Heavy-duty equipment makes the world go round. One way or another, every industry benefits from well-built, powerful machines. Whether they’re a construction company, which uses cranes and bulldozers, or a retail store, which needs trucks to deliver its goods. With expensive machinery also comes crucial maintenance. Proper care could save you thousands of dollars and ensure that your services in Wisconsin run without a hitch.
Here are the five ways to improve the lifespan of your heavy equipment:
1. Inspect the Components
Are all gears running smoothly? Or do you need to replace them with new ones by hobbing or broaching? Is there still juice in your battery? Have you checked if the brake fluid is working? Ask your employees if they have noticed any changes or experienced any problems while operating the machines. It’s better to get to the root of the problem early than late.
2. Clean Properly
Like any other heavy-duty machinery, your equipment collects dust and debris on a daily basis. It may seem useless to clean your equipment since it will inevitably gather dirt again, but regular washes ensure safety and performance. You don’t want your equipment to spread clubroot and contaminate the soil. It’s best to start from bottom to top. That way, you can make sure that dirt from the vehicles’ northern parts won’t spread down, which will lead to you cleaning the body again. Don’t be afraid to use plenty of soap and bleach; your equipment needs it.
3. Do Regular Maintenance Procedures
You have to make sure that you change your oil when it’s necessary. The mileage differs depending on your usage and equipment type. While doing an oil change, you also have to swap your oil filter for a new one. Inflate your tires every once in a while for smooth trips. Watch how your transmission fluid appears. If something smells or looks wrong, consult a mechanic or check the vehicle’s manual.
4. Be Organized
Many make use of a checklist to ensure that their machinery’s in tip-top condition. You can do whatever works for you, but the important thing is to be organized. Keep track of when you last changed your oil or when you last cleaned the undercarriage. You don’t have to inspect, wash, and change fluids all at the same time. But what you must do is to carry out those tasks systematically, not only when there’s something wrong.
5. Educate Yourself and Everyone Who Uses the Equipment
The best way to ensure that your equipment runs at its best capacity is by understanding it. You want to maximize your pricey equipment’s capabilities. On top of that, you can only care for it correctly when you know it best. Once you do, set an example for your employees. Show them firsthand how it must be used and cared for. That way, everyone can have a proper understanding of the equipment’s operation and maintenance.
Proper maintenance can mean the difference between an accident-free, productive operation and a safety hazard. On top of that, it can also save you thousands of dollars. Clean, change, and maintain for a well-oiled machine.
