How to Maintain Sweeper Attachments

by John Thomas
Created: October 18, 2012

Avoid headaches with daily inspections and maintenance of sweeper attachments

The optimum brush pattern adjustment for a sweeper attachment is a 2- to 4-inch contact pattern that allows the brush to pick up debris with a “flicking” motion.
The optimum brush pattern adjustment for a sweeper attachment is a 2- to 4-inch contact pattern that allows the brush to pick up debris with a “flicking” motion.
Make sure brush pressure is not too light or heavy.
Make sure brush pressure is not too light or heavy.
Check all fittings, hoeses, and hardware to make sure they are in good condition.
Check all fittings, hoeses, and hardware to make sure they are in good condition.
Perform daily inspections and maintenance to keep your sweeper attachment running smoothly.
Perform daily inspections and maintenance to keep your sweeper attachment running smoothly.

Attachments break, but taking the time to perform daily inspections and maintenance can prevent premature failure, saving you time and money in the long run. Proper storage can also help prolong the life of your sweeper attachment. These three in combination—inspection, maintenance and proper storage—are your best defense in the fight against failing attachments.

John Thomas is the vice president of marketing & business development for Paladin, which includes Sweepster Attachments, based in Dexter, MI. For more information about Sweepster Attachments visit www.paladinbrands.com.

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Store It Right To Avoid Next Year’s Plight

Daily inspections and maintenance are futile if you don’t properly store your sweeper attachment when it is not in use. When storing your sweeper attachment, place it on blocks or storage stands to avoid putting excess weight on the brush. This weight will deform bristles, greatly minimizing sweeping effectiveness. Also, do not store polypropylene brushes in direct sunlight because this can cause the material to deteriorate and crumble before the bristles are worn out. Take these additional precautions before placing your sweeper attachment in storage:

Clean the unit thoroughly, removing all mud, dirt and grease.
Inspect for visible signs of wear, breakage or damage. Order any parts required and make the necessary repairs before storing.
Tighten loose nuts, bolts and hydraulic connections.
Coat exposed portions of the cylinder rods with grease.
Lubricate grease fittings.
Seal hydraulic system from contaminants and secure all hydraulic hoses off the ground to help prevent damage.
Store unit in a dry and protected place.