Heavy snow and below-zero temperatures can put real stress on your snow and ice control equipment. When you need your plow and tailgate sanders to work, even a minor breakdown or performance issue can waste time, fuel, and profits. Regular equipment maintenance is one way to ensure that your tailgate sanders perform well for many winters.
Since 1995, Hiniker has been designing and manufacturing professional-grade snow and ice control equipment, from the Hiniker C-Plow to our Scoop Plow line. We take pride in helping operators work smarter and safer in winter weather, which is why our products are built for dependability and efficiency. That same focus is behind our line of tailgate sanders, engineered to work consistently when operators need them most.
Follow these maintenance and care tips to keep your tailgate sanders in top condition for years of trouble-free service.
Keep it Clean and Clear
Tailgate sanders have many moving parts. After each use, rinse the entire hopper with low-pressure water to remove moisture and any salt, sand, or abrasive materials inside. Salt, sand, and moisture can build up and create restricted movement, slow down or corrode metal components, and prevent the auger or spinner from rotating freely. Be sure to dry the entire unit before storage to prevent rust or corrosion.
Ice and snow can also prevent materials from flowing. During overnight freezes or in subzero temperatures, leftover material from your last load can freeze up or build up inside the hopper. Removing material after each job will keep clogs from happening and ensure that your spreader is ready to go at a moment’s notice for your next loadout.
Inspect Electrical Connections
Winter weather can be hard on electrical systems and components. Salt spray and cold can corrode electrical connectors, and repeated exposure can loosen wires and plugs. A corroded electrical connection may make the motor run slower or stop completely.
If the spinner or auger doesn’t move as quickly as expected, or you have problems with the spread pattern, the issue may be an electrical one. Check all wiring, connectors, and plugs for corrosion or loose connections.
Make sure all wires and cables are securely connected and stored away from moving parts or areas that may accumulate ice or snow. Keeping the electrical system in good working condition helps the receiver hitch spreader perform consistently and dependably all season long.
Check and Maintain the Motor
Consistent spreading of sand, salt, or abrasive materials is dependent on a strong, responsive motor. Motors can wear over time and more quickly with exposure to moisture and salt spray. If the motor sounds weak or is running slower than it should be, it may be overworked and wearing prematurely.
Cleaning and maintenance in early stages of motor wear and tear can save time and money later. Our receiver hitch spreader products feature easy access to important parts for quick and simple inspection of the motor before or after each use.
Choose the Right Material
Water, sand, salt, and abrasives have different material flow characteristics. Moisture, clumping, or other material issues can occur at any time with certain products or blends. High humidity can affect performance, so always use dry materials in the hopper when possible.
If using a sand spreader, the coarseness of the sand or grit mixture can also have an effect on flow rate and pattern. Fine-grit materials flow more easily than larger particles or damp aggregates, which may need more agitation or cleaning for even flow.
Adjust the Spread Pattern
Tailgate spreaders are precision equipment and even the smallest changes can alter how the spinner or auger works and material is distributed. Adjust the spinner speed and the flow gate setting to control how much material is dispensed with each pass and how far the auger flings that material.
Adjustments to the spinner speed and gate settings can also help you control material output in different situations, from roads and parking lots to loading docks or residential driveways. Consistent adjustments and calibration of your system ensure that you apply the right amount of material for the conditions.
Operator attention to the consistency of the spread pattern is also important. Uneven spreading of salt or abrasive materials may be a sign that the spinner angle or gate opening should be adjusted. Taking the time to fine-tune the salter system can help you save material and improve traction results.
Preventing Corrosion and Rust
Salt is hard on all equipment, even stainless steel. Rinse the entire spreader, including the underside, after every use to remove any salt residue or moisture. Allow to dry completely before parking or storing the unit in a garage or outdoor area.
Spray a corrosion inhibitor over exposed metal surfaces to further prevent rust. Store salt spreaders in a dry area, out of the elements, and under a cover when not in use to prevent unsightly rust buildup and preserve both the appearance and function of your equipment.
Store Your Equipment Correctly
The end of the season is as good a time as any to inspect and perform any needed maintenance or repairs. Rinse out all leftover material and wash the entire spreader with water after every season or storage period. Allow to dry thoroughly and disconnect all power cables, storing them in a clean and dry place.
Cover the spreader when not in use to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating. We recommend that operators give their tailgate sanders a full inspection before the first snowfall each season. Replace any worn parts, reapply grease, and test electrical connections to make sure everything is in good working order.
Hiniker has been a proud Minnesota-based manufacturer since 1995. We offer the highest quality salt & sand spreaders, snow plows, skid steers, truck plows, accessories, and more! Our equipment at Hiniker is built to enable the operator to work as efficiently as possible.
Contact us today by calling (800) 433-5620 to find out more about the premium snow removal products we offer. You can also follow us on Facebook for the latest news regarding Hiniker’s premium equipment and accessories.
