of CULs has brought significant enhancements, particularly in features designed to improve cold-weather performance and operator comfort. When considering new equipment or optimizing your existing fleet, focus on these key advancements:

• Advanced Traction Control and Undercarriage Systems: While tire chains still offer reliable traction for wheeled CULs in snow and wet conditions, track systems on CULs continue to get better and better. Modern track patterns offer superior grip and stability, not only offering remarkable traction but a smoother ride that absorbs more vibration and stress from uneven, frozen terrain. This makes long shifts more comfortable and productive for operators.
• Intelligent Cold Start Systems: Reducing the risk of cold-weather starting failures is paramount. Beyond traditional engine choke systems for gasoline models and glow plugs for diesel, manufacturers have integrated more intelligent cold-start features. These systems often include gradual motor speed increases and engine preheating capabilities that extend beyond just glow plugs, preparing the engine and hydraulic fluids for optimal performance, even in frigid conditions. For extreme cold storage, magnetic engine heaters (for diesel oil pans or hydraulic tanks) remain a valuable off-board solution to ensure fluids are warm enough for seamless starts.
• Optimized Power and Hydraulic Management: Today’s CULs are smarter than ever at adapting to demanding conditions. Power optimization systems proactively adjust machine speed and engine output to prevent bogging down in heavy snow or ice. This ensures consistent performance and protects the hydraulic system from damage that can occur when cold fluids are pushed through at high speeds.
• Enhanced Operator Comfort and Control: Operating in winter means battling the elements. Recent advancements have significantly improved the operator experience:
  • Ergonomic Controls for Gloved Operation: The design of joysticks and other controls has evolved to be more intuitive and user-friendly, even when operators are wearing bulky winter gloves. Manufacturers like Toro are prioritizing easy-to-reach, intuitive controls, streamlining setup and minimizing time spent exposed to the cold.
  • Visibility: When compared to their larger skid steer loader cousins, compact utility loaders have a built-in advantage when it comes to visibility. Because the operator can simply turn their body to look behind them, they are able to confidently avoid obstacles in low light and snowy conditions.
• Expanded Attachment Offerings: The versatility of CULs is largely defined by their attachments. For winter operations, new and improved attachments provide greater efficiency:
  • Advanced Snow Pushers and Blades: Beyond standard snow buckets, dedicated snow pushers allow for longer passes and more effective snow removal. Many now feature bolt-on cutting edges (steel or rubber) and adjustable wear skids to adapt to various surfaces and protect the attachment.
  • High-Performance Snowblowers: Redesigned snowblower attachments offer massive intake heights, rapid impeller speeds and compatibility with high-flow auxiliary hydraulics for maximum throwing power. These attachments are especially useful for deep or compacted snow.
  • Multi-Functional V-Blades: These attachments offer hydraulic angling to four positions (straight, V-configuration, scoop and 30-degree left/right), providing ultimate flexibility for different snow conditions.
  • Specialized Angle Brooms: Ideal for clearing light snow, dirt and debris from sidewalks and paved areas that require complete removal from the surface, broom attachments are an excellent option for the snow and ice contractor to consider.

Optimizing Winter Operation: Best Practices for Longevity and Productivity

Even with the most advanced equipment, proper maintenance and operational habits are critical for maximizing uptime and extending machine life in cold weather.

• Warm Up Wisely: When starting an engine in cold conditions (especially at or below freezing), allow the machine to run at mid-throttle for two to five minutes before increasing to high throttle. This gentle warmup allows hydraulic fluids to circulate and reach optimal operating temperature.
• Diesel Winter Needs: Diesel fuel is particularly susceptible to gelling in cold temperatures. While winter-blend diesel, typically available from mid-September, includes additives to lower the gel point and improve cold flow, always ensure you’re using clean, fresh fuel with ultra-low sulfur content and a cetane rating of 50 or higher. For extreme cold, consider fuel additives specifically designed to lower the fuel gel point and boost cetane for enhanced cold starting. Never add additional additives to pre-blended fuel, as this can lead to issues like clogged filters.
• Battery Care Is Crucial, Especially for Electric
  • Traditional Batteries: Keep lead-acid batteries fully charged to prevent damage when temperatures drop below freezing, as cold significantly reduces their cranking power.
  • Lithium-Ion Batteries (Electric CULs): The electric compact equipment market has grown significantly in the past four years. While electric CULs offer zero emissions and quiet operation, cold weather does affect lithium-ion battery performance. They can discharge at a quicker rate in temperatures around 32°F (0°C) and colder, potentially reducing runtime.
  • Storage and Charging: Whenever possible, store electric CULs indoors overnight to maintain battery temperature. If outdoor storage is necessary, the battery is protected from damage in very cold weather by simply not powering the machine or accepting a charge until it warms up. When charging, slower charging options are often recommended in cold weather, as rapid charging can put more stress on a cold battery. Always ensure charging stations are protected from moisture.
• Daily Maintenance Ritual: Regardless of the season, consistent daily maintenance is non-negotiable. In winter, this includes:
  • Thorough Visual Inspections: Look for ice buildup, damaged hoses or loose connections.
  • Fluid Checks: Ensure all fluids (engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant) are at appropriate levels and are the correct viscosity for cold weather.
  • Filter Cleanliness: Keep air and fuel filters clean to ensure optimal engine performance.
  • Proper Lubrication: Apply grease to all pivot points and moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent seizing in the cold.
  • Safety Checks: Verify all lights, alarms and safety interlocks are functioning correctly.

By embracing these maintenance practices, leveraging the latest advancements in technology and attachments and prioritizing operator comfort and safety, snow and ice contractors can transform winter’s challenges into opportunities — keeping their compact utility loaders working hard and profitably all season long.

Sam Dando is a senior product marketing manager at Toro.