Safety Tips: Guidance on Operating JLG MEWPs in Cold Temperatures

Because the need to complete work overhead, or in the air, occurs year-round, in all temperatures and climate conditions, JLG® mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are designed for operation in nominal ambient temperatures of 0° to 104° F (-20° to 40° C).

At A Glance Temperatures

Extreme cold

To keep JLG MEWPs in good operating condition, as well as extending their life expectancy in extremely cold operating environments, the company recommends that the optional cold weather packages be utilized when working in ambient temperatures colder than 0° F (-20° C). Utilization (with or without the cold weather package) below 0° F (-20° C) shall be at the discretion of the owner/operator, given the condition and capability (engine oil specifications, hydraulic fluid specifications, etc.) of the equipment.

It is important to know that under no circumstances should any JLG MEWP be utilized in temperatures below -40° F (-40° C).

Extreme heat

When working in extremely hot operating environments, JLG recommends that the optional hydraulic oil cooler packages be utilized when working in ambient temperatures hotter than 100° F (38° C) or when driving for an extended period of time with hydraulic oil tank temperatures of 180° F (82° C) or above.

Please note that under no circumstances shall any JLG MEWP be utilized in ambient temperatures above 120° F (49° C).

Additional guidance

The MEWP owner/operators should use appropriate engine and hydraulic oils at all times based on ambient temperatures. For more information regarding appropriate oil selections.  

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