Cleaning your sideloader regularly is a good routine to adopt, not only as it helps to keep the machine in good working order but can also help psychologically to encourage operators to take greater care.
When it comes to Baumann sideloaders, using a pressure washer or steam cleaner is perfectly fine, although as with any electro-mechanical machine, it is best to keep water jets away from any electrical components. Common sense is recommended – components are designed to be resistant to splashing from rainwater, but are not designed for high-pressure water jets.
Cleaning The Engine Bay Of A Sideloader
Just like a van or car, the engine bay of a diesel sideloader can be cleaned, but extra care is recommended. Even with high ratings for the prevention of dust and water ingress, sealed boxes, cabling, and sensors are susceptible to high-pressure jets and are never 100% waterproof.
The temperature and speed monitor of electric motors, for example, requires a plugged section of cabling which, if hit hard enough with water, could be damaged. For that reason, we recommend steam cleaning, with the nozzle being kept around a metre away from sensitive areas.
Steam cleaning deck boards is no problem, but care should be taken around cameras, lights and sensors.
Sliding or moving parts that are greased will undoubtedly attract dirt. Cleaning these with jets of water or steam is perfectly fine, but the grease should be re-applied before use, particularly in the well channels. Lifting chains should be lubricated with anti-corrosion sprays, lubrication sprays (like WD40) can also be applied and other sprays can also be purchased to remove water from electronic boards.
Use compressed air on electric motors and fans to lightly blow them clean. When it comes to electric machines one area that needs extra care in particular is the battery box. Water should be kept away at all times.
Many years ago, battery boxes would have drainage holes to allow any accumulated water to drain away, however the natural release of vapours during charging means that some acid residue would also be present.
Battery vapours can form an acidic residue that corrodes the battery cells and box.
Drainage holes would therefore mean this could go directly into the waste water system, perhaps having corroded truck components or electrical cables in the process. The downside to the lack of drainage is any water will accumulate, corroding the battery and damage the box. For this reason, a tube is provided, similar to an oil dip stick, to monitor and extract any moisture that has pooled in the battery box.
How To Clean Inside A Sideloader
Inside the cabin, a hand air blower or small compressor will help blast away any dirt, but again no water – for one thing, the seat will act like a sponge, but electrical components are also present. A host of car cleaning products are as equally effective in the operator cab.
Why Choose A Baumann Sideloader?
One message that has emerged from customers over the past few decades has been the quality, strength and reliability of the Baumann sideloaders. The company’s long-term approach puts real emphasis on the quality of manufacture and product reliability. With high-quality support, they have a new machine that improves their operation, reduces waste, provides greater comfort and productivity, as well as getting immediate fuel and maintenance savings.
Get in touch with us here to talk about getting a used or new sideloader.
