Caring for any heavy machinery or equipment used in construction and landscaping is considered part of the maintenance of any business, especially when it comes to its material investments.
However, many people forget that part of maintaining machinery also includes the proper care and maintenance of skid steer attachments. These attachments can be interchanged, no matter the make and model of your skid steer, which make it all the more important to maintain them properly.
Some attachments might be more affordable as they can be purchased second hand, but this only means they require more care. So how can you expand the service life of these tools but still use them efficiently and properly in your projects?
Read and Follow the Manufacturers’ Guidelines
Though many people know this, very few do follow it. Before using skid steer attachments, make sure to read the guidelines, especially if you are using different brands or types of attachments from your skid steer.
Always look for the maintenance guidelines, especially when it comes to procedures and intervals for cleaning and storage. Many user’s manuals include suggestions on where to grease skid steer attachments, but also when to schedule servicing and the proper storage of these attachments.
Proper Cleaning and Lubrication
When using any attachment for any project, you know that they are exposed to the elements, dust, soil, heavy rocks, boulders, and all kinds of debris. So these means contaminants can enter the crevices and joints of any attachment.
This makes them very susceptible to corrosion and premature wear, especially if proper cleaning is not done regularly. One way to do so is to use a pressure washer or compressed air pressure to remove all of these materials out of the smallest crevice.
But cleaning isn’t enough. Proper greasing of any metal attachment is vital to keep the moving parts moving as designed. Properly lubrication provides protection from friction and corrosion, which can improve an attachment’s performance.
Inspection Before and After Use
You also need to check your attachments regularly, and this means doing it before and after use. Doing it before allows you to check for damages or signs that might prevent you from using it properly. It also protects you and any operator from accidents due to damaged attachments.
After use you need to clean it first and then check for areas where components are loose, or wear and tear are visible. This includes checking the hydraulic hoses and the fittings, so you know that you are storing an attachment that is perfectly sound.
Storage
Skid steer attachments have to be stored in an area that is clean and dry, and where they are protected from the elements. It’s best to have a covering for them too, so dust and debris will not accumulate on their surfaces.
Proper storage will prevent corrosion and ensure the functionality of the attachment even after long storage. However, if you think that your attachments have not been used for a long time, it’s best to check them to see if they are still in good condition.
Check the hydraulics, especially the hoses for tears and damage. Sometimes long periods of storage can damage these parts, and so you might need to check them regularly to see if they need to be replaced.
Attachments are Investments Too
Heavy machinery for your business is an investment, but that also includes equipment and tools used with them too, such as skid steer attachments. Caring for skid steer attachments is essential for ensuring their longevity and optimal performance, and doing these things is only common sense for any business owner.
