Operating and Maintaining Your Spreader: Tips for Long-Term Performance

When winter hits hard, a reliable salt or sand spreader becomes one of the most valuable pieces of equipment in your fleet. Whether you're using a towed, mounted, mechanical, or hydraulic spreader, proper operation and regular maintenance are essential for ensuring long-term performance and preventing costly breakdowns.

In this guide, we’ll cover practical spreader maintenance tips, a spreader operation guide, and troubleshooting strategies to keep your winter equipment in top condition — season after season.

✅ 1. Spreader Operation Guide: Using It Right From Day One

Proper operation while maintaining your spreader is the first step toward long-lasting equipment. Here are the best practices:

🔸 Pre-Operation Checklist:

• Inspect the hopper for leftover material or debris.

• Check tire pressure if it’s a towed spreader.

• Ensure all hydraulic or mechanical linkages are connected and functional.

• Verify the power source (hydraulic, electric, or gas) is in working order.

🔸 During Operation:

• Adjust the spreading width and rate according to road type and material.

• Avoid overloading the hopper — this can damage internal mechanisms.

• Drive at consistent speeds to ensure even material distribution.

• Avoid abrupt stops to prevent clogging or mechanical stress.

🛠️ 2. Spreader Maintenance: Keep It Running Smoothly

Regular spreader maintenance helps extend lifespan, improve safety, and boost spreading performance.

🔸 Daily Maintenance (During the Season):

• Rinse off salt or sand after every use.

• Clean spinner discs and any exposed parts.

• Check for corrosion, especially on bolts, bearings, and wiring.

• Refill lubrication points (chains, bearings, shafts).

🔸 Weekly Maintenance:

• Inspect hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks or cracks.

• Tighten any loose bolts or fasteners.

• Check calibration settings and recalibrate if needed.

• Empty the hopper completely and inspect for buildup or wear.

🔸 Seasonal (Pre- and Post-Winter):

• Perform a full inspection of the spreader’s frame and moving parts.

• Apply anti-corrosion protection (like grease or anti-rust sprays).

• Replace worn parts such as blades, belts, or chains.

• Store in a dry, covered area — ideally indoors.

⚠️ 3. Maintaining Your Spreader: Common Spreader Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Even with the best care, problems can happen. Here are some frequent issues and how to solve them:

Issue	Cause	Fix
Material not spreading evenly	Clogged spinner, damp material	Clean spinner, use dry material
Spinner not rotating	Broken drive mechanism, power loss	Check wiring, replace damaged parts
Hydraulic system failure	Low fluid, leaks, faulty pump	Refill fluid, fix leaks, service pump
Chain drive jammed	Debris or ice buildup	Clear obstruction, lubricate chain
Corrosion on metal components	Salt exposure, poor cleaning	Clean thoroughly, apply anti-corrosion

🧊 4. Winter Equipment Care: Protect Your Investment

Harsh winter conditions can damage even the best machines. Protect your investment with these salt spreader tips:

• Use covers or hoppers with lids to prevent moisture ingress.

• Install LED work lights for safer operation in low-visibility conditions.

• Avoid long idle times with loaded material to reduce clumping.

• Educate your team with proper operation and safety training.

🔚 Conclusion: Long-Term Performance Starts With Daily Habits

Your spreader is a vital tool in your winter maintenance operations — and it’s only as reliable as the care it receives. From pre-use checks to deep seasonal servicing, following a structured spreader maintenance routine is the best way to extend its life and maximize performance.

Stay ahead of winter by investing in the health of your spreader. With proper operation, regular care, and anti-corrosion protection, your equipment will serve reliably for years to come — no matter how harsh the conditions.