When winter wraps up and the snow finally gives way to spring, it’s tempting to park your equipment and not think about it again until the first forecast of next season. But for operators running KAGE equipment—whether it’s snow plows, pushers, or specialized attachments—off-season preparation and snow plow storage is one of the most important steps in protecting your investment and ensuring reliable performance year after year.
Proper storage and maintenance isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency and attention to detail. A little time spent at the end of the season can prevent seized components, hydraulic issues, and premature wear when it matters most—during the next storm.
Start with a Thorough Cleaning
Across all KAGE winter maintenance products, the first and most important step is removing corrosive materials. Snow operations expose equipment to salt, sand, and chemical deicers, all of which accelerate rust and deterioration if left sitting for months.
Before storing anything, thoroughly wash down the equipment. Pay close attention to joints, seams, and hidden areas where buildup tends to collect. Let everything dry completely before moving on to lubrication and storage steps. Skipping this step can undo the benefits of every other maintenance action.
KAGE Snow Plows and Pushers
For KAGE snow plows and pushers, one of the key maintenance points is the spring trip system. At the end of the season, the spring tubes should be treated with a lubricant such as WD-40 or a similar anti-seize product. After spraying, slowly trip the plow a few times. This motion works the lubricant into the spring tubes and helps prevent internal corrosion and seizing during the off-season.
Hydraulic components also deserve attention. Keep all hydraulic fittings, hoses, and couplers clean and out of the dirt. Contamination is one of the fastest ways to cause long-term damage in hydraulic systems. Even during storage, dirt can work its way into exposed fittings if they’re not properly protected.
Electrical plugs are often less of a concern. While some operators recommend dielectric grease, it’s worth noting that grease can attract dirt and debris if exposed. In many cases, leaving plugs clean and dry is sufficient.
As for storage conditions, the ideal scenario is under a roof—inside a shop or covered area. However, KAGE products are built for tough environments and can be stored outside if necessary. In fact, many units are stored outdoors at the shop itself. While indoor storage is preferred, outdoor storage is perfectly acceptable if the equipment is properly cleaned and maintained beforehand.
Finally, don’t forget standard greasing. All grease points should be serviced either right after the season ends or just before the next season begins. This ensures components remain protected and ready for use.
AdvantEDGE Cutting Edge System
The AdvantEDGE system requires a bit more hands-on attention at the end of the season. Each cutting edge should be removed from the plow. Once removed, blow out any dirt, debris, or buildup that may have accumulated behind the edge.
After cleaning, spray the springs and slide bar with WD-40 or a similar lubricant. Then manually work the mechanism up and down a few times. This helps distribute the lubricant evenly and prevents the system from sticking or seizing over time.
Neglecting this step can lead to reduced performance and increased wear when the system is put back into service.
LiquidRage Sprayer
For LiquidRage sprayers, cleanliness and proper draining are critical. Hoses should never be left sitting in dirt, whether during use or storage. Dirt contamination can lead to clogs, wear, and reduced efficiency.
If the sprayer is used only for summer applications, it must be fully drained before winter storage. Any remaining water in the system can freeze, expand, and cause serious damage to hoses, fittings, and internal components. Taking the time to properly drain the system ensures it’s ready to go when warm weather returns.
KAGE Klawz Snow Tires
KAGE Klawz snow tires are built for performance in harsh winter conditions, but like any tire, they require proper storage when not in use.
If the tires are removed from the machine for the off-season, they should be stored out of direct sunlight. UV exposure can cause rubber to dry out and crack over time. A shaded or indoor environment is ideal to preserve the integrity of the tires and extend their lifespan.
WingLine Laser
The WingLine laser system is one of the simpler components when it comes to off-season handling. In most cases, these units remain in the cab year-round. As long as they are kept clean and protected from extreme conditions, no significant maintenance is typically required.
Under-Hitch Tractor Undercarriage
For the under-hitch tractor undercarriage, attention should again focus on cleanliness and lubrication. Hydraulic hoses and couplers should be kept out of the dirt to prevent contamination.
Each adjustable link should be sprayed with WD-40 or a similar lubricant and then worked back and forth. This ensures that threads remain free and easy to adjust the next time the system is hooked up.
If the unit is equipped with a lift arm, make sure it is properly greased. In many cases, these undercarriage systems remain installed on the tractor year-round, but that doesn’t eliminate the need for maintenance. Keeping components lubricated ensures smooth operation when switching attachments.
Storage Philosophy: Simple but Consistent
The overall approach to off-season storage of KAGE products is straightforward: clean, lubricate, and protect. While indoor storage is always preferred, these products are designed to withstand real-world conditions and can handle outdoor storage when necessary.
The key is not perfection—it’s consistency. Removing corrosive materials, protecting moving parts, and keeping hydraulic systems clean will go a long way in extending the life of your equipment.
Be Ready for the Next Season
When the first snowstorm hits, there’s no time to deal with seized springs, contaminated hydraulics, or frozen systems. Off-season preparation ensures your equipment is ready to perform when it matters most.
By following these simple maintenance practices across your KAGE lineup—from plows and pushers to sprayers, tires, and undercarriage systems—you’re not just storing equipment. You’re preserving reliability, performance, and the investment you’ve made in your operation.
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