Before operating a road grader in winter conditions, what should be ensured?

Ensuring that antifreeze has been added to the engine is crucial before operating a road grader in winter conditions. Antifreeze plays an essential role in preventing the engine from freezing and developing serious damage. It lowers the freezing point of the coolant, allowing the engine to operate effectively in sub-zero temperatures. If antifreeze is not present, the engine can freeze, potentially leading to coolant system breakdowns or engine failure.

While checking the other factors—such as the heater, tire inflation, and road conditions—are also important for safe and effective operation in winter conditions, ensuring the proper level of antifreeze directly protects the engine's functionality, which is critical for operation in severe cold. Therefore, adding antifreeze is a fundamental step that ensures the grader can operate reliably, avoiding potential operational issues.