Snow and ice management done well includes a solid and proactive maintenance and storage plan for equipment in the off-season. Your most critical snow and ice implements, plows and spreaders, must be stored properly to get the most life possible out of them. Here are some tips:
- Remove spreaders, plows and other equipment from vehicles, and clearly label each implement so it’s easy to find for inventory and pre-season setup the following year.
- Repair any damaged equipment now, do not wait until the fall. For spreaders, check the augur/hoses/spinners especially for damage or wear and tear.
- For all equipment (including skid steer loaders etc.) that use hydraulics, check fluids and all hydraulic hoses. Replace any hoses that are cracking or corroding due to use.
- Power wash all equipment that was used in snow work, especially any equipment that was exposed to salt and other deicing products.
- Neutralize equipment to remove excess salt, and apply rust preventative to plows and spreaders especially.
- Paint any equipment that needs it after cleaning/neutralizing takes place.
- Store plows and spreaders in a secure, dry location with cover from the elements if at all possible.
Keeping your snow equipment in top-notch shape is essential to long term success!
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