14. COLD WEATHER OPERATION 14.1 PRECAUTIONS FOR LOW TEMPERATURE If the temperature becomes low, it becomes difficult to start the engine, and the coolant may freeze, so do as follows. 14.1.1 FUEL AND LUBRICANTS Change to fuel and oil with low viscosity for all components. For details of the specified viscosity, see 20. “USE OF FUEL, COOLANT AND LUBRI- CANTS ACCORDING TO AMBIENT TEMPERATURE”. 14.1.2 COOLANT NOTICE Never use methanol, ethanol or propanol based antifreeze. Absolutely avoid using any water leak preventing agent irrespec- tive of whether it is used independently or mixed with an anti- freeze. Do not mix one antifreeze with a different brand.
For antifreeze mixture requirements, see “20. USE OF FUEL, COOLANT AND LUBRICATION ACCORDING TO AMBIENT TEMPERATURE” 14.1.3 BATTERY When the ambient temperature drops, the capacity of the battery will also drop. If the battery charge ratio is low, the battery electrolyte may freeze. Maintain the battery charge as close as possible to 100%, and insulate it against cold temperature so that the machine can be started easily the next morning. REMARK Measure the specific gravity and calculate the rate of charge from the following conversion table. PC450-ENG 2-85 WARNING Keep antifreeze fluid away from an open flame. Never smoke when using antifreeze.
WARNING • To avoid gas explosions, do not bring fire or sparks near the bat- tery. • Battery electrolyte is dangerous. If it gets in your eyes or on your skin, wash it off with large amounts of water, and consult a doctor. WARNING Temp. of fluid Rate of charge 20°C (68°F) 0°C (32°F) -10° (14°F) -20° (-4°F) 100% 90% 80% 75% 1,28 1,26 1,24 1,23 1,29 1,27 1,25 1,24 1,30 1,28 1,26 1,25 1,31 1,29 1,27 1,26