2 minute read
Spring Vehicle and Snow Removal Equipment Tips
by Expert Contributor Lou Matteo, Owner of Edgemont Automotive
Spring has sprung, and it’s time to start getting out and about again! Thank goodness the pandemic restrictions are easing and the 25+ inches of snow have melted away. Having just gone through the worst winter in recent years and a significant reduction in typical amount of driving, it’s important to take several steps before using or storing the vehicles and equipment that make our lives easier.
If you own snow removal equipment such as snow blowers, plows and salt-spreading equipment, take some steps now to ensure reliable operation next season as well as a long-term return on your investment. Read and understand the storage instructions in the owner’s manual. If the manual is not available, these few simple steps may help:
1. Rinse off all equipment, especially anything that may have come in contact with salt. When rinsing, use only a garden hose, do not use a power washer, which can cause water to get into and damage vital equipment parts. Before storing this equipment, make sure it’s completely dry.
2. Drain the fuel tanks and run the engine until it stalls. Leaving fuel in tanks and carburetors even for one season can make starting difficult when the equipment is needed again. This step is important for all gas-powered equipment or toys.
3. Change the oil in engines, and lube parts that have service fittings. Some snow plow manufacturers advise changing hydraulic fluid every season. If possible, store snow plow pumps and exposed pistons where they won’t be affected by the weather.
Now is the perfect time for sprucing up your vehicles for the spring and summer driving season. Whether you’ve been driving your vehicles all winter or you’re dusting off your summer ride that’s been in storage, here are three tips that may be helpful for smooth driving and extended years of reliable use:
1. Have your vehicles detailed. Whether you clean them up yourself or have a professional do it, make sure all salt and brine residue get rinsed off the undercarriage.
2. Clean the interiors and replace cabin air filters. When a vehicle has been sitting unused for a while, the cabin air filter and heater ducts are common areas for rodents to enter and make their nests. Have a helper run through the operation of electrical components such as lights. Rodents love to nibble on vehicle wire harnesses.
3. As always, keep up with scheduled maintenance. Have the fluids checked and topped off, and set the tire pressure to specs on the door frame.
Consult your auto service professional if you have any questions or if you need help to maintain your equipment and vehicles.
Expert Contributor Lou Matteo, Owner of Edgemont Automotive
610-353-9868
www.EdgemontAutomotive.com
Complete Vehicle Repair: Imports • Domestic • Trailers
•PA Safety Inspection & Emission Testing •Tires •Engine Diagnostics •Heating & A/C •Suspension •Brakes •Scheduled Maintenance •Electrical systems •Body Control Systems
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5040 West Chester Pike, Edgemont (in the Camino Commons Shopping Center)
