TC30 & FEL

[Daryl]

I asked this on another thread and did not really get an answer so I will ask again.
I have a TC30 and bought a FEL for it last spring. Was going to use it to spread gravel but I have found a guy that will deliver and spread with truck. I use my tractor 95% of time for mowing so I take the FEl off and then put it back on each time. I park my tractor in covered area. My qestion is, I would like to take the FEL off and leave it off only putting it on when I need it. It will have to be in the weather no covered area for it. Will this damage it? Is there anything I should do to "weather proof it"?
Thank you
daryl

[ccsial]

I don't know if it would "damage" it, but it will start rusting. I would at least cover it to keep the sun and weather off of it. I would not set it on the ground. I'd put some wood blocks under it.

Be sure the ends of the hydraulic hoses are kept clean. I put the plugs in and then put a baggie and rubber band to further protect from dirt.

[RoyJackson]

Find a nice level place to park it. Don't park the loader on ground (meaning directly on dirt or grass). Better on concrete, if you can.

Put a light film of grease on all the cylinder rods, remove any minor rust and touch up those areas with paint (Rustoleam works).
Cap off all the hydraulic hoses and lay them (or use wireties) over the loader frame.
Then cover it with a plastic tarp. Just leave it lose enough to allow air circulation.
Just check it out once a month and regrease and touch up, if required.

I leave my loader off all mowing season unless I have a task which requires it's use (such as brushcutting). Leaving the loader off is easier on the front wheel bearings (so I'm told).

Downside is the lack of front weight occasionally when transporting my RFM.

Remember, tractors set outside at many many dealers for months at a time.