15. LONG-TERM STORAGE 15.1 BEFORE STORAGE When putting the machine in storage for a long time, do as follows. After every part is washed and dried, house the machine in a dry building. Never leave it outdoors. If the machine must be left outdoors, park it on well-drained concrete and cover it with canvas, etc. Completely fill the fuel tank, lubricate, and change the oil before storage. Apply a thin coat of grease to the metal surface of the hydraulic piston rods. Disconnect the negative terminals of the battery and cover it, or remove it from the machine and store it separately. If the ambient temperature is expected to drop below 0°C, always add antifreeze to the cooling water.
Lock dump lever with the safety lock, and apply the parking brake. Set the tire inflation pressure for each tire to within the range of the specified inflation pressure for the type of tire. Open the drain valve of the air tank, release the air, then tighten the drain valve again. Push the retarder control lever forward to the OFF position. Place the shift lever at the N position and turn the starting switch OFF. 15.2 DURING STORAGE WARNING If it is unavoidably necessary to carry out the rust-prevention operation while the machine is indoors, open the doors and windows to improve ventilation and prevent gas poisoning.
Operate the engine and move the machine for a short distance once a month so that a new film of oil will be coated over movable parts and component surfaces. At the same time, also charge the battery. Before operating the work equipment, wipe off the grease on the hydraulic piston rod. 2-102