How to Prepare Heavy Equipment for Winter Transport in Northwestern Ontario

Winter Heavy Hauling Challenges in Northwestern Ontario

Moving excavators, bulldozers, and heavy earthmoving equipment during Northwestern Ontario winters is not like standard summer float operations. Freezing temperatures on Highway 11 and Highway 17 bring ice, slush, and frozen mud that can compromise traction during loading.

1. Track & Wheel Clearing Before Loading

Before driving an excavator or crawler tractor onto a lowboy float deck, all packed snow and ice must be cleared from the grousers and undercarriage. Frozen mud chunks can act as roller bearings on a steel or hardwood deck, causing slippage.

2. Hydraulic Beaver-Tail Ramp Pre-Inspection

Hydraulic fluid thickens significantly in sub-zero weather. Operating beaver-tail ramps requires warming up the hydraulic system before lower and raise cycles to ensure smooth, controlled ramp angles.

3. High-Test Chain & Binder Securing

Grade 70 or Grade 80 transport chains must be used and checked periodically during transit. Metal contracts in extreme cold, so tensioners and binders must be re-torqued after the first 25 kilometers of travel.

"A frozen deck combined with uncleared track shoes is the single biggest safety hazard in winter heavy transport. Taking 10 extra minutes to clean grousers saves hours of dangerous recovery."

Summary Checklist Before Calling Dispatch

• Clear tracks and buckets of packed ice & frozen earth
• Ensure articulation locks and boom pins are engaged
• Verify clear access path to the loader deck
• Have transport permits ready if moving oversized blades or booms