How to Store a Mobile Crane Properly: A Complete Guide for Safety and Longevity

Mobile cranes are powerful machines that play an essential role in construction, industrial projects, and numerous heavy lifting tasks. Whether you own a mobile crane or operate one regularly, knowing how to store it properly is critical to its durability, safety, and performance. Neglecting proper storage can lead to rusting, mechanical failures, and costly repairs, ultimately shortening the crane’s life and risking operator safety. This article will guide you step-by-step on how to store a mobile crane properly, covering everything from preparation to the ideal environmental conditions and regular maintenance during storage.

Why Proper Storage of Mobile Cranes Is Crucial

Before diving into the specifics of how to store a mobile crane properly, it’s important to understand why this practice matters in the first place. Mobile cranes, by their nature, are exposed to wear and tear not only during operation but also when left unused. Different parts of the crane, such as hydraulic systems, cables, tires, and structural components, require specific care to avoid deterioration.

Improper storage can cause moisture to build up, leading to corrosion or rust, which can seriously damage the crane’s integrity. Additionally, exposure to extreme weather conditions without adequate protection can degrade seals, electrical components, and paint. Inadequate storage can also lead to safety hazards, affecting the machine’s reliability when it is put back to work. Therefore, learning how to store a mobile crane properly ensures your investment remains in top condition, ready for efficient service when needed.

Initial Preparations Before Storing a Mobile Crane

Knowing how to store a mobile crane properly begins with thorough cleaning and pre-storage checks. A clean machine is less prone to rust and corrosion, so it’s essential to remove dirt, grease, and debris before storage. Follow these steps carefully:

• Thorough Cleaning: Use a pressure washer to clean all external surfaces, including the boom, chassis, wheels, and counterweights. Pay special attention to joints and hydraulic cylinders where grime can accumulate.
• Inspect for Damage: Look for any visible damages such as cracks, dents, or wear. Identifying these early helps schedule repairs and avoid exacerbating the issues.
• Drain or Check Fluids: Depending on storage duration and conditions, you may need to drain fuel or hydrological fluids or top them up to levels recommended by the manufacturer. This also includes checking engine oil levels and coolant condition.
• Lubrication: Cover all moving parts like hinges, bearings, and cables with appropriate lubricant to prevent rust and freezing, especially in colder climates.
• Tire Maintenance: Inspect the tires for wear and pressure. Inflate them to the recommended level to prevent flat spots during long storage.

Properly preparing your crane before storage sets the foundation for the next steps and ensures that the crane stays in good condition over time.

Choosing the Right Storage Location

One of the most important factors when figuring out how to store a mobile crane properly is the selection of the storage environment. Not all storage locations offer the same level of protection against weather and environmental damage. The ideal storage location depends on the availability of indoor space, weather conditions in your area, and how long you plan to store the crane.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage

Indoor storage provides the best protection from rain, snow, wind, direct sunlight, and temperature extremes. Locations like warehouses, garages, or covered sheds shield the crane from moisture, UV rays, and debris. This helps reduce corrosion and weather-related deterioration. If indoor storage is available, it should be your first choice.

Outdoor storage is often necessary due to the size of mobile cranes, but it requires additional protective actions to prevent damage:

• Always park the crane on a firm, level surface that supports its weight and prevents sinking or shifting.
• Use sturdy, waterproof covers to shield the crane, especially the boom and hydraulic systems.
• Make sure the site is free of vegetation and debris that could trap moisture against the crane.

Environmental Considerations

The key environmental factors to consider when storing your mobile crane include:

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing a Mobile Crane

Now that we’ve covered initial preparation and storage environment, let’s proceed with a step-by-step approach on how to store a mobile crane properly:

1. Set the Crane on a Level Surface: Parking the crane on uneven ground can cause hydraulic pressure imbalance in cylinders or suspension stress. Avoid soft or muddy surfaces to prevent the crane from sinking or tilting.
2. Lower and Secure the Boom: Fully retract and lower the boom to minimize exposure and reduce the crane’s overall height, making it stable. Lock the boom in place using mechanical locks if your crane model has them.
3. Disengage and Secure Controls: Ensure all control levers and switches are disengaged or locked to prevent accidental movements.
4. Support the Crane’s Weight: Use proper cribbing or blocks under outriggers or tracks to evenly distribute weight and prevent ground sinking or damage.
5. Drain Fuel or Add Stabilizers: For long-term storage, drain the fuel tank or add fuel stabilizers to prevent degradation and clogging.
6. Disconnect the Battery: To avoid battery drain and corrosion, disconnect or remove the battery. Store it in a dry, temperature-controlled environment and maintain charging periodically.
7. Cover the Crane: Place a weather-resistant, breathable cover over the crane. Avoid tarps that trap moisture, opting for specialized covers meant for heavy equipment.
8. Seal Openings: Seal air intakes, exhaust pipes, and other openings using plastic bags or plugs to keep out moisture, dust, and pests.
9. Schedule Regular Inspections: Even when in storage, inspect the crane at least monthly. Check for signs of rust, pest infestation, and fluid leaks, and rotate tires if needed.

Maintenance Tips During Storage

Storage is not a “set it and forget it” scenario. Mobile cranes require ongoing maintenance to ensure they remain operational after storage. Here are some tips on maintenance during storage:

• Regularly Start and Run the Engine: Start the crane’s engine every few weeks to keep internal components lubricated and batteries charged.
• Hydraulic System Care: Cycle hydraulic controls periodically to circulate fluids and prevent seals from drying out.
• Tire Care: Rotate tires occasionally and check for pressure loss to avoid flat spots or cracking.
• Check for Pests: Inspect for rodents and insects which can damage wiring or hoses.
• Document Condition: Keep detailed records of inspections, maintenance activities, and storage conditions for future reference.

Special Considerations for Long-Term Storage

Long-term storage, defined as any period exceeding six months, demands extra care when you store a mobile crane properly. Consider the following additional steps:

• Fluid Replacement: Replace hydraulic fluids and lubricants with those rated for long-term stability.
• Seal Hydraulic Lines: Use plugs and caps to close off hydraulic lines securely to prevent contamination.
• Use Anti-corrosion Sprays: Apply corrosion inhibitors on vulnerable components.
• Battery Removal: Remove batteries and store them separately with regular charging to prevent freezing or sulfation.
• Protect Tires and Tracks: Place the crane on supports to lift weight off tires or tracks, reducing stress over long periods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing a Mobile Crane

Knowing common pitfalls helps you avoid costly errors in crane storage. Here’s what to watch out for:

Legal and Safety Considerations

Insurance companies and regulatory bodies may require proper storage procedures to maintain coverage and compliance. When you store a mobile crane properly, you reduce liability risks such as accidental startup, tip-overs, or unauthorized use. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local safety regulations, and create a safety checklist for storage protocols to ensure your mobile crane remains not just operational but also safe for everyone around.

Summary Table: Recommended Actions for Proper Mobile Crane Storage

Conclusion

Properly storing a mobile crane is an essential but often overlooked aspect of equipment care that ensures your machine stays safe, reliable, and ready for use at any time. By following careful preparation steps, choosing the right storage environment, performing regular maintenance, and avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your crane. Understanding how to store a mobile crane properly will protect your investment, minimize repair costs, and guarantee safety on job sites. Whether your crane is set aside for a short break between projects or long-term storage, the right storage practices are the foundation of effective crane management.