Critical Maintenance on Construction Equipment

by | Sep 12, 2016 | Machinery and Tools

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The investment in equipment is likely your single largest capital investment if you own a construction company. Purchase is extremely costly, and repairs can be very costly, too. Keeping your equipment in good working order will save you money, and will prevent down time caused by equipment breakdown. Here are some important steps you should regularly take on your heavy equipment.

  • Keep it Clean – Keeping your equipment clean inside and out helps prevent rust and other damage. Cleaning the equipment also gives you the opportunity to regularly inspect it, so that you will notice any potential problems early on, as well as notice any damage that has been done to the equipment. If your equipment sits for the winter, it is critical to clean it thoroughly before the down time begins.
  • Maintain on schedule – The easiest way to minimize equipment downtime is to ensure that equipment is regularly maintained. Staying on or ahead of schedule and replacing critical parts like telescoping hydraulic cylinders on dump trucks when these show cracks or heavy wear prevents unexpected breakdowns. Check for fluid leaks and be sure to replace fluid on schedule. Make sure engine oil is changed regularly, and always check for wear on belts. Set up a schedule that reminds you when maintenance is due on all your equipment.
  • Keep Parts on Hand – Keeping a small inventory of parts on site can help you take care of minor repairs and maintenance issues quickly and easily. When the parts are readily available, you may be able to take care of equipment issues with no down time. In particular, it may be important to keep extras of any parts that must be custom made, like hydraulic cylinders.
  • Have Good Relationships with Vendors – No matter how diligent you are about maintenance, there will be occasions when you will have a breakdown. The key to being able to get back up and running quickly is having a good mechanic available when you need one and having parts vendors that can get needed parts quickly. Some parts, like telescoping hydraulic cylinders, may have to be custom made. For items like these, it pays to have a vendor who can provide quick turnaround.

Your heavy equipment is the lifeline of your business. Staying on top of the maintenance schedule and having a plan in place for managing unexpected repairs ensures your equipment will be ready for every job.