Construction work will carry on throughout the winter. You are responsible for any damage caused by the cold to any heavy equipment that you own or rent, regardless of whether the damage was caused by the equipment itself or the weather.

Due to this fact, numerous construction companies and workers are aware of the significance of winter equipment maintenance in terms of reducing overall maintenance costs. By adhering to these seven preventative maintenance strategies, you and your machine operators will be able to safeguard your construction equipment, reduce the number of expensive heavy equipment repairs, and save money.

Maintain a regular check on the level of the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).

Even though telematics are becoming more and more of a standard feature on more and more machines, you should still keep an eye on the level of DEF in your vehicle, particularly when the temperature is below freezing. The reason for this is that starting DEF has a chance of causing the computer to become unresponsive. If the temperature is below freezing, it is recommended that you use a block heater to pre-heat the engine as well as the oils before beginning to operate the machine.

It is important to keep DEF in a warm location throughout the winter months. Because diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) can either lose or gain its purity depending on the temperature and humidity of its environment, it is essential to know how to properly store it.

You should always make sure that your apparatus is clean.

The majority of the money that is spent on maintaining a piece of construction equipment goes toward repairing and replacing its undercarriage. This is due to the fact that it sustains the greatest amount of damage on a daily basis. This is especially true during the winter months, which highlights the significance of performing routine maintenance checks. When night falls, the temperature drops, and the mud that has accumulated on the undercarriage during the day will freeze and stick to the vehicle. In the event that something goes wrong, it will be difficult to move around the workplace and access essential components of the machine.

Frozen mud and ice can speed up the wear and tear on machines, which can result in damage to the tracks. If you want to reduce the likelihood of damage and save money on insurance, you should make it a habit to clean them up every night.

Make Sure to Make Use of the Right Fluids, Gases, and Oils.

Oil requirements can vary widely from machine to machine. In addition to that, the amount of fluid that is necessary can change significantly depending on the season. It is essential to consult the owner’s manual or the guidelines provided by the manufacturer when determining which oils, gases, and fluids to use and when to use them. Because of this, continuous monitoring of the fluid conditions is required. Some things to keep an eye out for are the following: braking fluid In temperatures below zero, brake fluid can freeze, making it impossible to stop the vehicle in time in the event of an emergency.

Every evening, check to see that the appropriate amounts of fluids are present, and that the gas tank is at its maximum capacity. Eliminating condensation is a top priority because it is the primary factor that contributes to liquid tanks freezing over. Heavy equipment needs to have its fluids topped off or drained every night as part of its preventative maintenance routine.

Obtain the appropriate coolant. It is essential to keep in mind that not all coolants are able to perform their functions at the same temperature. It is especially important to make sure that you have the right one if you will be working in temperatures below zero. Maintaining a full level will help prevent condensation from forming.

There needs to be a change made to the hydraulic fluid. Always make sure to replace the hydraulic fluid in the equipment before storing it or turning the power back on.

Ensure that all electronic devices are turned off.

It is highly recommended that you keep your machines operating even in areas where the temperature can drop to as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit (or -40 degrees Celsius). Because of the extreme cold, it might take all day for the machines to get to operating temperature. If you continue to operate in this manner, you will never accomplish anything.

On a parking lot that is covered in snow, there is a yellow excavator with a bucket attachment. The tracks of the machine are covered in snow.

On the other hand, you are unable to maintain a normal engine revving while the vehicle is idling. It is recommended by technicians that the speed of the machine be maintained at 1100–1200 RPM at all times. This is due to the fact that maintaining the engine within its typical rpm range of 700 to 800 will not be sufficient to keep it warm.

Always make sure the engines in your vehicle are kept at a temperature that is comfortable.

The engines found in heavy machinery operate most efficiently in warm environments. On the other hand, during the winter months, the engine might not get hot enough to perform adequately on a job that isn’t very demanding. Therefore, it’s possible that you’ll need engine block heaters when the weather gets colder. They can be of assistance in maintaining an optimal operating temperature for your engine, which will help you avoid the potential damage that can be caused by making frequent cold starts while working.

Make sure your batteries are always fully charged before using them.

When the temperature drops, it increases the risk that the batteries in a diesel engine or an electric machine that hasn’t been properly maintained will discharge, which can be hazardous. This is true even if the machines have been properly maintained. In the event that you won’t be using the apparatus during the winter, be sure to disconnect the battery and store it in a warm location. They will have gained additional preparation time by the time the subsequent construction cycle begins in the spring.

You should consider purchasing a new battery, however, if you are certain that the device will be utilised continuously throughout the winter season. A battery that performs adequately during the summer will give you fits when the temperature drops below freezing.

Protect the machinery from adverse weather conditions.

