By Jonathan Gardner, Construction Equipment Product Manager at Kubota Canada
As temperatures begin to drop and the days shorten, it’s a clear signal the equipment storage season is near. This transitional period is an ideal opportunity to carry out thorough end-of-season maintenance on your equipment ensuring your fleet is primed and ready to perform when spring arrives.
Cleaning
Construction equipment faces constant exposure to harsh elements like dust, mud and debris – conditions that, if left unchecked, can accelerate wear and invite corrosion. Establishing a seasonal cleaning routine that includes full debris removal and a comprehensive wash of both exterior surfaces and undercarriages is a key preventative step. These maintenance practices not only preserve equipment integrity and enhance performance but also ensure your machines stay in top shape, whether stored away or operating through the winter months.
Maintenance
Effective fleet management means scheduling proactive maintenance in the slower seasons when possible. Proactive care in the off-season helps avoid unexpected downtime and costly repairs, keeping your machines operating at peak efficiency. These measures extend equipment lifecycle and directly influence total cost of ownership, which are critical considerations for decision-makers tasked with managing budgets and optimizing utilization.
Consider completing the following tasks:
- A full mechanical inspection: Check critical components like belts, hydraulic hoses, bearings and brakes, paying special attention to worn items often overlooked during peak operations on aging equipment.
- Tires and tracks checks: Maintain correct inflation, prevent flat spots or track damage during storage by inspecting for cuts, punctures, wear and proper inflation.
- Scheduled service: It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Be sure to change engine and hydraulic oils, replace filters, inspect the air intake system and keep all grease points properly lubricated.
Storage
Proper storage techniques safeguard your equipment’s longevity through winter downtime. Ensure your equipment is ready for use as soon as the spring arrives by:
Topping off the engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant and transmission fluid to appropriate levels and adding fresh fuel and stabilizer to the fuel tanks. Run the engine for at least five minutes to allow the stabilizer to enter the rest of the fuel system. If you’re planning on storing your equipment for a while, most stabilizers claim to keep fuel good for up to 24 months.
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Another option is to syphon the fuel out of the tank and run the machine until it’s dry. While this process takes time, it provides the comfort of adding fresh fuel come spring. However, if you plan on moving your machine at all, this wouldn’t be the best move.
Whenever possible, storing equipment indoors is preferable as this offers protection from the elements and reduces the likelihood of animal interference.
However, if indoor space is limited, it’s important to take proactive steps when storing your machinery outdoors. Use breathable covers to shield your equipment and conduct regular inspections for signs of animal activity or fluid leaks. Placing drip trays or cardboard beneath equipment can help identify issues early and keep your fleet in good condition throughout the off-season.
By completing these end-of-season maintenance steps, equipment owners and managers effectively safeguard their investments. This strategic approach reduces lifecycle costs, boosts reliability and positions fleets to perform efficiently and competitively when the next season begins.
