Cold days a comin'.

Routine checks and services won't hack it when it comes to interim high-mobility engineer excavator PM during cold weather. Read the good info in TM 5-2420-23010 and keep these pointers in mind.

Rough Start?

Operators, your excavator could be hard to start when the temperature drops below freezing.

Some IHMEEs have a ether canister that automatically injects ether into the engine for cold weather starting.

If your excavator is hard to start, chances are the ether canister is empty. Have your mechanic check it to be sure.

Drain Out Water

Warm days and cool nights form condensation in the excavator's fuel tank. That means you have to drain the fuel/water separator before the day's run.

Not draining the separator will leave water and crud in the vehicle's fuel system. Then the engine runs rough, or not at all.

Open the separator (located on the engine's road side) by turning its drain-cock counterclockwise. Use a clear container to catch the fuel. If the fuel is clear, you're OK. If the fuel doesn't run clear, close the valve and report it to your mechanic. Clean up your mess and dispose of rags properly.

Store drained fuel in an approved hazardous waste container. Never dump it down a drain or on the ground.

Starter Reminder

It's a known fact that more engine starters end up at support for service and repair during cold weather.

All it takes is one itchy finger stuck on the starter switch to burn out a good starter motor.

So, when you try to start your excavator's engine, never keep the starter engaged for more than 15 seconds. Stop! Then give the starter at least two minutes to cool off before trying again.

If the IHMEE won't start after three tries, call it quits. Call in your mechanic to find out what's wrong.