Common Mistakes When Storing Heavy Duty Construction Vehicles 

By Media Manager

For owners of heavy-duty construction vehicles, proper storage and maintenance of equipment play a pivotal role in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of them. Here at KeepSafe of California, we specialize in affordable heavy duty construction storage. As we wrote about previously, it is crucial for owners of heavy-duty construction vehicles to store them properly. Construction vehicles are significant investments for construction companies, making it crucial to store them correctly when not in use. Unfortunately, several common mistakes can lead to severe damages, reduced equipment lifespan, and increased operating costs. 

In this, we will discuss the most prevalent mistakes people make when storing heavy-duty construction vehicles and offer a few practical solutions to avoid them.

1.  Lack of Proper Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the most critical mistakes made when storing heavy-duty construction vehicles is neglecting proper cleaning and maintenance before storage. Construction equipment is often exposed to harsh working conditions and accumulates dirt, debris, and even corrosive materials. If these contaminants are not adequately removed, they can lead to accelerated wear and tear, rusting, and damage to sensitive components.

Solution: Develop a routine maintenance schedule that includes thorough cleaning, lubrication, and inspection before storing the vehicles. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening during storage.

2.  Improper Parking Techniques

Improper parking can strain various components of construction vehicles, especially those with extensive hydraulic systems. Leaving equipment parked on uneven surfaces or failing to secure them properly can lead to uneven tire wear, hydraulic leaks, and reduced performance.

Solution: Always park the vehicles on level ground and utilize support devices like chocks and blocks to prevent unnecessary stress on the hydraulic systems. Use parking brakes when appropriate and implement wheel chocks as an extra safety precaution.

3.  Ignoring Battery Maintenance

Construction vehicles are often equipped with large batteries to power their robust engines and auxiliary systems. Neglecting battery maintenance during storage can lead to a depleted or damaged battery, hindering the vehicle's ability to start when needed.

Solution: Before storing the vehicles for an extended period, disconnect the batteries and store them separately in a cool, dry location. Alternatively, use a battery maintainer or tender to keep the battery charged during storage. Here at KeepSafe StorAll, we offer trickle charges for our customers as part of their monthly agreement, customers can also choose to opt out of this for a lesser price. Reach out to us to inquire about our availability with this. 

5. Forgetting Regular Start-up and Exercise

Letting construction vehicles sit idle for extended periods without starting or exercising them can lead to mechanical issues and deterioration. Components that are meant to move might become stiff or seize, causing difficulties when attempting to start the vehicle.

Solution: Start and run the engines of the stored vehicles at regular intervals, even if they won't be in active use. This practice helps to lubricate moving parts and maintain the vehicle's overall functionality. When storing with us at KeepSafe StorAll, you will have access to your vehicle whenever you wish to see or use it. We have keycard access for our customers to ensure you can access your vehicle and that it stays safe with us. Read more about our security measures here. 

If you are looking for an affordable space to store your heavy duty construction vehicle, consider storing with us at KeepSafe StorAll. We are located in Antioch, near Concord, Brentwood, and Oakley, conveniently near the 4 and 160 highways. We specialize in storing heavy duty construction vehicles such as dump haulers, backhoes, skid steers, and much more. We have ample outdoor storage; both covered and uncovered, for you to store your construction vehicles. 

Proper storage and maintenance are vital aspects of owning heavy-duty construction vehicles. By avoiding the common mistakes discussed in this blog post and implementing the suggested solutions, construction companies can extend the lifespan of their equipment, reduce downtime, and save significant costs in the long run. Remember, a little effort and attention to detail during storage can go a long way in ensuring the continued performance and efficiency of these essential machines.