To get your Western Striker salt spreader ready for the off-season, start by thoroughly cleaning out salt and debris, making certain to pressure wash the hopper and dry everything completely. Inspect all moving parts, bearings, and electrical components for wear or damage, and lubricate as recommended. Check fluid levels, secure all connections, and address any leaks or corrosion. Store your spreader off the ground, covered, and sheltered from weather. There’s more you can do to guarantee top performance next winter.
Key Takeaways
- Thoroughly clean the hopper and all components to remove residual salt and prevent corrosion.
- Inspect belts, chains, bearings, and moving parts for wear or damage, and repair as needed.
- Lubricate all bearings, pivot points, and critical moving parts according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Check and maintain fluid levels, addressing any leaks and using only recommended fluids.
- Store the spreader in a dry, sheltered location, elevated and covered to prevent rust and weather damage.
Thorough Cleaning and Salt Removal
Before you store your salt spreader for the off-season, it’s important to focus on thorough cleaning and salt removal. Start by pressure washing the inside of the hopper to get rid of any residual salt, which helps prevent corrosion. Rinse all external surfaces, making certain you eliminate debris that could trigger rust or damage. Pay special attention to moving parts like the pulley setup for the spinner motor, removing any stuck material. Don’t overlook electrical connections—hidden salt can cause long-term issues. Once you’ve finished, leave your spreader in a dry area to guarantee every component dries out completely.
Inspecting for Wear and Damage
Now that your spreader is clean, start your inspection by checking the condition of chains and belts, making sure they’re free of excessive wear and properly adjusted. Next, look over the spreader’s frame and body for any cracks, rust, or signs of structural weakness that could cause trouble later. Taking care of these issues now helps prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need your equipment most.
Assess Chains and Belts
Regularly checking the chains and belts on your salt spreader is essential to prevent unexpected breakdowns during operation. Make sure you inspect every conveyor chain and belt for fraying, cracking, or stretching—any of these can lead to failure. See the owner’s manual for specifications, but chains should have about 1 to 3 inches of deflection. Adjust the drive motor chain by loosening the motor bolts and sliding the motor as needed. Replace worn parts immediately and keep spares handy. Weigh the reliability of OEM versus will-fit options, focusing on cost-effectiveness and consistent performance for the next season.
Examine Structural Integrity
If you want your salt spreader to perform reliably next season, it’s important to closely examine its structural integrity during the off-season. Look for cracks or corrosion on the frame and mounting brackets, as even minor damage can hinder your ability to fight snow and ice when the first storm hits. Check that all belts, chains, and bolts are secure and show no excessive wear. Don’t forget hydraulic and electrical systems—inspect for leaks, damaged hoses, or corroded wires. Addressing these areas now helps you avoid costly breakdowns and guarantees your spreader is ready when reliability matters most.
- Inspect frame and brackets for cracks or rust
- Check hydraulic hoses for leaks or damage
- Confirm all bolts and fasteners are tight
Lubricating Moving Parts and Bearings
One key step in off-season maintenance is lubricating all moving parts and bearings on your salt spreader. Start by applying EXTREME DEFENSE™ Grease to every bearing on the spreader and shoe—this guarantees smooth movement and prevents wear over months of inactivity. Maintain about a quarter inch of deflection in your drive motor chain, lubricating it regularly for peak power transfer. Don’t overlook every pivot point, since proper greasing reduces friction and extends component life. For those hard-to-reach areas, use a Central Point Grease Kit, making certain every part receives attention. Complete lubrication now means fewer issues next winter.
Checking and Maintaining Fluids
You’ll want to monitor all fluid levels in your salt spreader regularly, checking for any signs of leaks or low levels. If you notice a leak, address it right away to prevent bigger problems down the line. Always use the fluids recommended by the manufacturer to keep your equipment running smoothly and efficiently.
Monitor Fluid Levels Regularly
Keeping an eye on fluid levels is a key part of off-season maintenance for your Western Striker Salt Spreader. You’ll want to check oil, coolant, and fuel regularly, following your Owner’s Manual to verify each step is correct. Consistent monitoring sets the stage for reliable performance and extends the life of your spreader. Don’t underestimate the impact of maintaining proper fluid levels—it reduces wear and keeps your equipment ready when winter returns.
