Maintaining your SMC mast: Six things to look for

Though, like with anything, it’s important to take care of your mast to keep it in optimal condition. Whether you’re looking to self-service your mast, or would rather leave it to our US and UK specialists to service, here are six things to look out for:

1. Damaged tubes

Check your tubes. Checking the condition of your mast tubes is one of the primary areas to inspect. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, sheers, dents and corrosion. Damaged tubes can compromise the structural integrity of the mast, leading to potential failures or collapses. With an SMC in-house service, we always remove and check each individual tube. If any damage is detected, it is crucial to address it promptly by repairing or replacing the affected tubes to maintain the overall strength and stability of the mast. SMC can help you with any refurbishment, replacement components and maintenance.

2. Collars

Collars play a significant role in securing the mast and preventing unwanted movement. During the servicing process, carefully examine the condition of the collars. Look for signs of wear, cracks and looseness. Ensure that the collars are securely fastened and properly aligned. If any issues are identified, take necessary measures to tighten or replace the collars, as loose or damaged collars can result in instability or failure of the mast.

3. Locking handles and pins

Locking handles and locking pins (dependent on the mast that you have) are vital components that enable easy adjustment and secure positioning of the mast. When servicing the mast, inspect the locking handles/pins for proper functionality. Check if they lock and release smoothly and securely. Any signs of wear, stiffness, or damage should be addressed promptly. Lubrication may be necessary to ensure smooth operation and it’s worth noting that bottles of lubrication are included in SMC’s self-service kits. Faulty or ineffective locking handles/pins can compromise the stability and safety of the mast, so it is important to keep them in good working condition.

4. Guy wires and tensioning

Check the tension of any guy wires your mast may have, to ensure proper support and stability of the mast. Adjust and tighten them if necessary to maintain the desired tension.

5. Electrical connections

If your mast is equipped with electrical components, inspect the connections for any signs of damage or corrosion. Loose or damaged connections can result in electrical issues or safety hazards. Secure and repair any faulty connections as needed.

6. Paint and coatings

Assess the condition of your mast’s paint or coatings. Look for areas where the protective layer may be peeling, flaking or showing signs of corrosion. Address any damaged or compromised areas to prevent further deterioration and maintain the mast’s durability. We can respray your mast for you as part of an SMC in-house service.

Choose from a range of SMC servicing options:

Servicing your mast provides peace of mind, knowing that it is in optimal working condition and has been thoroughly inspected, giving you the confidence and satisfaction that your mast is still as good as it was on day one. Let SMC help you with your servicing needs.

• Request a self-service spares kit

Our service kits are designed to give you the freedom to maintain your mast on your own terms. Each kit comes with easy-to-follow instructions, enabling you to enhance the durability of your mast for many years.

• Save yourself time and schedule an in-house SMC service

Our skilled team can offer on-site maintenance services at our facilities located in the US and UK, providing you with convenience and assurance that your mast is mission ready. This saves you time and gives peace of mind. Contact us today on +44 (0)23 8024 6200 or +1 (386) 221-5006.

Learn more about the difference between mast materials we offer at SMC in this 1-minute read here.