Heavy Equipment Repair

Heavy equipment is the heart of the construction industry, so it’s critical to keep all machinery in tip-top shape for building projects, moving material, or demolishing structures. Preventative maintenance plans are put in place so all equipment will run properly from the beginning of a project to the end. This will ensure the safety of all personnel and maintain productivity levels.

With preventive maintenance programs, your heavy machinery will run efficiently and relieve the threat of downtime. Divide the plan into various daily tasks, such as general maintenance, fluid analysis, and maintenance inspections.

Heavy Equipment Maintenance: Steps and What to Consider

1. Daily Pre-Operation Checks

Before working with your equipment, machines should be inspected for safety and general condition. When safety is made a priority before the project even starts, there is a lower risk for injury or accident.

Daily pre-operation checks should include the following:

• Parking – Before starting any machinery, make sure there is a safe place to park the equipment.

• Hazards – Inspect the machinery for any signs of damage.

• Damage/Loose/Worn Parts – Check for any loose nuts, bolts, or other parts.

• Leaks – Be sure to check the heavy equipment for any leaking parts.

• Fluid Analysis – Fluid levels should be checked before starting your engine – this includes engine oil, power steering fluids, and even windshield washer fluids.

• Undercarriage – Before you start the machinery, check the undercarriage for any wear and tear on the bogies, rollers, track tension, etc.

• Tire Condition – Check the tire size for level, proper air pressure, tread, and wear.

• Valve Stems – Take the time to secure all the screws.

• Steering – Assess to see if the handling is right.

• Belts – Check the fan belts for any signs of fraying, splits, or cracks before starting the operation.

• Hoses – Don’t start the machinery if you spot any loose hoses or other signs of damage.

• Suspension System – Get a feel of the machinery’s performance and be on the lookout for unusual movement, vibration, or noises.

• Battery – Check the batteries to ensure they are not low – replace if necessary.

2. Warm-Up Checks

Once you start the machinery, let it run for five to ten minutes before checking the equipment for the following:

● Air Filter System
● Irregular Sounds
● Dashboard Gauges
● Lights
● Hydraulic System
● Fluid Levels
● Brakes

3. Daily Operating Checks

At the end of the workday (or between shifts), conduct one last operating check by doing the following:

● Refill the fuel tank
● Allow the engine to sit idle for five minutes before turning it off
● Ensure to park the vehicle in a safe spot
● If the washing station is free, clean the vehicle

Keep in mind that the frequency services are determined by hours of operation (every 250 to 500, 1,000 to 1,200, and 4,800 to 5,000 hours), operation conditions, and the number of operators on the job.

The preventive maintenance plan should include high-level and low-level tasks with time frames set for each.

The Bottom Line: The Importance of Maintaining and Regularly Checking Your Heavy Equipment

Preventive maintenance plans should be part of your business’s safety program. As an owner, you are responsible for ensuring all heavy machinery and equipment are in good condition and safe to use.

The main goal of heavy equipment repair is to minimize the risk of hazards to personnel and equipment. Without proper preventative maintenance, you can be held accountable for accidents.

Are You Looking for Heavy Equipment for Sale?

GT Mid Atlantic knows exactly what you need when it comes to construction equipment. Besides being the premier multi-OEM new, used, and heavy equipment dealers in Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey and Philadelphia, we also provide maintenance and repair services to help maximize your projects.

For all your construction equipment needs—rentals, purchases, or financing—we can offer you a wide range of tailor-made solutions with the best machines and attachments for the job. Learn more about how we can help you today!