While going through the Operators Manual for the 8T No.12 Motor Grader I came across one sentence that mentioned keeping the Hi-Lo shifter engaged while the engine is running. It states this must be done to keep the transmission properly lubricated. I thought I would share this information with other Cat No.12 enthusiasts.
If this is the case in extremely cold weather the Diesel engine has an increased drag while starting. My process of starting begins with checking the transmission to make sure it is disengaged. Now in extremely cold weather I tweaked the process, at this point, to include kicking the Hi-Lo transmission in to neutral. This will decrease any extra drag. Once the Diesel engine has started the Hi-Lo can be reengaged while the engine warms up.
I did not see the same information for the 9K Operators Manual.

 

In extreme cold weather I had a 4x2 cut to the proper length to hold the clutch depressed. That helped alot in the ponys ability to turn the big engine.

FD, that is good information. By a stroke of pure dumb luck I never shift the high low into neutral on the 112 as I have never started it below 15 degrees F. Here in Kansas if it snows it usually never gets bitterly cold. It always started with the extra drag and no problem.