5 Attachment Maintenance Mistakes That Can Lead to Downtime

When you're putting an attachment to work, the last thing you want is for a small problem to turn into a machine sitting on the trailer.

Dirt, dust, rocks, debris and heavy use are hard on attachments. Some wear is unavoidable, but a lot of downtime starts with problems that could have been caught earlier.

Here are five common maintenance mistakes that can cost you time on the job, along with a few simple ways to avoid them. 

1. Skipping the Pre-Job Inspection

It's easy to hook up an attachment and get to work, especially when you're trying to get a job done. But taking a few minutes to look it over can help you catch a problem before it takes you off the job.

Before starting, walk around the attachment and check:

• Mounting points: Look for cracks, loose hardware or anything that doesn't look right.

• Wear components: Check blades, teeth, cutting edges, skid shoes, bushings and other parts that take the most abuse.

• Structural components: Look for bent, cracked or damaged areas.

• Pins and fasteners: Make sure they're properly installed and secure.

• Hydraulic components: Check hoses, fittings and connections for damage or leaks.

The inspection will look different depending on the attachment. On a brush cutter, pay close attention to the blades, blade carrier and mounting points. On a breaker, check the tool, bushings and retaining components. With a grapple or mulcher, inspect the tines, teeth, pins and other high-wear areas.

If you find damage, don't just assume it will make it through one more job. Address it before putting the attachment to work.

2. Ignoring Hydraulic Hoses and Connections

If you're running a hydraulic attachment, the hoses and connections deserve a look before you put it to work.

Run your hand over the inspection process, but never use your hands to check for a hydraulic leak while the system is pressurized. Visually inspect hoses and fittings for:

• Cuts or cracks

• Abrasion or worn spots

• Bulging

• Leaking fittings

• Loose connections

• Hoses rubbing against the attachment or machine

Also check that hoses are routed correctly and aren't getting pinched or pulled when you operate the attachment.

If you find a damaged hose or hydraulic leak, shut the attachment down and address the problem before continuing to work. A small hydraulic issue can quickly become a much bigger repair.

3. Running Worn Parts Too Long

Wear parts are going to wear out. That's what they're there for.

The problem is waiting until they're completely worn out before replacing them. Depending on the attachment, that could mean cutting edges, teeth, blades, bushings, skid shoes or other components.

Make wear-part inspection part of your regular routine. Look at the components that contact the material you're working in and compare their condition to how they normally look and perform.

Watch for:

• Excessive wear

• Cracks or chips

• Missing teeth or hardware

• Uneven wear

• Reduced cutting or digging performance

If a wear part is getting close to the end of its useful life, replace it before it starts affecting other components. Keeping a few common wear parts on hand can also help prevent a small repair from turning into a day waiting on parts.

4. Forgetting to Grease It

Greasing isn't the most exciting part of running equipment, but it's one of the easiest maintenance jobs to stay on top of.

Start by knowing where the grease points are on your attachment and how often they need to be serviced. Follow the manufacturer's recommended grease type and service intervals.

Before greasing:

1. Park the machine and attachment safely.

2. Clean dirt and debris away from the grease fittings.

3. Inspect the fittings for damage or blockage.

4. Apply grease until the component is properly lubricated according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

5. Wipe away excess grease so it doesn't collect dirt and debris.

Don't wait until a pin or bushing starts making noise to think about lubrication. Put greasing on your regular maintenance schedule and keep track of when it was last done.

5. Putting It Away Dirty or Damaged

The end of the job is a good time to give your attachment another look.

Before you put it away:

• Remove built-up dirt, mud and debris.

• Check for new damage from the job.

• Look over wear parts for excessive wear or damage.

• Check hydraulic hoses and connections.

• Make a note of anything that needs to be repaired or replaced.

• Grease the attachment if it is due for service.

If you're putting an attachment into storage for an extended period, follow the manufacturer's storage recommendations rather than simply parking it and walking away.

The goal is simple: don't leave the next operator a problem you already know about.

Finding damage at the end of today's job gives you time to fix it before tomorrow's job.

Keep Your Attachment Ready for the Next Job

You can't prevent every breakdown. Attachments take a beating, and parts will eventually wear out.

But a consistent maintenance routine can help you catch problems before they turn into downtime.

Inspect it before you work. Check your hydraulics. Watch your wear parts. Grease it on schedule. Take care of problems before you put your attachment away.

Those few minutes can save hours when you're trying to get a job done.

And if you do run into a problem with your Blue Diamond attachment, support is just a phone call away. Our team can help you find the right parts and get you pointed in the right direction.