Storing an Attachment Between Seasons - How to Avoid Wear and Rust

In short: An attachment that sits unused for several months wears differently than one in constant use - more from rust, dirt and neglected joints than from physical use. A few simple steps before storage keep the attachment ready to use by spring.

Cleaning before storage

Dirt, soil and material residue hold moisture on the bucket and mount, which speeds up rusting while it sits. Before leaving an attachment to sit for a longer period, it's worth cleaning it thoroughly, especially the mounting points, joints and any gaps where dirt can collect.

• Wash off soil and material residue: dried-on dirt holds moisture and promotes rust while sitting.
• Clean mounting points separately: the quick coupler and mount area need special attention, since that's where most of the moving parts are.

Checking for worn and damaged spots

The off-season is a good time to go over the attachment's condition before it sits for a long time. If a part is worn or cracked, it's better to repair it or order a spare part before the season starts, rather than discovering the problem on an urgent first workday of the season.

• Check teeth and cutting edges: replace worn parts before storage so the attachment is ready to work right away come spring.
• Check play in bushings and pins: wear that won't progress during storage is better fixed already in autumn.

Rust protection

• Grease moving parts: joints, pins and moving points on hydraulic rods need a layer of oil or grease to avoid corroding.
• Protect cutting edges and blades: coat with a thin layer of oil if needed, especially freshly sharpened or replaced cutting edges.
• Hydraulic systems: protect hoses and fittings on hydraulic attachments (for example tiltrotators) from moisture and UV exposure, if they can be covered separately.

Choosing a storage location

Sitting in a dry, covered space is always better than outdoors, especially in winter. If covered storage isn't available, it's worth at least raising the attachment off the ground, so the lower part doesn't sit continuously in puddles and snow.

Before putting it back into use

Before the first job of the season, check the attachment over once more - the lock's function, the condition of the teeth, and hydraulic connections, if any. That way you catch a problem before starting work, not in the middle of the first workday. See all our products on the all attachments page.

If you notice wear or damage on an attachment and aren't sure whether it's safe to keep using, write to us and we'll take a look together. Get in touch via our contact page.