Hot Weather Care: Engines & Hydraulics in Perth Summers

Perth summers regularly push machines hard: high temperatures, dust and long days. A few habits keep engines and hydraulics healthy.

Cooling system

• Check coolant level before every start (only when the engine is cold).
• Blow out or wash radiator and oil cooler fins — dust, grass seeds and leaves block airflow.
• Inspect hoses and the fan belt for cracks and wear.

Air filters

• Dusty sites clog filters quickly — check them more often than the standard interval.
• Replace rather than over-clean paper elements, following the manual.

Hydraulic system

• Keep hydraulic oil at the correct level; low oil runs hotter.
• Use the hydraulic oil grade specified in the manual.
• Watch for slowing functions, which can signal overheating.
• Avoid holding functions against their stops (over-relief) — it generates heat.

Working smarter in the heat

• Schedule heavy digging for mornings.
• Let the engine idle for a short period after heavy work before shutting down.
• Park in shade during breaks.
• Keep water on site and take breaks — operator heat stress is a real risk.

Fire risk

• Clean dry grass and debris from around the engine bay and exhaust.
• Check your local shire's harvest and vehicle movement bans on high fire danger days.
• Carry a fire extinguisher on rural jobs.

See also the maintenance checklist.