- Inspect oil and coolant gauges for accurate readings and residue buildup.
- Examine fuel quality and tank cleanliness before storage.
- Reference manufacturer’s instructions for precise fluid level benchmarks.
Address Leaks Promptly
Act quickly when you spot any leaks in your Western Striker Salt Spreader, as even minor fluid loss can lead to bigger problems down the road. Inspect the hydraulic system for cracks, leaks, or damaged hoses—addressing these issues swiftly helps prevent operational failures and extends your equipment’s life. Check battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections; clean and apply dielectric grease to guard against dampness. Change the gearbox oil annually to avoid moisture buildup that causes leaks and reduces performance. Always follow the Owner’s Manual for leak checks, ensuring all systems are secure and reliable before the season starts.
Use Recommended Fluids
Even during the off-season, it’s important to check and maintain all fluid levels in your Western Striker Salt Spreader. Use only the recommended gear oil—either Mobile SHC 632 or Exxon SHP 320—for your gearbox, and change it annually to prevent efficiency loss and dampness buildup. Don’t overlook hydraulic fluid; monitor its level and inspect hoses for leaks or cracks. Always follow the Owner’s Manual for gas engine fluid checks. Address any fluid issues immediately to prevent bigger problems later. For best results, picture these tasks:
- Topping off clean, golden gear oil
- Inspecting hydraulic lines for leaks
- Consulting your manual for fluid specs
Electrical System Care and Protection
When preparing your salt spreader for the off-season, paying close attention to the electrical system is crucial for reliable performance next winter. Inspect power cables to make sure they’re securely connected directly to the battery, preventing power loss or electrical failures. Examine battery terminals for corrosion or looseness, cleaning them and applying dielectric grease. Check wiring harnesses for wear or damage, and keep them routed away from hot or moving parts. Verify the 100 amp fuse works properly, replacing it and greasing terminals if needed. Finally, perform a thorough system test, confirming every connection and component operates as intended.
Securing and Storing Your Spreader
After making sure the electrical system is in good shape, it’s time to focus on physically securing and storing your salt spreader for the off-season. Use strong ratchet straps to fasten the Western Striker Salt Spreader securely to your vehicle or storage area, and verify your mounting system supports the unit’s weight. Thoroughly clean the hopper and all external surfaces to remove residual salt and prevent corrosion. Always store the spreader in a dry, sheltered environment to guard against rust and weather damage. For best results, consult your owner’s manual for detailed storage recommendations and ongoing maintenance guidelines.
- Ratchet straps tightly securing the spreader
- Freshly washed hopper gleaming in sunlight
- Spreader tucked safely under a protective shelter
Replacing and Repairing Critical Components
To keep your salt spreader working smoothly season after season, it is vital to regularly replace and repair its critical components. Inspect chains, belts, and hoses for wear or damage, replacing them as needed to maintain efficiency and reliability. Keep spare parts on hand, especially for the drive motor chain and gear oil, so you can address issues quickly and minimize downtime. Repaint any exposed metal to prevent rust and corrosion, which can compromise key parts. Periodically check electrical connectors and components, replacing any that show corrosion. Always use WESTERN Genuine Service Parts to guarantee the best compatibility and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Keep a Salt Spreader From Rusting?
To keep your salt spreader from rusting, you’ll clean it thoroughly after use, inspect and repaint exposed metal, lubricate moving parts, quickly replace worn components, and always store it in a dry, sheltered area to minimize corrosion.
Can You Leave Salt in a Salt Spreader?
You shouldn’t leave salt in your spreader. Salt’s highly corrosive and will damage internal components, cause clogs, and decrease lifespan. Always empty and clean your spreader after use if you want peak performance and long-term reliability.
Will a Salt Spreader Spread Fertilizer?
You can use a salt spreader to spread fertilizer, but you’ll need to recalibrate the settings for proper flow and coverage. Always check your manual, since improper adjustment can cause uneven distribution or equipment damage.
How Do You Store Salt Spreaders?
You store salt spreaders by emptying the hopper, washing away all residue, and drying thoroughly. Lubricate moving parts, protect electrical connections, and cover the unit. Always choose a clean, dry spot to prevent corrosion and guarantee peak performance.