Preparing your Digger Derrick for Storage

How much time is considered ‘storage time’?

The answer: it depends. If the climate is temperate and dry – it may be 4 months. If it is humid or next to the ocean with the salt air, it may only be 2 weeks. Either way, crews should follow the vehicle manufacturers recommendations for servicing and storing the digger derrick – and keep the following in mind. 

CLEAN 

• Wash and clean the digger derrick to remove accumulated road grime. It can discolor the paint if left on for long periods of time. 

• Clean and wax the fiberglass components. 

COVER 

• If stored in the sun; cover any exposed hoses to prevent deterioration. 

• Cover the platform, if equipped, to prevent water from accumulating. A platform full of water can weigh over 900 lbs. (408 kg) and exceed the capacity of the platform. 

• Touch up any bare metal and where the paint is chipped or cracked. 

CHECK 

• Check the oil for pH level and water content. Acidic oil or water in the oil may settle out during storage and can rust the interior of the hydraulic system. 

• Ensure the hydraulic tank filler-breather filter is intact to prevent dirt entering the tank when the temperature changes. 

• Alternatively cycle the cylinder through a full stroke weekly to maintain an oil film on the exposed rod surface. 

• Inspect and operate the unit before send for storage. Test all functions when it returned to service. 

GREASE 

• Clean and coat the exposed cylinder rods with grease, preservative spray, or heavy preservative oil. 

• Clean and grease the exposed valve spools and linkage. 

• Lubricate the entire Digger Derrick following the lube chart. 

• Grease all sliding surfaces where there is metal contact to prevent rust.