There may be challenges involved for certain construction sites in winterizing their equipment. They need to be kept in a place that is secure, completely enclosed, and has a lot of heat. Having said that, a significant number of contractors won’t be in this position. If this is the case, you will need to take every safety measure possible to ensure that the equipment will remain intact throughout the harsh winters in the north. Depending on the severity of the weather, this may necessitate transporting the equipment to and from the location each day, parking it next to a fence, covering it with a tarp, or constructing a temporary shelter for it. Alternatively, it may require that a temporary shelter be constructed.

The icy temperatures of winter can be hard on not only our bodies but also our gadgets and other electronic devices. During the winter months, you should take precautions to avoid expensive breakdowns of your heavy machinery. This is true whether you own or lease the equipment. Because of this, it is essential to devise a schedule for yearly maintenance and stick to it religiously. This will, in addition to reducing costs, lead to an increase in efficiency.

There is no construction industry without the various heavy equipment used to execute complex and highly demanding tasks. There are two options when it comes to accessing construction equipment fleet: renting or outright purchase. Understandably, renting is more popular because it helps cut costs on these expensive pieces of equipment that are seldom used.

Whether you are renting or buying construction equipment, you have to deal with downtime. Equipment malfunctions are unavoidable in any construction setup. Luckily, this blog discusses how to prevent the most common equipment malfunctions that lead to downtime on site.

Tip #1. Ensure operators are familiar with the equipment.

Asking an operator to control construction equipment they are not familiar with will only lead to one thing – problems. Interestingly, assigning incompetent operators to equipment is one of the leading reasons for equipment malfunctions in the construction industry. It also puts the operator at risk of injuries and accidents.

You are more likely to minimize downtime and avoid machinery-related accidents when you ensure operators are knowledgeable, well-trained, and skilled to use the equipment. Therefore, it is highly advisable to train potential operators before deploying them to handle the equipment. Although it may seem like a costly move, it is profitable in the long run.

Tip #2. Inspect the machinery on arrival.

Do not take delivery of a piece of equipment on-site except you have adequately assessed and inspected it. While this may require a little extra time, a circle check can help you pick out problems and issues with the machine that may have happened before it got delivered to you.

It also ensures you do not take responsibility for issues that may occur during the rental period.

Tip #3. Adhere to the maintenance schedule of the rental company.

Scheduled maintenance is almost always part of equipment rentals, especially if the rental period is relatively longer. Adhering to the letter of schedule will help prevent breakdowns. You can handle the routine maintenance tasks by yourself and send the equipment over to the renter for the more complicated service and maintenance.

For example, you may be able to handle undercarriage maintenance in your wheelhouse. However, the rental company would be responsible for changing a timing belt and other similar engine services.

Whether basic or advanced maintenance, it is vital to stick to the schedule. If you skip scheduled regular maintenance, which leads to a bigger problem, you would be responsible for the repair costs.

Tip #4. Never ignore weather reports and equipment tolerances.

Construction tasks are not meant to continue under extreme weather conditions. Working through the snow or rain might help you meet deadlines faster, but it ultimately leads to equipment breakdowns. You do not want to subject your rental equipment to these working conditions.

Most construction equipment types usually have definite temperature tolerances. Anything outside this range will most likely cause equipment failure and costly damages. That is why you should take note of your equipment’s temperature and weather tolerance limits and work within those limits.

Yes, you may spend more time on your project, but you can avoid unplanned equipment failure and repair costs.

Tip #5. Watch out for warning signals.

What most people often call “idiot lights” are more important than we think. These signals and signs on your equipment’s dashboard notify you of issues that may degenerate into bigger problems. There are several sensors in any construction equipment, each designed to track every aspect of the machine. The warning signals are to inform you that these processes or parts are not functioning as expected.

Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the signs and act on them immediately. Otherwise, you may be in for extended downtime and extensive repair costs. Your rental agreement will most likely cover instructions on approaching the warning light situations in the machine. If not, you should immediately reach out to the rental company for help.

Tip #6. Use equipment for the intended purpose only.

You can ask competent and trained operators to get the best out of the equipment to maximize output. Doing that can boost operational efficiency and ensure your fleet lasts longer. But no matter how enticing the idea is, do not push your equipment to do what it is not designed to do.

Only use your pieces of equipment for what it is meant for. Likewise, do not use them for entertainment or outside of business hours. You will most likely not get compensation from your insurance company if you misuse the machinery or push it past its original limits.

So, when you protect your equipment, you are indirectly protecting yourself.

Tip #7. Adopt proper storage measures.

The chances are high that you will not use every piece of equipment in your fleet for every hour of the day. Storing your equipment properly when not in use can help you avoid equipment failure and malfunctions while minimizing downtime.

