Need ideas prepping for winter

[fred.hayfarm]

I am a new owner, new to tractors, new to hydraulics, and new to diesel. I have a New Holland TC29D with 400 hours. I would like to use it this winter for snow removal and I have two concerns: hydraulics and diesel (should I have others?)

How should I prepare for operating in temps from 0-30? Should I change the hydraulic oil. Is this a DIY or pro job? I had a full change at 350 hours, so I will be throwing away a lot of good oil.

When should I switch over diesel from #2 to #1? Do I have to drain the existing fuel, or can I blend it as the temp drops? I am getting summer fuel from my neighborhood gas station. Is this a good source for winter grade, or should I go to some other source? If so, what would that be?

Any advice beyond this would be most appreciated.

Thanks,

Fred

 

[Duffster]

No need to change anything hydraulic wise

Just treat the normal #2 and you will be good to go

 

[ccsial]

You have about the same temp range as us in winter. (0-30f)

I run Delvac one synthetic. You want an oil that is thin when cold. Use a winter motor oil. The hydraulic oil is fine as mentioned above.

I add Howse diesel treat to keep from gelling. There are other additives for that purpose too.

I plug in the block heater for a few hours. It starts much happier that way. Then I let it warm for about five minutes.

1200 hours and around 25 years on the 1910 and still running great.

 

[Tig]

I treat my leftover summer fuel in the fall. Plug in the block heater before I start.
Welcome to TBN Fred.

 

[Danno1]

.

Fred,

Check the Oil/Fuel/Lube forum. There's a ton of info there.

>

 

[LBrown59]

I am a new owner, new to tractors, new to hydraulics, and new to diesel. I have a New Holland TC29D with 400 hours. I would like to use it this winter for snow removal and I have two concerns: hydraulics and diesel (should I have others?)

How should I prepare for operating in temps from 0-30? Should I change the hydraulic oil. Is this a DIY or pro job? I had a full change at 350 hours, so I will be throwing away a lot of good oil.

When should I switch over diesel from #2 to #1? Do I have to drain the existing fuel, or can I blend it as the temp drops? I am getting summer fuel from my neighborhood gas station. Is this a good source for winter grade, or should I go to some other source? If so, what would that be?

Any advice beyond this would be most appreciated.

Thanks,

Fred

Read my Post on the fuel subject.

 

[LBrown59]

TractorByNet.com - Search Forums

 

[fred.hayfarm]

Thanks for all the info. I have enough leads to keep me busy until fall.

Thanks again,

Fred