Skid Steer Attachment Maintenance

Skid steer loaders are incredibly versatile pieces of equipment. They can be used to move dirt, dig trenches, and even lift heavy objects. When equipped with highly-specialized skid steer attachments, the utility of these machines becomes even greater. They can revolutionize the efficiency with which your crews remove snow, install fences, remove stumps, engage in disaster cleanup, and much more.

That said, in order to keep these machines running smoothly, it’s important to pay attention to maintenance. Here are some of the most important maintenance tips for skid steer loader attachments.

Check Hydraulic Hoses

The hydraulic system is the heart of a skid steer. It’s responsible for powering all of the attachments, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition. One of the most important maintenance tips for skid steer attachments is to check the hydraulic hoses for signs of wear and tear. Look for any cracks, bulges, or leaks. If you spot any of these issues, it’s important to get them fixed right away.

Hydraulic hoses can also be subject to a variety of wear and tear, including pinching, kinking, and abrasion. If left unchecked, these issues can cause the hydraulic fluid, which is the lifeblood of your skid steer attachment, to leak out. Without proper fluid levels, your skid steer attachment won’t function correctly and will need to be repaired or replaced.

Regularly checking your hydraulic hoses is a simple and easy task that can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Make sure to inspect the hoses for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any issues, replace the hose immediately.

Note: NEVER attempt to inspect a skid steer attachment’s hydraulic hoses with bare skin. Use a piece of paper, cardboard, or wood to check a suspected leak, as pressurized hydraulic fluid can break the skin and potentially cause severe injuries.

Inspect the Attachment

Another important maintenance tip for skid steer attachments is to inspect the attachment itself. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or broken parts. If you spot any issues, it’s important to get them fixed right away.

Wear and tear is a natural part of using any tool or machine, and skid steer attachments are no exception. Over time, the components of the attachment can become worn or damaged, reducing its effectiveness and putting the safety of the operator at risk. Regularly inspecting your skid steer attachments can help you spot any potential issues before they become a problem.

When inspecting your skid steer attachments, you should look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or chips in the metal, frayed or worn cable, or loose bolts. You should also check the moving parts of the attachment to make sure they are functioning properly. If you notice any signs of damage or wear, it's important to replace or repair the attachment as soon as possible.

Clean the Attachment

It’s also important to keep your skid steer attachments clean. Dirt and debris can build up on the attachments over time, which can cause them to become less efficient. To keep your attachments in top shape, make sure to clean them regularly.

Not only will cleaning help prevent wear and tear, but it will also help increase the lifespan of your attachment. Cleaning the attachment regularly will also help ensure that it is working properly and not causing any damage to the skid steer.

In addition to preventing premature wear and tear on the attachment, keeping it clean and free of dirt, mud, and salt (which can attract and trap moisture) will also help prevent corrosion.

Check the Fasteners

It’s also important to check the bolts, nuts, pins, and other fasteners and couplings on your skid steer attachments. Make sure they’re tight and secure. If any of the bolts or nuts are loose, it’s important to tighten them right away. This can help prevent accidents and ensure that your skid steer attachments are working properly.

Regular inspections can help you identify any issues before they become a bigger problem. Not only will this help keep your equipment running smoothly, but it can also help prevent injuries and accidents.

When inspecting the fasteners on your skid steer attachments, be sure also to look for signs of wear, such as rust or corrosion, as well as any loose or missing components. If any of these issues are present, it’s important to replace the fasteners immediately. It’s also a good idea to check the torque of the fasteners to ensure that they are properly tightened.

Lubricate the Attachments

Another important maintenance tip for skid steer attachments is to lubricate them regularly. This will help keep the attachments in good condition and prevent them from rusting or corroding. Make sure to use the right type of lubricant for your specific model.

Lubrication is also important because it helps to reduce friction between moving parts. This allows the parts to work together more efficiently and prevents them from wearing down over time. Without proper lubrication, the parts can grind against each other, leading to increased wear and tear, as well as reduced performance.

Lubrication also helps to protect the parts from corrosion, which can lead to rust and other damage. If left unchecked, corrosion can cause the parts to become stuck or even break apart. By keeping the parts properly lubricated, you can help to extend their lifespan and keep them working at their best

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Finally, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Make sure to read and understand the instructions before operating the skid steer or any of its attachments. This will help ensure that you’re using the skid steer and its attachments in an approved manner.

These are just a few of the most important maintenance tips for skid steer attachments. It’s important to follow these tips in order to keep your skid steer running smoothly and safely.

Skid Steer Attachments That Never Surrender

Spartan Equipment is proud to produce skid steer attachments such as buckets, pallet forks, angle brooms, snow blowers, and brush cutters that will Never Surrender. Made in America from American steel only, our attachments are the toughest in the industry and protected by generous warranties.

For more information, feel free to get in touch with us at 1-888-888-1085.