The storage measure you adopt depends on the equipment type. For example, you can set up equipment covers, tarps, or a carport where you can park your equipment. Likewise, you can store them in warehouses and garages where they are fully protected from elements.

The goal here is to protect your rental equipment from the elements. And this move can keep your job site running smoothly by preventing malfunctions and failures.

You Are Still Responsible For Rental Equipment

Perhaps you have decided to rent your pieces of equipment to save costs, especially purchase, insurance, and maintenance costs; you are still responsible for taking care of these pieces of rental equipment. Therefore, you must take time to understand the possible risks and malfunctions associated with each piece of equipment and devise practical means to prevent or avoid them.

 

The heavy equipment fleet and the construction industry are inseparable. One depends on the other. The heavy equipment set is the only reason most construction tasks are possible today. When it comes to accessing construction equipment, it is either you buy outrightly or hire one. The latter is preferred because it helps to save cost, considering how scarcely the equipment is used.

Every machine, either rented or owned, is prone to malfunctions. The ownership title doesn’t affect the downtime. So, it is important to understand the common malfunctions your machines may be prone to and how you can prevent them. This is the simplest way to ensure your project keeps going.

Without wasting time, let’s get to it!

Use operators who are familiar with the equipment.

Most rental equipment malfunctions are due to machines being handled by inexperienced or untrained operators. Asides from the potential issues this may cause to the equipment, such individuals are at a high risk of on-the-job injuries and accidents.

Operators are required to have the right skills, training, and knowledge to use heavy machinery correctly and safely. While it can be difficult to commit resources to the training of operators for each new piece of equipment on the job site, the investment is worth it in the long run. It helps prevent malfunctions and accidents while preserving value and profit.

Bottom Line – Training machine operators is a proven way of guaranteeing safety and preventing machinery malfunctions.

Do a circle check on every delivery.

A circle check is compulsory for every piece of machinery delivered to your site. You can use a circle check form to document issues or problems (if any) before proceeding to use the machine. While a circle check can be time-consuming, it makes up for this by ensuring you do not miss out on any pre-delivery damage the machine may have. It also protects you from potential issues that may develop while using the machine.

Stick to the maintenance schedule of the rental company.

Rental equipment will most likely be subjected to scheduled maintenance, especially if the rental is for a long period. It is best to adhere to the letter of schedule to avoid breakdowns. While you may be expected to handle some easy tasks, the complicated aspects of the maintenance will most likely be done by the renter.

For instance, you may be able to do undercarriage maintenance, but send the piece of equipment over to the renter for a timing belt replacement or a full engine service. This can be compared to sticking to the maintenance schedule in your car’s owner’s manual. Your non-compliance may lead to you taking responsibility for the repair costs if a problem that regular maintenance could have prevented happens.

Observe weather reports and equipment tolerances.

As much as you want to meet your project deadlines, you should not put your construction crew as well as your machinery through the hassles of harsh weather. It is better to stop work when it starts to rain, snow, or the weather becomes extreme. Most construction equipment out there has varying temperature tolerances. If you do not adhere to those tolerance levels, it could lead to equipment failure and repairs, all of which would be your responsibility.

So, it is best to know and adhere to the weather and temperature tolerance of your equipment and use them only within those limits. Yes, you may be forced to work slightly behind schedule, but you can rest assured your equipment will be ready for work whenever you need it.

Do not ignore the warning signals.

“Idiot lights” as these signals are usually called are not as idiotic as the name suggests. Each of these lights is warning you about something whenever they show up on the dashboard of your equipment.

Every piece of equipment has a wide range of sensors designed to monitor everything, including oil pressure, electrical current, temperature, and others. Once they sense something unusual, they inform you immediately in the form of warning signals.

Ignoring these warnings will only lead to the failure of your equipment when you need it most, as well as outrageous repair costs and extended downtime. So, instead of ignoring these signals and signs, you should find out what they are warning you about and act on it.

You will most likely find instructions on how to approach such situations in your rental agreement. If you cannot find them, speak to the rental company about these developments.

Use equipment only for their intended purpose.

It is common to see site supervisors and/or operators push equipment to their limits. This can be a good thing – having trained and experienced operators get the best out of your equipment will improve its operational efficiency and lifespan.

However, it becomes a bad thing if this level of familiarity leads to improper equipment use. It is advisable to use the equipment in your fleet for only the purposes they are made for. Likewise, there is no justification whatsoever for using the machinery outside of working hours or for non-work purposes.

It doesn’t matter if you have insurance coverage for your equipment – they do not cover the misuse of a piece of equipment. Also, when you push your fleet of equipment to their limits or have them serve the wrong purposes, you are putting the renter (you) at the risk of liability if these reckless moves end up in damages.

