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Landscape and Turf Maintenance By Bruce Carmichael First Things First Preseason spreader maintenance promotes longevity, efficiency Adjustable spinner fins can correct lopsided spread patterns. A t the beginning of the season, there’s always a lot to think about — and preseason spreader maintenance probably isn’t at the top of your list. However, it’s becoming an increasingly important agenda item, as tighter budgets postpone new equipment purchases, and existing equipment is needed to last longer than before. With heightened environmental initiatives, it’s also important to ensure the spreader is tuned up and running effi- ciently. Considering all of these growing concerns, it’s time to put first things first and kick your preseason maintenance pro- gram into gear. The basics Of course, one of the first steps of pre- season spreader maintenance is also the most basic. Start by washing the unit — even if it was cleaned before going into storage. It’s a good idea to remove any new deposits, as well as anything that was missed previously. Although some like to use chemicals, only water is necessary to give the spreader a good cleaning. Plus, bear in mind that 16 Landscape and Irrigation April 2011 www.landscapeirrigation.com alkaline-based cleaners containing acetone, benzene, leaded gasoline or brake cleaner can actually cause damage to polyethylene components. Additionally, proceed with caution if using a pressure washer on electric-powered spreaders. A good rule of thumb is to keep the end of the spray wand at least 36 inches away from all elec- trical items. If the wand gets too close, the high-pressure water could penetrate seals and lead to a short in the motor. To help prevent corrosion on the spreader, touch up any bare metal spots with a coat of paint. This applies to both the hopper and the frame unless, of course, the hopper is constructed of polyethylene. If this is the case, only the steel frame needs to be checked. Again, this step should have been completed at the end of the previous season, but it’s always good to double check. Otherwise, once the spreader is subjected to the elements, un- coated metal is prone to rust. Next, for spreaders with electrical com- ponents, one should apply a generous coat of dielectric grease to all terminals. This promotes easy reconnection of harnesses, and ensures good electrical connections. Additionally, dielectric grease helps prevent corrosion of the terminals. Then it’s time to lubricate all bearings, chains, conveyors, rollers, augers and any- thing else with a grease fitting. How much time, effort and grease are needed will differ depending on the number of moving parts in the spreader. Since components vary so widely, it’s important to check the owner’s manual for a full maintenance checklist and Calibration keys help adjust the gate to the appropriate height.