Gear Up for Spring Work

I know the feeling, spring rolls around, and suddenly, everything needs to be up and running yesterday.

After months of sitting in storage (or pushing through winter jobs in rough conditions), your heavy equipment needs some serious attention before it’s ready to handle the demands of a busy construction season. I’ve been through enough spring maintenance cycles to know that skipping these steps leads to expensive breakdowns, unexpected downtime and frustrated crews.

If you manage a fleet, you already know that preventative maintenance beats emergency repairs every time. Getting ahead of potential problems now will save time and money when the season is in full swing.

The best place to start?
A deep cleaning and full inspection.

Full Scrub Down and Fluid Checks First

Even if your equipment was cleaned before winter storage, dirt and debris have a way of settling in over time. Power washing the exterior, especially the undercarriage, will help prevent rust and corrosion.

The cab needs attention too — washing off dust and grime makes for a better operator experience and ensures all controls and visibility are at their best. While cleaning, it’s easier to spot loose bolts, rust, worn hoses or leaks that could turn into costly failures later.

Once the machines are washed, the next step is checking fluid levels.

Engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant and fuel quality should all be evaluated before putting equipment back into service. Fluids degrade over time, especially if the equipment has been sitting idle, and contaminated fluids can cause serious damage. Engine oil that appears milky could indicate water intrusion, while thick or sludgy hydraulic fluid can affect machine performance. Fuel systems should be checked for water contamination and sediment buildup, especially in diesel engines. If anything looks off, changing it now can prevent unexpected downtime later.

Filters, Fluids and Batteries Matter

Filters play a huge role in keeping equipment running efficiently, and spring is the perfect time to replace them. Air filters that are clogged with dust reduce engine performance, while dirty oil and fuel filters can accelerate wear and tear. These small components might not seem urgent, but ignoring them can lead to bigger issues, like reduced fuel efficiency and increased engine strain. Changing them regularly is a simple way to extend the life of your equipment.

Batteries take a hit over the winter, whether from cold temperatures or sitting unused for long periods. Corrosion on terminals can lead to unreliable starts, and weak batteries are a major source of unexpected downtime. Checking the charge and wiping off any buildup now will prevent those frustrating no-start situations when you need the machines ready to go. For lead-acid batteries, electrolyte levels should be checked to ensure the plates are properly covered.

A well-maintained battery means fewer headaches once the season is in full swing.

Hydraulic Systems and Lubrication Go Hand in Hand

The hydraulic system is another critical area that needs attention. Every spring, hydraulic hoses should be inspected for cracks, leaks and wear. Even a small leak can cause serious pressure loss, affecting performance and potentially leading to a catastrophic failure. Connections should be tight, and cylinders should be tested for smooth operation. If hydraulic levels are low, topping them off with the correct grade of fluid is essential to keep things running efficiently.

One thing people sometimes overlook is the importance of proper lubrication. For this, you need to remember the physics of heavy machinery.

Lubricants provide the parts with a protective barrier to ease friction and wear. Every moving component generates friction, and over time, that friction wears down parts, eventually leading to repairs. Pivot points, joints and bearings all need quality grease to prevent metal-on-metal contact. Using the right lubricants, such as Molybdenum disulfide grease as recommended by the manufacturer, will help prevent excessive heat buildup and keep components running smoothly. Skipping this step might not cause an immediate failure, but it accelerates wear and shortens the lifespan of critical parts.

Tires, Undercarriages and Brakes, Oh My!

Tires and undercarriages are another area that need a close look. For wheeled equipment, tire pressure should be checked to ensure proper inflation. Underinflated tires wear unevenly and reduce fuel efficiency, while overinflated ones are prone to blowouts. Sidewall cracks, bald spots or any visible damage mean it’s time for a replacement. Tracked machines require a different kind of attention – track tension should be checked, and excessive wear on rollers and sprockets should be addressed before it becomes a bigger issue.

Brakes are a critical safety component, and after months of sitting, they should be thoroughly inspected. Brake pads and rotors wear down over time, and any signs of thinning, cracking or warping should be addressed immediately. Electronic components, such as anti-lock brake systems, need to be tested to ensure they’re functioning correctly. If brake fluid levels are low, that could indicate a leak that needs attention before putting the equipment back into use.

Electrical Systems and Preventative Maintenance

Electrical systems are easy to overlook but can cause big problems if they’re not working properly. Lights and signals should be checked to ensure full visibility on jobsites. Wiring can sometimes be damaged over the winter — rodents, in particular, love to chew through insulation. Any exposed or frayed wires should be repaired before they cause shorts or system failures. Sensors and alarms should be tested to confirm they’re functioning as intended. Electrical issues are often small at first but can quickly escalate into expensive repairs if left unchecked.

One of the most important things to establish in the spring is a preventative maintenance schedule.

It’s easy to push maintenance aside once the season gets busy, but reactive repairs cost a lot more than planned upkeep. Using fleet management software can help track service intervals, monitor equipment usage and send reminders when maintenance is due. Operators should also be given checklists to complete before and after each shift to catch early warning signs of potential issues. Keeping detailed maintenance records helps identify recurring problems before they turn into expensive breakdowns.

Operator Training and Small Fixes Prevent Downtime

None of this matters, though, if the people operating the equipment aren’t on board with proper care. Operator training and communication are just as important as the maintenance itself.

Operators should know the warning signs of mechanical issues and be encouraged to report any concerns as soon as they arise.

Small problems, like a slight delay in hydraulic response or a strange noise coming from the undercarriage, can be early indicators of larger issues. Clear communication between operators and maintenance personnel helps ensure that these minor problems get addressed before they become major failures.

Taking a little extra time now to inspect, clean and replace worn-out parts can mean the difference between a smooth, profitable season and one filled with breakdowns and unexpected downtime.

When equipment is properly maintained, it runs more efficiently, lasts longer and is less likely to cause disruptions. If you stay ahead of these maintenance steps, your fleet will be ready to hit the ground running when the work starts rolling in.