So, when you protect the equipment, you are indirectly protecting yourself.

Storing your equipment correctly after use.

There is no way your equipment will work every day – it is not feasible even on construction sites that operate 24 hours a day. Storing your equipment properly when not in use will prevent equipment malfunction and failure.

There is no one way to do this: you may install tarps and equipment covers to protect your prized assets. Alternatively, you can ensure they are parked under a carport or under similar covers. You can also park them in garages or warehouses to protect the elements.

Irrespective of the protective measure you have chosen, adequate protection of your rental equipment from the elements can be a simple but effective means of preventing failures and malfunctions when they are used on the job site.

You remain responsible for rental equipment, despite being a renter.

Renters tend to think they are less responsible or not responsible for rental equipment. This is false. While renting equipment is more cost-effective than outright purchase, since you are not responsible for the purchase, insurance, or maintenance costs, you are still responsible for taking care of the machinery you have rented.

So, you must acquaint yourself with the possible risks and equipment malfunctions you may experience, and understand how to properly prevent them.

No equipment runs forever. It gets weak or faulty at some point and requires repairs. There are a couple of options to choose from when this happens. You can either go the traditional way by repairing or buying a replacement, which could be a new or a working used version.

But that is not all – you can also choose to rebuild the equipment. That being said, this option is relatively new and largely unknown. This post will help you choose between replacing, repairing, and renewing your faulty equipment.

You will come across a few useful calculations and questions to help you in the same respect.

Why should you go for a replacement?

Brand New Equipment as Replacements

Most owners will prefer to replace their aging instrument with a brand new. And that is understandable. The brand new will offer not only the latest technology but also the longest lifespan possible. They will spend little or nothing on maintenance. Thanks to the newest technology, the improved hydraulics and interfaces can speed up an ongoing project. However, the downside is always the price – new equipment will most likely be expensive.

Used Equipment as Replacements

A similar but less expensive alternative is to replace it with used equipment. Such used equipment types are available at lower prices, especially at auctions or on the private market. Another upside is the relatively recent technology that is found in the used equipment.

These downsides are somewhat clouded by their shorter lifespans and the varying maintenance and quality records. The maintenance costs may be considerably high, especially when the equipment breaks down sooner. In the long run, used equipment is eventually replaced or rebuilt.

A few of these problems can be avoided by going for used equipment with low hours of 3,000 to 5,000 hours of use. A closer look at the maintenance records will help to avoid risky used equipment that may need several repairs in no time.

How frequently does the previous owner service the equipment? Where is it usually stored? Are the oil samples analyses consistent? The answers to these questions will help in your assessment of used equipment.

Why should you go for rebuilding?

With rebuilding, you spend less and get a like-new lifespan from the equipment. However, you must be prepared to wait, because rebuilding takes much time.

You might also miss out on some new technology – not all technology can be upgraded via rebuilding.

You can choose from a wide range of rebuilding options. Some rebuild just the power train components. Others combine separately sourced rebuilt parts into a whole machine. Either way, the approach is always the same.

After the inspection of the equipment, the rebuilding company disassembled it and rebuilt it from scratch. The rebuilding process includes the upgrading of any software or engineering processes. The rebuilt machine is properly tested and inspected before being dispatched.

The rebuilt equipment, most times, offers better performance, thanks to the new technology and parts. Some of the parts of interest in rebuilding an equipment include the engine, transmission, driveline, and the engine control module. Others are water, oil, and fuel pumps.

You may also ask that the rebuilding company do some extra work to suit your taste – hydraulic upgrades, cab upgrades, and painting.

Why should you go for repair?

If you need a fast and affordable means to get your faulty equipment back on track, repairing it is the way to go. You are better off repairing any equipment with one or two broken parts. It is even more suited for situations where you need the equipment back for an ongoing project quickly.

Repairing faulty equipment is the most affordable option on the list. However, it does little or nothing to extend the lifespan of the equipment. At best, it extends the lifespan of just a component – the faulty component.

The damage may affect other components of the machine if not discovered early. Wear and tear is another reason you may have several parts of a machine failing at once. The cost of repairs depends on the extent of the damage.

If there are no additional repairs required, a stopgap measure is a way to go. While that is ongoing, you can assess the possibilities of replacing or rebuilding the machine. The timeframe for repairs will determine how long you have to wait to rebuild or replace your equipment.

Sometimes, you may need to repair temporarily until you get to the time of the year when you can enjoy the best rebuilding or replacement prices.

Before you Repair, Replace or Rebuild…

You should do a proper background check before deciding to replace, repair, or rebuild your equipment. Do not limit your consideration to only the costs; you may be forced to go for the cheapest option – repairs.

