Get the most from your machines by following our tips and best practices.
When using heavy machinery, certain practices can help reduce overall fuel consumption and costs. The following tips may help you save hundreds of dollars each year. Inspect air filters regularly Inspect your air filters every 50 hours to ensure maximum operating performance. If the pleats of your filter are clogged with dirt, it is time …
It is especially important to monitor fluid levels in your equipment during the summer months when temperatures are high. The summer heat will cause the engine to warm at a faster rate. As the engine warms, the machine’s fluids will suffer vaporization loss, eventually leading to a lower fluid level. Perform daily checks on the …
Properly managing equipment is crucial to maintain your return on investment. A general guideline to follow is replace equipment once maintenances costs exceed 30% of the machine’s resale value. Below are strategies to help keep your fleet productive for as long as possible. Proactive maintenance Enroll equipment into preventive maintenance contracts to ensure routine maintenance …
About Filters Changing filters regularly is essential for your equipment to perform its best. Recommended intervals for filter changes vary between 250 and 500 hours. It can be tempting to select a bargain filter brand, but an inferior filter can make a big difference in the long term health of your equipment. Saving a few …
Earthmoving projects pose a variety of dangers to excavator operators and anyone else on the jobsite. Follow our tips below to ensure a safe project. Preliminary Checkpoints Check fuel levels It sounds simple, but make sure the machine has enough fuel before putting it to work. Your excavator should be able to operate at all …
A large number of fatal accidents occur while loading and unloading heavy equipment from a trailer. For this reason, workers must follow these safety tips. Drivers Must Be Well Rested Operators that transport equipment must be well rested and should take occasional breaks. Breaks are especially important on hot days. To avoid getting too hot, …
Operator Tips When to refill the tank How to fill the tank About DEF CompositionDiesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is non-toxic and is made up of purified water and urea. It is stable and colorless. DEF is similar to baking soda in its alkalinity (pH). It is not a fuel but is used to reduce the …
Diesel exhaust fluid freezes at 12℉. Frozen DEF can’t dose the engine properly, which in turn causes engines to derate. It’s important to keep an eye on the temperature when you’re operating equipment using DEF during the colder months. Here are some tips to make it easier to maintain your equipment in the winter. Warm …
Underinflated tires are a drain on your business. Low tire pressure increases fuel usage and wear. Follow these best practices to get optimal performance from your equipment. Check tire pressure regularly You can’t check tire pressure with a visual inspection. Many tires will look properly inflated even if they’re not, which is why it’s important …
Operating Tips Avoid back draggingBack dragging reduces cutting edge life by causing it to break before it wears down. Minimize excessive down pressureBuckets last longer if the operator minimizes the amount of pressure applied when the bucket is engaged with the ground. Avoid using blades in wet conditionsBlades wear faster in wet conditions. Equipment Tips …