Sometimes, your machinery must sit idle for extended periods, and outdoor storage can be a practical, cost-effective option, depending on certain factors. Proper preparation for storage can impact your equipment’s performance, longevity, and safety when it comes time to take it back out.
If you work with heavy construction equipment or industrial electrical gear, here are some tips to prepare heavy machinery for outdoor storage. These steps provide valuable safeguards to protect your investment and ensure it’s ready to work when you bring it out of storage.
Inspect the Equipment for Damage Before Storage
The first thing you should do before storing your equipment is conduct a thorough inspection. If you’re putting a machine into storage, you may have recently finished using it, which means it went through some general wear and tear. This is a great time to check it for any issues so you can fix them now rather than weeks or months later.
Look at the components for cracks, leaks, or loose parts, and give them a touchup if necessary. Identify any damaged hoses, belts, or exposed wires, as these can deteriorate further when exposed to outdoor conditions. Sitting in storage for extended periods can worsen these problems, leading to costlier and more difficult repairs when you need to use the machine again.
Clean the Machinery Thoroughly
After inspecting your machinery, give it a thorough cleaning. Dirt, grease, or other debris may contain moisture, which can result in rust or corrosion while in storage. Use a pressure washer to get rid of stubborn grime, and remember to pay attention to hard-to-reach areas like joints or hoses.
Avoid hosing down delicate components when working with electrical equipment, and clean those spots with condensed air instead. Let machinery fully air dry, or manually dry it with a microfiber cloth to remove leftover moisture that can cause problems later.
Protect Exposed Metal Surfaces
After cleaning and drying your machinery, focus on protecting metal components that may rust in storage. You may want to apply an inhibitor or protective grease to protect exposed parts like bolts, rods, or other fittings. Similarly, larger surfaces may benefit from a protective spray or coating to protect it from the weather. This step goes a long way in preventing corrosion, especially if you expect your machinery will encounter rain, snow, or other adverse conditions throughout storage.
Check Fuel and Fluid Levels
It’s always a smart idea to top off fuel and other fluids before putting your machinery into long-term storage. Emptier tanks have more room to develop condensation inside, potentially leading to corrosion. If you have diesel machinery, add a stabilizer to protect the fuel from contamination.
Change engine oil and hydraulic fluids to remove contaminants that can cause wear while the machinery is idle. It’s a good idea to check that the coolants and lubricants of electrical equipment are in good shape before putting them into storage.
Disconnect or Protect Batteries
One tip for preparing heavy machinery for outdoor storage is to disconnect the battery. This not only prevents it from draining but limits the chances of it shorting out or corroding. After removing the battery, store it in a cool, dry place on a raised surface to maximize its lifespan.
If you can’t disconnect the battery, you may want to attach it to a trickle charger to keep it in good shape. Check the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean them if needed, and use a protective cover to shield the battery compartment from moisture and dirt.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
You should always check your machinery’s tire pressure before putting it into storage. Make sure the pressure matches the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Underinflated tires can lead to uneven wear and reduced performance, while overinflation increases the risk of bursting.
A tire gauge makes it easy to monitor levels and adjust when necessary. Check the tires regularly, and add air if needed when storing your equipment over an extended period. It’s also a good idea to keep your tires clean and free from debris so that nothing gets into the treads or sidewalls. Whenever possible, store your equipment on a flat, stable surface to prevent the tires from deforming and prolong their lifespan.
Create a Setup and Maintenance Checklist
Keep detailed written logs of your machinery before and during storage. Accurate recordkeeping can save you a lot of time and hassle when it’s time to resume operations. Take note of things like fluid levels, which systems are operating as intended, and what sort of protective measures you used. A detailed checklist makes it easier to perform inspections and identify the source of issues. By tracking maintenance, you can quickly detect issues as they arise.
Schedule Periodic Inspections During Storage
It’s important not to neglect your machinery while it’s in storage. Checking on things every two weeks or once a month allows you to catch potential issues. For example, you may notice peculiar leaks or growing rust spots in an early inspection that could have become far worse down the line.
Create an inspection schedule, and keep written records of seals, fluid levels, and system concerns. By sticking to a routine, you can address minor problems early and prevent costly repairs. Documenting your inspections makes it easier to monitor your equipment’s condition and see where you may need to pay special attention during maintenance.
Keep Your Machinery in Peak Condition
Properly preparing heavy machinery for outdoor storage minimizes downtime and long-term wear, ensuring that your equipment is ready to perform when you need it.
From the early stages of pre-storage inspections to regular upkeep while your gear is in storage, you can keep things running smoothly no matter what type of machinery you’re working with. Following these best practices allows you to extend the lifespan of your machinery and save on repair costs. Put these tips into action today to safeguard your investment and enhance operational efficiency.
Looking for a reliable solution to store your equipment? ARS Contracting offers secure and efficient commercial storage space in Chicago to meet your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your machinery and keep your business running smoothly!