The right way to go about it is to assess your options based on your situation. What is the equipment’s lifespan? Are there any possible future repairs over the next two or three years? You need to ask yourself these questions and many more.

For starters, we have highlighted a couple of essential questions to ask yourself before deciding to repair, rebuild or replace.

Is the equipment the best option for your business in line with the current trends?

Newer and better technologies are always introduced into the business world. The equipment that was the ‘latest’ a few years ago might have become obsolete today. This is why you should check the performance expectations and regulations, alongside the relevance of the current technology in today’s world.

It does not end there. You should also make plans for future needs. Rebuilding an equipment affords you the chance to extend its lifespan. But this would only be a good call if the equipment and its technology will remain relevant to your business in a few years. If not, can you upgrade the technology to the latest when it is time?

If the answers to these questions are negative, you are better off replacing the equipment.

Do you need new technology to stay relevant in business?

One of the biggest advantages of replacing older equipment is that it allows you to access the latest technologies.

From improved fuel efficiency to lower emissions, GPS locations, and remote sensing, equipment owners consistently find ways to enjoy top technological advancements. Why? It increases their chances of succeeding.

Another reason you may need to replace or rebuild your equipment is to adhere to new regulations. The authorities are always working on better regulations, for example, on emissions and safety. Although repairing or rebuilding are possible options here, replacing is usually the most cost-effective option.

New technology may be the gamechanger in some industries. For example, tractors equipped with remote sensing functionalities can analyze soil nutrients. Farmers can leverage this information to improve their yields. Likewise, newer dozers have intuitive interfaces and customizable steering and responsiveness. This means they can be configured to work in different terrains.

Weather sensing and GPS functionalities can help with fleet management and improve the security of the equipment.

Are your operating costs or fuel use significantly affected by new technology?

Operators spend considerably on fueling, especially if their fleets comprise mostly heavy equipment. So, any option that will offer improved fuel efficiency will be the right call. Rebuilding and replacing offer higher efficiency, although the latter is faster and easier. In terms of rebuilding, the powertrain of an old equipment can be revamped to improve fuel efficiency.

If buying a new machine will significantly reduce your current operating costs, you should go for it. Less fuel consumption means lower operating costs, and ultimately an improved bottom line.

What is the state of the equipment?

You may only need to repair or partially rebuild a machine if it is well-maintained. Conversely, the same cannot be said for one with a record of constant faults. Inspect the equipment physically and check the maintenance log.

You are looking at the articulation points, the hydraulic system and seals, and the engine compartment. If the equipment is not properly maintained, the repairs needed will most likely be extensive. Non-operational or badly hit equipment are better off replaced or rebuilt.

How much are you spending on maintenance in the future?

Wear and tear is unavoidable, even for the best-maintained equipment. Repairs can ensure constant operation but not an extended lifespan. For older equipment with several hours of use, the chances of more components becoming faulty soon enough are high.

So, factor in the repair costs and the labor costs for maintenance over the next couple of years. Is it cheaper to go for a complete rebuild? Is replacing the old equipment cheaper?

Does the equipment have a good resale value?

You can raise a substantial part of the cost of a new equipment by selling the older one. So, it is helpful to assess the current market value of your old equipment. Compare it with the sale prices of similar equipment and how long they stay listed before getting sold.

If they spend less time on the listing, it means their demand is high. In this case, you can either sell privately or via an auction. Fixing cosmetic defects and ensuring an accurate maintenance record and oil analysis reports will increase your chance of getting the best selling price possible.

How badly do you need the equipment?

If you are not bothered about waiting for so long to have your equipment back, rebuilding is a viable option. You can determine this by accessing your current need for the equipment.

Substitutable or seasonal pieces of equipment are the best candidates for rebuilding. You can easily rent a replacement to finish up the current project, provided the rental costs are relatively reasonable.

Estimating the cost of replacing and rebranding

Having answered all of the questions highlighted above, you are better positioned to decide whether to rebuild or replace your old equipment. Both options – replacement and rebranding – are valid if getting an updated technology for your business is the priority. This prioritization may be informed by the discovery that your current equipment has outdated your business’s current needs.

You still cannot take a clear position? Take a look at the economics involved in both options. Are you replacing just one component or multiple parts at once? The former translates to spending less compared to the latter.

Also, always factor in the lifespan of the equipment against the replacement costs. Which costs more – repairing or getting a new part entirely? If you choose to repair, are you getting at least 75% of the lifespan a new part will offer? If the answers to this question are affirmative, you are better off repairing than rebuilding the faulty part.

Maintenance is key when it comes to equipment. However, do not focus all your attention on that. You should also have it in mind to replace your fleet. The older the machine gets, the more maintenance it needs. A higher frequency of maintenance will translate to even more expensive repairs.

