Technical Knowledge
The correct way to store power trowels for a long time
The long-term storage of the power trowel machine during the off-season of construction or during project intervals (usually referring to more than one month) is of vital importance. Proper storage and maintenance can greatly prevent equipment from rusting, aging and being damaged, ensuring that its performance remains as good as new when it is used again and extending its service life.
The following is the standard "seven-step method" for the long-term storage of a power trowel. Please be sure to follow the sequence.
Standard operating procedures for long-term storage of power trowels
Step 1: Thorough cleaning and inspection (immediately after construction)
This is the foundation of all steps and must never be stored with cement slurry on the machine.
High-pressure flushing: Use a high-pressure water gun or a large amount of clean water to thoroughly rinse all parts of the machine body, blades, chassis, walking wheels, etc., and remove all cement, mortar, and mud lumps. Pay special attention to cleaning the connection area of the blade, the lifting screw and the area around the bearing sealing ring.
Detail cleaning: Use tools such as scrapers and wire brushes to remove stubborn lumps.
Comprehensive inspection: During the cleaning process, check whether the blades are worn or deformed, whether the screws and nuts are loose, whether the machine body is cracked, and whether the cables/oil pipes are damaged. Record the problems to facilitate subsequent maintenance.
Step 2: Completely dry (the core to prevent rusting)
Move the machine to a well-ventilated, dry and rain-free indoor storage point.
Dry/blow dry all surface moisture with a dry cloth or compressed air, especially:
Exposed metal parts (lifting screw, adjusting rod).
Blade.
Engine surface.
All oil injectors and gaps.
Make sure that the inside and outside of the machine are completely dry, with no signs of dampness at all.
Step 3: Deep lubrication and rust prevention treatment (providing protection during the static period)
Drain the old grease and add new grease: Use a grease gun to inject an adequate amount of new grease into all grease nozzles (spindle of the cutter head, bearings of the traveling wheels, steering mechanism, etc.) until all the old grease that may contain water is completely squeezed out. This can expel moisture and form a protective film inside.
Apply anti-rust oil to key areas: Apply a layer of anti-rust oil or grease to all exposed metal surfaces prone to rust (non-friction contact surfaces). Key points include:
Lifting screw and thread: Thickly coated with grease.
Blade: Apply a thin layer of anti-rust oil to both sides (wipe it off before reuse).
Chassis metal frame.
Exposed bolts and nuts.
Engine maintenance (for gasoline/diesel engines) :
Change the engine oil: Drain the old oil when the engine is hot and add new oil to the specified mark.
Fuel system treatment (crucial!)" :
Option A (Recommended) : Completely drain the fuel from the fuel tank. Then start the engine and let it shut down naturally to deplete the residual fuel in the carburetor or fuel lines.
Option B: If it is impossible to empty the fuel tank, fill it up with fuel and add fuel stabilizer. Then run the engine for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the stabilizer to circulate throughout the fuel line. This can prevent the fuel from gelatinizing and clogging the carburetor and fuel injector.
Spark plug/fuel injector: Remove the spark plug, inject a small amount (about 10-15ml) of engine oil into the cylinder, manually and slowly pull the start rope several times to coat the cylinder wall with the engine oil, and then reinstall the spark plug (without connecting the high-voltage wire).
Step 4: Special treatment of the engine and electrical system
Disconnect the battery: If the machine has power to start the battery, the negative cable should be disconnected. Remove the battery, store it in a cool and dry place, and perform a charge maintenance every 1 to 2 months.
Protect the circuit: Wrap the exposed circuit joints with waterproof tape.
Air filter: Remove the air filter, clean or replace it. Stuff a clean cloth into the air intake to prevent dust from entering.
Step 5: Tire and blade processing
Tire: Lift the machine up to lift the tire off the ground to prevent the tread from being deformed and aged due to long-term single-point pressure. If it cannot be lifted, make sure the tire pressure is sufficient and move the position regularly.
Blade: The blade can be removed. After cleaning, apply anti-rust oil separately and store it. Or at least ensure that rust prevention measures have been taken on the machine.
Step 6: Select and prepare the storage environment
Ideal environment: In a dry, cool and well-ventilated warehouse or shed. Avoid outdoor storage.
Stay away from corrosion: Keep away from fertilizers, chemicals and damp ground.
Stable placement: Place the machine on a flat ground and level it with wooden blocks if necessary.
Step 7: Covering and Marking
Cover: Use a breathable dust cover (such as a canvas cover) to cover the entire machine. It is strictly prohibited to directly wrap with completely impermeable plastic sheeting, otherwise water vapor will condense inside, causing severe rust.
Marking: Hang a label that reads "Maintained and ready for storage" in a prominent position, and indicate the storage date and the date when the next inspection is required.
Inspection during storage and before activation
Storage period: Every 1-2 months, check the machine for any abnormalities (such as tire pressure, the integrity of the covering, and whether there is any rat damage or wire biting), and recharge the battery.
Before reactivation (very important!)" :
Remove the coverings and check the overall condition.
Check whether the grease in all parts has hardened and replenish or replace it if necessary.
Reinstall the battery (if it has been removed) and connect it firmly.
Remove the blockage at the air intake and reinstall the air filter.
Wipe off the excess anti-rust oil from the key friction areas (such as the contact surface between the blade and the ground).
Check the fuel and engine oil according to the normal start-up procedure, and then start the machine. First, run it at low speed without load for a few minutes to allow all components to lubricate and circulate. Only after there are no abnormal sounds can it be put into construction.
Summary: The core points for long-term storage
Cleanliness is the prerequisite: no cement residue.
Drying is fundamental: eliminate moisture.
Lubrication and rust prevention are key: putting on a "protective suit" for metals.
The fuel system needs to be properly handled: to prevent clogging.
It's better to store off the ground: protect the tires.
Regular inspections are indispensable: dynamic management.
By following the above methods, your power trowel machine can quickly regain its "combat effectiveness" even after being idle for several months, effectively avoiding problems such as difficult startup, component jamming, and rust damage, truly achieving "always on standby, reliable and durable".
Note: The parameters provided in this document are for reference only and are not mandatory. Due to differences in technical characteristics between different brands and models of laser levelers, please consult the manufacturer for a suitable solution before actual operation. This reference document assumes no responsibility for any issues arising from failure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Thanks to All the Friends Who Support and Trust Shandong Vanse Machinery Technology Co., Ltd.
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About the Author: Shandong Vanse Machinery Technology Co., Ltd.
Shandong Vanse Machinery Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech manufacturer specializing in concrete construction machinery, including laser screeds and related equipment. The company integrates R&D, production, and global sales, with products exported to over 60 countries and widely used in infrastructure projects worldwide.
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