When March comes, people start to think about spring, but anyone who owns a tractor, plow truck, or utility vehicle knows that winter isn't over yet. Late-season snowstorms can come on quickly and hit hard. The last thing you want is for your equipment to break down when you need it most.
Your machines are under a lot of stress when it's cold, there's a lot of snow, and you have to stop and go all the time. Parts that were still working in December and January often break down just when you need them. Taking care of things now can save you time, money, and missed jobs later on when you have to make emergency repairs.
Before the next storm comes, you should check these important parts and replace them if they need it.
Batteries and electrical parts
Batteries don't work well in freezing weather. When it's cold, the cranking power drops a lot, and older batteries often die without warning. Don't take the chance if your equipment takes a long time to start or needs a boost.
Check:
Charge and terminals for the battery
Rust on wires
How well the starter and solenoid work
By replacing weak electrical parts now, you can be sure that your car will start reliably when the temperature drops overnight.
Fittings and hoses for hydraulic systems
Hydraulics are very important for snowplows, loaders, and lift systems. Rubber hoses become brittle in cold weather, which makes cracks and leaks more likely. A hose that bursts in the middle of a storm can stop your work.
Check for:
Cracking or dry rot
Fittings that leak
Spots that are soft or swollen
Anyone who uses snow equipment often should keep extra hoses or replacements on hand.
Wear Parts, Cutting Edges, and Skid Shoes
Your plow's cutting edge and skid shoes get a lot of wear and tear from ice, gravel, and pavement. When the edges are worn down, the scraping doesn't work as well, and the machine has to work harder, which uses more fuel and puts more stress on the plow frame.
It's time to replace them if you see that they're wearing unevenly or not clearing as well. New wear parts mean cleaner lots, quicker jobs, and less stress on your tools.
Chains and traction parts for tires
Traction is everything in snow and ice. Chains that are worn out or broken make it harder to steer and make it more likely that you will get stuck, especially on slopes or driveways.
Before it snows again:
Check for links that don't work
Tighten loose chains
Replace sets that are broken
Good traction keeps your schedule and your equipment safe.
Before You Need It, Stock Up
Many operators make the mistake of waiting until something breaks. Parts sell out quickly when storms hit, and shipping delays can cost you a lot of time.
Having spare parts on hand, like belts, filters, hoses, electrical parts, and wear items, lets you fix problems right away and get back to work.
You can't predict late winter storms, but you can count on your equipment to work. A quick look and a few planned replacements can keep everything running well until spring finally arrives.
Reliable Aftermarket Parts has the parts you need to stay ready for anything the season throws your way.