When is the best time to consider replacing or rebuilding your equipment?

The best time to commence preparations is two or three years before the actual need for either arises. The residual value at such times is usually higher, while the maintenance costs stay low. You can also do major repairs without worrying about stalling the progress of immediate projects.

Construction sites run throughout the year, both in the cold and hot seasons. It’s winter, and we, inevitably, have to deal with the cold. However, the effects of cold are not limited to humans and animals. Caterpillar construction machines, despite their sturdy build, even regularly maintained with high grade Cat spares, are also affected by cold and bad weather.

The implications are diverse, as we about to find out…

Cold affects the battery.

Have you ever had a difficult time starting your machine on a freezing morning? The engine just coughs and stop. This is a result of a battered battery, due to low winter temperatures. In this case, the power on the battery is insufficient to start the engine. Low starting power is due to the drop in the battery’s efficiency.

The battery does more than usual in the winter. There is the rain, fog, and with the sun setting earlier, headlights are more frequently used. Much battery energy also goes into defrosting the already frozen machine.

How do you know a tired battery?

There are a few symptoms. If the machine is a new model, you will get a dashboard notification about a discharged battery. Otherwise, watch out for issues with the starting of the machine. In most cases, the headlights offer lesser illumination, and the light intensity even decreases when the machine is in use.

How do you fix this?

The simplest solution is a fully charged battery. Always ensure that your battery voltage is around 24 volts (a voltmeter is required). Watch out for the levels – complete very low levels with demineralized water.

Is the alternator affected?

It is important to note that the battery continues to power the electrical part of the construction machine even when at rest. However, this responsibility falls on the alternator once the engine starts running.

What this means is that a malfunctioning alternator can contribute to a poorly performing battery. For instance, if the alternator belt may retract. Watch out for a shrill sound during operations; it indicates a worn belt.

If your alternator is not delivering sufficient energy to power the battery, check and ensure that your alternator belt is in the best condition. The last resort, however, will be to change your alternator completely.

How does a pilot start help in starting your engine?

What a pilot start does is to start the engine immediately, even in the harshest weather situations. Although it is mostly used on cars, this aerosol works on construction, agricultural, and industrial machines. It is designed to work with all engine types. To use the pilot start, spray the inlet of the air filter quickly. The resulting mixture moves into the combustion chamber through the intake valve. Thus, the air and fuel mixture become more combustible, and the engine starts without delay.

Although the pilot start performs miraculously, it is not ideal for continuous use. Consider it a one-off hack to start your engine on those very cold winter mornings.

The coolant is a potential culprit.

The antifreeze properties in construction machinery coolants ensure that the liquid stays unfrozen, at least to a certain temperature. However, if the coolant is in use for a long time, the antifreeze properties diminish.

You can determine the glycol content of any coolant by withdrawing some of it from the radiator using a density meter. The graduated float gives the minimum temperature before freezing. The ideal coolant must be resistant to a temperature of -15 or -20 degrees.

Avoid raising the liquid level with the water, especially in the summer. Also, do not use coolants without antifreeze properties, because the cold will force the coolant to freeze at temperatures higher than the ranges suggested on the can.

The volume increases when the liquid becomes frozen, leading to possible cracks in the engine head, blockage in the water pump, and eventual bursting of the radiator. For best results, do not use your coolant for more than two or three years.

Do not leave out the engine oil, oil filter, and transmission oil.

The oil in your construction machine is not immune to the adverse effects of cold. While the oil does not freeze, the thickness increases, and fluidity decreases. Thus, the battery and starter motor become more stressed. If this happens, you need to change the oil filter and the engine oil.

The transmission oil is not left out – more thickness leads to transmission issues, thus, necessitating a regular change. For construction machines running in a very cold area, it is best to tune the viscosity of the engine oils, transmission oils, and grease.

How do you read an engine oil grade?

You will most likely see something like ‘20W50,’ ‘15W50,’ or ‘0W30.’ There are meanings to every figure or letter in the line.

The first number represents the cold viscosity. A lower viscosity number means more fluidity in cold weather.

The ‘W’ represents “Winter” for all-season oils.

The next figure after ‘W’ indicates the hot viscosity, which means, the ability of the oil not to liquefy or evaporate.

The hydraulic oils and equipment greases from oil tankers and manufacturers are specifically made to withstand extreme temperatures.

Go for protected fuel.

Low temperatures affect fuel. What you get from petroleum product distributors between November and mid-March are additive fuels. So, it is important to discard condensation water from your fuel tanks and filters. You do not want anything like an ice cube impeding fuel supply.

The body of the equipment is not left out.

