Six Mistakes To Avoid When It Comes To Maintaining Skid Steer Attachments
Skid steer attachments are essential for carrying out everyday work tasks at your facility. You need to make maintaining your attachments a priority to keep productivity up and to reduce equipment costs.
The following are six mistakes you need to avoid regarding the maintenance of skid steer attachments to maximize equipment lifespan and prevent malfunctions.
Applying an inadequate amount of lubrication
Lubricating skid steer attachments is a relatively inexpensive and simple thing to do to prevent malfunctions.
Applying grease lubricant helps to slow rust development. It also reduces mechanical wear on attachments over time. You need to choose between multi-purpose, heavy-duty, and high-performance lubricant depending on the equipment model and operating conditions you're working with.
Neglecting to read the manufacturer's manual
Don't underestimate the importance of simply reading the manufacturer's manual. There are a lot of key maintenance tips included in the manual that you might not already be aware of.
Every skid steer attachment is different. It's therefore important not to generalize regarding attachment maintenance. Reading the manufacturer's manual clues you in to the maintenance needs for the unique equipment model you're using at your facility.
Failing to perform routine inspections
It's best to have routine inspections performed every single time your skid steer attachments are put to use.
Inspections should include looking out for worn bushings and pins. Inspections should also include checking to see if bolts are tight and security features like safety shields are properly positioned. Another thing to look out for during inspections is excessive tension in any chain drive components of your attachments.
Allowing hoses to become pinched
Some of the most common skid steer attachment malfunctions involve hydraulic hoses that have not been properly routed between components. You need to route hoses between the attachment and the lift arm so that hoses don't become pinched and create excessive pressure buildups that cause malfunctions.
Leaving equipment unsecured before moving it
Moving equipment without first securing attachments and other moving parts increases the chances of damage that leads to a malfunction. Transporting unsecured equipment can also create a safety hazard.
Be sure to secure skid steer equipment parts before you move them to maximize equipment lifespan and avoid damage that requires costly and time-consuming repairs.
Storing skid steer attachments in harsh environments
Avoid storing skid steer attachments outside whenever possible. Ideally, you should always be storing your attachments in a climate-controlled environment.
Also, you should protect your attachments from moisture exposure when they're in storage to minimize your chances of dealing with corrosion development.
