Be Prepared Before the First Snowfall
Winter can be unpredictable…our experts at Hiniker know this more than just about anyone on the planet. Having well-maintained tailgate spreaders is crucial for keeping roads, driveways, and parking lots safe.
If you rely on your spreader to distribute salt or sand, a little preparation now can save you a lot of trouble later. Taking the time to inspect, clean, and test your equipment before winter sets in will help ensure smooth operation when you need it most.
Check Your Tailgate Spreader for Wear and Tear
Our team wants you to be ready for winter — and after months of inactivity — your tailgate spreaders might need some TLC before it’s ready to go. At Hiniker, we strongly suggest doing a quick inspection to spot potential spreader issues before they become serious problems.
- Look for rust and corrosion – Salt and moisture can take a toll on metal parts. If you see rust, clean it off and apply a protective coating.
- Inspect the hopper and chute – Cracks or blockages can cause uneven spreading or prevent material from flowing properly.
- Test the spinner and auger – Make sure they spin freely and are in good condition. A damaged auger can lead to inefficient spreading.
- Check the wiring and motor – Corroded connections or loose wires can cause operational issues. Give everything a once-over to ensure it’s in working order.
Catching small problems early can help prevent breakdowns when you need your spreader the most.
Clean and Lubricate Moving Parts
At Hiniker, our maintenance gurus know that a little early prep can go a long way. This is especially true when extending the life of your tailgate spreaders. Before the season starts, take time to clean and lubricate all moving parts.
- Empty out any leftover material – Old salt or sand left in the hopper can clump and cause blockages.
- Grease bearings and chains – Lubrication keeps everything running smoothly and helps prevent freezing.
- Check for debris in the motor housing – Dirt and salt buildup can strain the motor — leading to premature failure.
Regular maintenance helps keep your spreader in peak condition and ensures reliable performance when winter arrives.
Test Your Spreader Before the First Storm
The worst time to find out your spreader isn’t working is during a snowstorm. Run a quick test before you actually need it.
- Load a small amount of sand or salt and check how it flows through the system.
- Adjust the spread pattern and rate to ensure even distribution.
- Verify that all controls respond properly and there are no delays or electrical issues.
If something isn’t working right, now is the time to address it—before you’re dealing with ice-covered roads.
Use the Right Spreading Material
Not all de-icing materials work the same. Using the wrong type can lead to clogs or spreader damage.
- Salt – Ideal for melting ice but can cause corrosion over time.
- Sand – Provides traction but doesn’t melt ice. Works well in extremely cold temperatures where salt is less effective.
- Pre-treated salt – A good option for spreading at lower temperatures while reducing material waste.
Still unsure which material works best for your equipment? Check with reputable tailgate spreader dealers like Hiniker. Our experts will provide thoughtful recommendations for your specific needs.
Store Your Spreader Properly After the Season
When winter is over, don’t just park your spreader and forget about it. Successful storage tactics can save you from headaches next season.
- Clean out all remaining salt or sand to prevent buildup.
- Inspect for any damage and replace worn-out parts before storing.
- Store in a dry, covered area to protect against rust and corrosion.
Proper storage keeps your spreader in good condition and ready for the next winter.
Choosing the Right Tailgate Spreader for Your Needs
Your spreader might be outdated or not performing well. If so, it might be time for an upgrade. Different types of spreaders are available depending on your needs.
- Receiver hitch spreader – Great for light-duty use on smaller trucks.
- Tailgate sanders – Designed to spread sand effectively, ideal for icy conditions.
- High-capacity spreaders – Best for commercial applications where efficiency is key.
Working with a trusted tailgate spreader dealer can help you find the right equipment for your specific snow and ice management needs.
Get Winter-Ready with Hiniker
Taking care of your tailgate spreaders before winter ensures safe and efficient snow removal when you need it. By inspecting, cleaning, and testing your spreader now, you’ll be prepared for whatever winter throws your way.
If you’re looking for reliable equipment, replacement parts, or expert advice, find a Hiniker dealer today. Get ahead of the winter rush and make sure your spreader is ready to go when the snow starts falling.
Hiniker has been a proud Minnesota based manufacturer since 1995. We are proud to offer the highest quality salt spreaders, 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.
At Hiniker, we take great pride in providing equipment that is straightforward and reliable. We can help you with anything from a blaze bar light to a receiver hitch spreader. Our team wants you to avoid as much downtime as possible so you can clear all the snow and ice that stands in your way!
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.
