Much like your other equipment, skidders require regular springtime maintenance to work their best. Keep your machine equipped for any job by following our maintenance tips below:
Daily Inspections
This may seem like overkill, but your skidder works hard. Doing an inspection each day will help ensure there are no issues overlooked. Here’s a list of components to check:
- Inspect tires for damage and proper tire pressure.
- Check hoses for cracks or leaks.
- Check fluid levels.
- Grease moving parts as necessary.
- Check air filters and vents for any buildup.
- Examine blade and grapple for cracks and abnormal wear.
Routine Maintenance
Don’t skip out on regular maintenance. By sticking to a maintenance schedule, your skidder will keep running smoothly. You’ll want to:
- Change the oil and replace filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Flush the hydraulic system when needed.
- Grease joints and pivot points regularly.
- Tighten loose bolts to maintain stability.
Keep It Clean
Dirt and debris can lead to blockages, rust and wear later on. After projects, you’ll want to wash it all off to prevent problems down the road.
- Focus on areas around the engine and hydraulic components.
- Inspect your coolers to allow needed airflow.
- Replace air filters to keep airflow steady.
- Check your A/C and heater systems for proper performance.
- Wipe down controls and the operator’s cabin to reduce dust.
Address Issues Early
If you spot a problem, fix it right away. Waiting too long can turn a minor issue into a costly repair.
- Keep an ear out for strange sounds that could signal a problem.
- Take note of issues like reduced power or slow hydraulics.
- Check warning lights on the control panel.
Get Professional Help When Needed
With regular care and quick action when issues arise, your skidder will stay in peak condition. Make these practices a habit to extend the life of your machine and keep it ready for work.
While you can do maintenance in-house, it’s best to have the professionals do it. Reach out to your local Triad Machinery today, and we’ll keep your equipment going all season long!
