10-26-2025, 08:23 PM
A versatile telehandler with winter challenges
The JLG SkyTrak 6036 is a widely used telehandler designed for construction, agriculture, and industrial applications. With a maximum lift capacity of 6,000 pounds and a reach of 36 feet, it has been a dependable workhorse since its introduction in the 1990s. Thousands of units have been sold across North America, where they are often used year-round, including in harsh winter conditions. While the machine is known for durability, operators frequently encounter steering issues when temperatures drop below freezing.
Terminology clarification
Operators report that when temperatures fall to around 32°F (0°C) or lower, the steering system becomes unresponsive for up to two hours until the machine warms up. During this time, other hydraulic functions such as fork tilt and frame leveling may still operate, though sluggishly. The steering circuit, however, is particularly sensitive to cold, leading to delays in operation and reduced productivity.
Underlying causes
Cold-weather hydraulic issues are not unique to the SkyTrak 6036. Similar problems occur in skid steers, excavators, and loaders when operated in freezing climates. For example, Caterpillar and John Deere recommend specific winter oils and preheating systems for machines used in Canada and northern U.S. states. Municipal fleets often equip graders and loaders with block heaters as standard practice to ensure reliable morning startups.
Anecdotes from the field
One contractor in Oklahoma noted that his SkyTrak required nearly two hours of warm-up before steering became functional on mornings below freezing. After switching to a lighter hydraulic oil and adding a block heater, the machine was ready within 20 minutes. Another operator in Minnesota reported that his telehandler’s steering froze completely until he installed a hydraulic tank heater, which eliminated downtime during snow removal operations.
Conclusion
The JLG SkyTrak 6036 remains a reliable telehandler, but like many hydraulic machines, it is vulnerable to cold-weather steering problems. The root cause is typically hydraulic oil viscosity and system sensitivity to freezing temperatures. By adopting winter-grade fluids, installing heaters, and maintaining clean hydraulic systems, operators can significantly reduce downtime and extend the life of their equipment. This case highlights the importance of adapting maintenance practices to seasonal conditions, ensuring that machines remain productive even in the harshest winters.
The JLG SkyTrak 6036 is a widely used telehandler designed for construction, agriculture, and industrial applications. With a maximum lift capacity of 6,000 pounds and a reach of 36 feet, it has been a dependable workhorse since its introduction in the 1990s. Thousands of units have been sold across North America, where they are often used year-round, including in harsh winter conditions. While the machine is known for durability, operators frequently encounter steering issues when temperatures drop below freezing.
Terminology clarification
- Telehandler: A telescopic handler combining forklift and crane functions, capable of lifting loads to extended heights.
- Hydraulic Viscosity: The thickness of hydraulic oil, which changes with temperature and directly affects system performance.
- Block Heater: An electric heating device installed on the engine or hydraulic reservoir to keep fluids warm in cold weather.
- Hydraulic Circuit: The system of pumps, valves, hoses, and cylinders that control steering, lifting, and tilting functions.
Operators report that when temperatures fall to around 32°F (0°C) or lower, the steering system becomes unresponsive for up to two hours until the machine warms up. During this time, other hydraulic functions such as fork tilt and frame leveling may still operate, though sluggishly. The steering circuit, however, is particularly sensitive to cold, leading to delays in operation and reduced productivity.
Underlying causes
- Cold hydraulic oil: Standard hydraulic fluids thicken in freezing temperatures, restricting flow through valves and cylinders.
- Oil contamination: Water or debris in the hydraulic system can freeze, blocking passages.
- Improper oil grade: Using oil with viscosity not suited for winter conditions can cause severe sluggishness.
- Aging seals and valves: Older components may contract in cold weather, further restricting movement.
- Switch to winter-grade hydraulic oil: Fluids with lower viscosity ratings (such as ISO 32 instead of ISO 46) improve cold-weather performance.
- Install a block heater: Preheating the engine and hydraulic reservoir reduces warm-up time dramatically.
- Use hydraulic tank heaters: Magnetic or immersion heaters keep oil at optimal temperature overnight.
- Regular maintenance: Drain and replace contaminated oil, clean filters, and inspect hoses for leaks.
- Operational adjustments: Allow the machine to idle and cycle hydraulic functions slowly before heavy use.
Cold-weather hydraulic issues are not unique to the SkyTrak 6036. Similar problems occur in skid steers, excavators, and loaders when operated in freezing climates. For example, Caterpillar and John Deere recommend specific winter oils and preheating systems for machines used in Canada and northern U.S. states. Municipal fleets often equip graders and loaders with block heaters as standard practice to ensure reliable morning startups.
Anecdotes from the field
One contractor in Oklahoma noted that his SkyTrak required nearly two hours of warm-up before steering became functional on mornings below freezing. After switching to a lighter hydraulic oil and adding a block heater, the machine was ready within 20 minutes. Another operator in Minnesota reported that his telehandler’s steering froze completely until he installed a hydraulic tank heater, which eliminated downtime during snow removal operations.
Conclusion
The JLG SkyTrak 6036 remains a reliable telehandler, but like many hydraulic machines, it is vulnerable to cold-weather steering problems. The root cause is typically hydraulic oil viscosity and system sensitivity to freezing temperatures. By adopting winter-grade fluids, installing heaters, and maintaining clean hydraulic systems, operators can significantly reduce downtime and extend the life of their equipment. This case highlights the importance of adapting maintenance practices to seasonal conditions, ensuring that machines remain productive even in the harshest winters.
