Equipment Maintenance Best Practices

Properly maintained equipment keeps crews safe and productive.


Daily checks (before each shift):

  • Chainsaws: chain tension, sharpness, chain brake function, fuel mix, air filter
  • Chippers: knife sharpness, hydraulic fluid, feed roller condition, safety interlocks
  • Stump grinders: cutting teeth condition, engine oil, hydraulic levels
  • Bucket trucks: boom condition, hydraulics, outriggers, controls, dielectric testing

  • Scheduled maintenance:

  • Chainsaws: full engine service every 100 hours
  • Chippers: full knife replacement and oil change every 250 hours
  • Stump grinders: engine service and hydraulic filter every 100 hours
  • Bucket trucks: OSHA-required annual inspection by a qualified person (29 CFR 1910.67)
  • Cranes: OSHA 1926 Subpart CC annual inspection, daily pre-use checks

  • StumpIQ equipment tracking:

    The Equipment page shows real-time status, hours used, last maintenance date, and upcoming service due dates. Set up alerts so you never miss a maintenance window.


    Important: Never operate equipment with known defects. A sharp chain and a sharp chipper knife are not just about productivity — they are critical safety equipment.

    Still need help? Ask StumpIQ AI — click the chat bubble or press Cmd+J