Harsh weather conditions also affect the equipment as a whole. When the ground is frozen, it becomes more challenging to do earthworks. It is even more severe in regions where the ground is frozen deeper down, for instance, France.

In such cases, the steel of the equipment breaks on the ground. The resulting force shakes the cabins of the construction machinery.

We tend to overlook the need for regular and effective equipment maintenance. However, the fact remains that it can make or mar the bottom line of any project, business, or organization. Yes, maintenance takes time and money. But considering how huge investment construction equipment is, we should not wait until something is wrong before we initiate the maintenance phase. In fact, construction equipment is best enjoyed when kept in optimal shape at all times.

 

Why should you maintain your equipment?

There are several benefits of regular preventative equipment maintenance. It does not only extend the equipment life but also keep repair costs at the barest minimum. Without preventative maintenance, even more money, time, and efforts go into resulting major repairs.

Below are some of the top reasons you should embrace preventative maintenance for your equipment:

Ensure the efficient running of equipment

When you get a piece of equipment newly, efficiency is always very high. This means that it works flawlessly, which is great for business. However, with time, you will need to put in efforts to maintain this optimal efficiency. This effort is called maintenance.

And why is it important? Equipment working at very high efficiency will improve your bottom line by getting things done faster. So, a decline in efficiency will ultimately adversely affect your bottom line.

Prevent the aggravation of small problems

It is common to ignore smaller or probable problems in equipment because they do not stop us from getting results. However, as harmless as this may appear, it leads to even more significant problems in the future.

To avoid this, we must immediately attend to even the slightest worrisome signs in a piece of equipment. This will ensure that such simple problems do not aggravate into serious issues.

To fix bigger problems costs more

As tempting as workarounds could be, they are disasters waiting to happen. When you postpone the inspection and repairs of problematic equipment, the problems continue to aggravate. It gets to a point where the functionality is halted, and you are forced to spend even more to fix these now complex problems.

Such complex repairs could involve the replacement of more and/or larger expensive parts. Apart from this, the downtime is longer, and this affects operations in different ways. Also, employees scheduled to work with the affected equipment would be left stranded, while you will be forced to pay them for their time.

Once it gets to this stage, you will be forced to fix the equipment as soon as possible. Your desperation means you will spend more on expedited shipping of parts and service fees for technicians. This is not cost-effective. Instead, small problems should be tackled as soon as they come up.

To get the best out of your warranty coverage

You will want to do more as per routine equipment maintenance when you buy a new or lightly used piece of equipment. This is because, most times, your coverage depends on consistent and detailed service records of the equipment.

So, it is only logical to maintain routine maintenance and keep the correct details of the same. This usually comes handy during the need for repairs, serving as evidence that your equipment is regularly maintained. Equipment manufacturers are always particular about this record because it helps them to ascertain that you followed the routine maintenance directives. Regular routine maintenance will reduce the chances of a costly repair, which is always their responsibility.

To keep your resale value high

The changing construction equipment market means there will always be newer and better equipment to upgrade to with time. In such cases, you can trade your old equipment for a newer or sell it at the best price possible. Either way, a comprehensive record of maintenance of heavy equipment will increase the chances of getting the best buck on a sale.

Such records conveniently answer the questions of reliability, proper maintenance, and record of damages that could have an effect on performance. These are what potential buyers look out for when buying a piece of used equipment. With all these boxes ticked, you can quote a very good selling price and be confident of getting a buyer.

To prevent injuries and fatalities

According to the United States Bureau of Labor, the construction industry is one of the biggest sources of job injuries in the country. Contact with objects and equipment is responsible for over 16% of the fatal construction accidents recorded annually. Regularly servicing your equipment will ensure that it works perfectly. Thus, there are lower chances of workplace injuries or deaths caused by equipment malfunctioning.

Yes, safety training can help your employees stay safe, but they do not prevent equipment failure. Cases of unplanned equipment malfunctions are bound to happen, and the best you can do is to minimize them by ensuring regular maintenance. Maintenance is a cost-effective option here, considering that workplace deaths and injuries are more tragic and expensive. Similarly, the bottom line and the company’s morale drop.

Lastly, regular equipment maintenance shows that you value the safety of your team at all times.

 

How can you extend your equipment life?

Now that we have agreed on the need for regular equipment maintenance let us move forward by discussing the right way to maximize the life of the equipment. Despite the differences in models and design, there are a couple of universal tips you can apply to extend the life of your construction equipment. Let us take a look at some of them;

Regular monitoring of equipment technology

The evolution of equipment technology means it is now easier than ever to detect inconsistencies or unusual situations. Even the smallest problems can be picked up by various sensors in the equipment. However, you can only get the best out of this when there is proper monitoring. You can ensure adequate monitoring by assigning staff to keep track of the changes and adequately capture data on equipment and performance

Alongside the in-built technology, you can add a couple of external tools. These include vibration monitoring, audio gauges, thermal imaging, and other tests and techniques that turn in useful and real-time information used in determining the condition of the equipment.

