When it comes to storing heavy equipment outdoors, failing to take proper precautions can lead to rust, mechanical issues, or even theft. Whether you’re a construction manager or a farm owner, outdoor storage requires more than just parking your machinery and hoping for the best.
The following five smart tips will help you protect your heavy equipment from weather damage and security risks, ensuring it remains in top shape when you need it next.
1. Clean and Service Your Equipment Before Storage
Dirt, mud, and debris can cause corrosion or mechanical problems if left on your equipment for long periods. Before storing heavy equipment outdoors, thoroughly clean and service the machinery:
- Wash and dry: Remove caked-on mud, grease, and dirt. Pay special attention to the undercarriage and moving parts.
- Inspect for damage: Check for any cracks, leaks, or wear. Address minor issues now so they don’t worsen during storage.
- Change fluids and filters: Old oil or fuel can become acidic or absorb moisture. Change engine oil, top off fluids, and consider adding a fuel stabilizer if the equipment will remain unused for a long time.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply grease or lubricant to hinges, joints, and other moving components to prevent rust and seizing.
Performing this maintenance ensures your equipment is in prime condition before braving the outdoor elements. A well-cleaned and serviced machine will better resist corrosion and operational issues during its time in storage.
2. Choose an Ideal Outdoor Storage Location
Not all outdoor spots are equal when it comes to heavy equipment storage. Select a location that will minimize exposure to hazards:
- Solid, level ground: Park on a level surface with firm ground. This prevents the machinery from sinking into soft soil after rain and helps keep heavy equipment stable outdoors.
- Elevation and drainage: If possible, choose a slightly elevated spot to avoid water pooling around the equipment. Good drainage will reduce moisture around tires and metal parts.
- Avoid under trees or hazards: Trees might seem to offer shade, but they can drop branches or sap onto your equipment. Instead, pick an open area away from potential falling debris.
Being strategic about where you park makes storing heavy equipment outdoors safer and reduces the wear caused by ground moisture and unexpected environmental hazards.
3. Shield Your Equipment from Harsh Weather
Exposure to rain, snow, sun, and wind can quickly deteriorate heavy machinery left outside. Shield your equipment from the elements as much as possible:
- Use quality covers or tarps: Covering your equipment helps keep out rain and snow, preventing rust and water damage. Ensure the tarp is heavy-duty and tightly secured so it won’t blow away in strong winds. (Leave some space for airflow to prevent moisture buildup under the cover.)
- Guard against UV exposure: Sunlight can crack tires and fade paint. If a full cover isn’t feasible, at least cover sensitive parts like seats, electronics, and hydraulics, or consider a fabric structure or portable canopy for shade.
- Winterize for cold weather: In freezing temperatures, protect batteries by disconnecting or removing them and storing them in a warmer place. Also, check antifreeze levels and use engine block heaters if necessary to prevent fluids from freezing.
Taking these steps will help extend the lifespan of your machinery by reducing direct exposure to harsh weather. Even though it’s outdoors, your equipment will have a layer of defense against Mother Nature.
4. Safeguard Your Equipment to Prevent Theft
Outdoor storage can attract unwanted attention. Construction equipment and tractors are valuable, and thieves may target unattended machines. To keep your heavy equipment safe outdoors:
- Remove keys and power: Always take the keys with you and, if possible, disconnect the battery or remove critical fuses to prevent an easy startup.
- Lock it up: Use steering locks, wheel locks, or even heavy chains and padlocks on excavator tracks or backhoe loaders. Some equipment has built-in lockout features – make sure to use them.
- Surveillance and lighting: Store the equipment in a well-lit area or install motion-sensor lights. If feasible, set up security cameras focused on the storage site. Even a dummy camera or a “24/7 Surveillance” sign can deter thieves.
- Fencing or barriers: If the equipment will be in one spot for a long time, consider temporary fencing around it or park smaller machines in a way that blocks in larger ones, making them harder to remove.
Taking security seriously when storing heavy equipment outdoors significantly reduces the risk of theft or vandalism. A bit of prevention goes a long way to protect these expensive assets.
5. Check on Your Equipment Regularly
Out of sight should not mean out of mind. Periodic check-ups are a smart strategy to ensure your heavy equipment stays in good condition:
- Start it up periodically: Run the engine at least once every week or two. This keeps the battery charged and fluids circulating, and prevents seals from drying out. Plus, you’ll notice if anything is wrong.
- Inspect covers and seals: Make sure tarps are still secure and no water has seeped in. Check that all caps, doors, and windows are closed and sealed to keep out critters and moisture.
- Monitor tire pressure: Tires can slowly lose pressure when sitting. Keep them properly inflated, or take the weight off the tires using blocks or jack stands to prevent flat spots.
- Look for pests: Rodents sometimes nest in machinery. Examine wiring and compartments for signs of chewing or nesting and use repellents if needed.
Regular attention will help catch potential problems early. If you notice rust forming or parts deteriorating, you can address these issues before they become serious. Essentially, even while storing heavy equipment outdoors, act as if the machine is still in active use for care and inspection.
Conclusion
Storing heavy equipment outdoors is feasible and safe if you take the right precautions. These 5 tips — from thorough cleaning and choosing the right spot, to weather protection, securing the equipment, and ongoing check-ups — will keep your machinery protected through the seasons. By investing a little time and effort in preventative measures, you ensure that your heavy equipment remains ready to roll when you need it again, saving you from costly repairs or downtime.
If you found these tips useful, put them into practice the next time you’re storing heavy equipment outdoors. For more information or professional assistance with heavy equipment maintenance and storage, contact our team of experts. We’re here to help you keep your big machines in top-notch condition, rain or shine!