Train your technicians and operators

Human touch remains indispensable to the proper functioning of equipment. Even the most efficient technologies must be monitored and tested to get results. This is why it is important to assign a trained operator to these responsibilities. Such trained personnel can assess the problem and make fixes or notify people that can.

A trained technician or operator will report issues as soon as they occur, thus preventing them from developing into more significant problems. They also help to avoid repairs by ensuring zero misuses or overuse. Training can be in-person or exposure to the best practices, backed by an operation manual that explains how to use the equipment correctly.

If the equipment operator is untrained, chances are they will unknowingly cause expensive repairs. So, it is best to bring on well-trained technicians with clear duties and responsibilities at all times.

Ensure accountability

It does not end with training technicians and operators. You should adopt a staff structure that puts someone directly in charge of equipment maintenance. While there is no universal guide to doing this, work out something that suits your company’s size and shape. With this responsibility assigned, it is easier to track the positive effects of proactive maintenance and the dangers of not having one.

Also, the assigned staff must be properly educated and empowered, considering how crucial the role is to preventative maintenance. If it is their only job, they will most likely put their all into it.

Create and follow a maintenance schedule

Even with the difference in specifics, it is vital to create a maintenance schedule and adhere strictly to the same. This will address the regular assessment of the equipment’s condition while making necessary minor fixes like the replacement of simple parts like bolts, seals, and belts.

If you are unsure of where to start, check out the Maintenance Recommendations by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OER). This will guide you on how and when to schedule your maintenance schedule. As insignificant as this may appear, overlooking it will lead to even costlier repairs in the long run.

For example, if the bolts, seals, and belts are not replaced as and when due, it will eventually affect the larger system, thus leading to more expenses on bigger parts.

Organize and execute regular inspections

While you may want to confuse maintenance schedules with inspections, it is essential to state that they are different. Inspections are carried out by trained operators. It involves looking out for processes and reactions that indicate that the equipment is working perfectly. This may include signs of wear and tear, a drop in the levels of lubricants, and others.

Considering the nature of operations of construction equipment, i.e., the constant vibration, fiction, and high temperatures, it is only reasonable to experience wear and tear over time. This, with time, leads to systematic deterioration. The best way to avoid this is to integrate an operator’s visual inspection into the equipment use requirements.

From loose bolts to cracked seat belts and warped belts, these simple issues can be identified via a visual inspection and corrected before they deteriorate into more serious issues. Feel free to check your OEM maintenance plan for special directives on extensive inspections (if any).

Proper Lubrication

Depending on the specifics of your equipment and the manufacturer’s recommendation, there are different ways to go about the lubrication of your equipment. There are certain places where you cannot lubricate in some equipment, whereas you can lubricate these same parts in others. Likewise, there are some checks and balances you can do on your own in the course of scheduled maintenance, while you will require the expertise of an expert technician for others.

Whichever way, start by understanding your equipment and its lubrication requirements. Note that failure to get things properly lubricated increases friction, and ultimately the chances of wear and tear. You do not want to reduce your equipment life.

Test Lubricants

In addition to reducing friction and wear and tear, lubrication goes a long way in discovering problem areas. Once you know the parts of your equipment that can be accessed and lubricated, it becomes easier to identify issues.

Watch out for leaky oil seals, accumulation of grease or oils on pistons, and other signs. Lubricants can also help to identify equipment parts that are worn down. You can detect the presence of contaminants by analyzing the particles used in the oil.

When it comes to oil tests, you can either choose to DIY if you are an oil expert or bring in a knowledgeable technician to handle it. Either way, it can come under your scheduled maintenance or as a one-off check, especially in situations where you notice anomalies.

Using non-OEM Parts

Genuine OEM parts can be very expensive.  As tempting as buying original parts from other companies such as Cat parts UK can be, it comes with some risks.

• The first risk is the uncertainty in the material composition – you are not sure if the non-OEM replacement part is made from the same material as the original.
• Another risk is the compatibility of the non-OEM replacement part with other parts of the equipment, most importantly sensors and techniques.
• Also, how soon would the non-OEM replacement parts arrive, and would they void your warranty or not?
• Lastly, would they be as durable and of the same quality as the original?

These, among other questions, are what you should try to honestly answer when deciding between non-OEM replacement parts and genuine OEM parts.

Lastly, it is important to understand that for the manufacturers to have gone out of their way to create the same part of your equipment as a replacement; they are pivotal to extending your equipment life.