Category: Heavy Equipment Maintenance

Troubleshooting Common Heavy Equipment Maintenance Issues

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Crawler,excavator,machine,unloading,sand,or,soil,at,construction,areaTroubleshooting Common Heavy Equipment Maintenance Issues

As an owner or operator of heavy equipment, it is essential to keep your machinery performing at optimal levels all the time. Proper preventive maintenance and servicing can help extend the life of your equipment, reduce downtime, and ensure safety in any jobsite. However, even with good preventive maintenance, heavy equipment can experience breakdowns and malfunctions that can potentially halt construction projects. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common heavy equipment maintenance issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Problem #1: Engine Starting Difficulties

If your heavy equipment engine is slow to start, the first thing you should check is the battery. Ensure the battery terminals are clean, tight and free of corrosion. If this doesn’t fix the problem, the starter motor or solenoid might be faulty or even worn-out spark plugs needs replacement. Alternatively, You can also check the fuel system filters, air filters, and fuel injectors, or anything that affects the fuel system.

Problem #2: Overheating

Overheating can be caused by different factors, including malfunctioning fans and water pumps or clogs in the radiator. Ensure your machine has enough coolant and the coolant is the proper mixture. Examine the radiator periodically for potential obstructions like dirt, bent fins and debris. Additionally, you can check the water pump and engine thermostat to ensure they are functioning correctly. Motors that run hot for prolonged periods will eventually break down.

Problem #3: Hydraulic Failures

Hydraulic issues can be due to low fluid levels, fluid contamination, damaged hydraulic hoses, broken cylinders, worn out seals, or a failed pump. Ensure hydraulic fluid levels are accurate at all times and inspect hydraulic hoses regularly for leaks or damage. In addition, have a professional technician examine the entire hydraulic system at least once annually to catch any signs of wear and tear before they escalate.

Problem #4: Electrical Shorts

If your heavy equipment keeps blowing fuses or trips breakers frequently, it might have an electrical short circuit. Shorts result from an electric current flowing through an unintended path, leading to an overload. Check all the electrical connectors in the system to ensure they are fitting correctly and secure. Conducting regular inspections on the wiring harnesses can also prevent short circuits.

Problem #5: Faulty Brakes

Brakes are crucial safety features in any heavy equipment, and it’s important to ensure they are never taken for granted. If the brakes fail to engage when commanded or fail to keep the heavy equipment stationary when parked, the braking system needs to be looked at immediately. Check to make sure the braking system is working correctly, the brake fluid levels are right, and the brake lines aren’t damaged.

Problem #6: Worn Out Tires

Heavy equipment is highly dependent on good quality tires, and they play a crucial role in ensuring safety and productivity. Inspect tires regularly for any cracks, tears or sidewall damage. Check the tire pressure often to make sure it falls within proper levels. You can also have your heavy equipment tires rotated periodically to ensure even distribution of wear or replace heavily worn out tires with new ones.

Problem #7: Failing Transmission

Your heavy equipment transmission can be a costly component to repair if it breaks down. Regular preventive maintenance can prevent transmission problems, such as checking the fluid levels and the filter every 500 hours of operation. Common transmission problems include fluid leaks or slipping gears. Monitoring oil levels and fluid conditions in the transmissions and differentials can prevent overheating and failure.

Problem #8: Worn Out Filters

Filters, such as fuel filters, air filters and oil filters are essential components of any heavy equipment system. Dirty, worn out and clogged filters can cause an engine to overheat, hurt fuel and oil economy as well as impact engine performance. Ensure the filters are serviced as suggested by the equipment manufacturer and changed regularly to keep the engine running efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Regular maintenance and servicing of your heavy equipment can prevent equipment downtime, increase productivity, and reduce costs in the long run. Each piece of machinery has different technical concerns, and as an operator, it is essential to identify and troubleshoot these issues early enough to prevent any unexpected breakdowns. Keep in mind that safety and performance should always be the top priority in any heavy machinery jobsite, and a preventive maintenance plan can help ensure both.

Need some help with your heavy equipment? Let us help! Contact our team of heavy equipment specialists here at Bailey Heavy Equipment Repair, Inc. today to learn more about what we can do for you!

Post-Harvest Equipment Benefits

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Looking for ways to increase your farm productivity? Post harvest equipment can have a huge impact on your farm output and efficiency. This quick guide will give you some ideas of post harvest equipment you should consider investing in.

What Is Post Harvest Equipment?

There are several types of equipment that are needed on a productive farm. These include both pre-harvest and post-harvest equipment. Pre-harvest equipment is pretty self-explanatory, but what about post-harvest?

Post-harvest equipment is designed to help farmers take their crap residues and create something valuable. This can greatly increase yearly profits, and it benefits the environment by cutting down on waste.  It can also increase profits by increasing the marketability of your crops that would otherwise be lost post-harvest.

Post-harvest technology can save you time and money. Many farmers rely on this type of equipment to keep their profits high and reduce waste.

Do I Need Post-Harvest Equipment?

Post harvest equipment is not a requirement for productivity, but it can greatly enhance productivity by streamlining the post-harvest process. Post harvest technology helps farmers be able to easily make good use of every bit of their crop, as well as to efficiently prepare their crop for sale.

Post Harvest Equipment Post Harvest Machinery To Consider

Multicrop Post Harvest – One of the best products in this category is the Landforce Multi-Crop complete with 35 HP and Above implement power.

Wheat Post Harvest – If you are looking for wheat post harvest products, check out the Landforce Harambha Thresher. This product comes equipped with best-in-class features as well as 35 HP Min implement power.

Maize Post Harvest – The Dasmesh 423 Maize Thresher comes with 35-55 HP implement power which produces a smooth harvest experience.

Paddy Post Harvest – For those working in paddy farmer environments, the Landforce Paddy Thresher brings you 35-55 HP implement power.

Post Harvest Handling Equipment

You may also want to consider post harvest handling equipment options as well. Let’s look at a few of these.

Sponge dryers – Sponge dryers are essential to remove surface water so that crops can be properly processed. This machinery includes wipe rollers as well as crush rollers.

Wax coaters – This is an essential piece of machinery if you are dealing with organic fruit and veggies. Wax application will enhance the crop’s appearance and longevity.

Polishing and Brushing Machines – Preparing crops for shipment is a crucial part of the farming process. The appearance of the crop is important. Polishing and brushing machines can help to accomplish this.

 

Implementing Preventative Maintenance

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A well-implemented preventative maintenance system can help your business by reducing waste and increasing overall productivity. The longer you can keep your equipment working, the more money you save. In addition, regular preventative upkeep can prevent sudden breakdowns and detect issues before they become a major concern. However, implementing maintenance systems can be challenging for many companies without proper planning. Taking the right steps makes the process much simpler and easier to design.

Steps To Implement a Preventative Maintenance System

Final Thoughts

Preventative maintenance is a superior method for managing your equipment repair needs. The alternative of waiting for equipment to break down before repair can cause larger issues such as lost work and expensive repairs. Preventative maintenance is well worth the time and investment as it keeps your company’s production flow working and can reduce equipment repair and replacement costs.

How To Extend the Lifespan of Your Heavy Equipment With Proper Maintenance

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Extending the lifespan of your construction equipment is a fundamental aspect that you should not ignore. You must be proactive and incorporate the necessary equipment maintenance tips to ensure your equipment is serving your needs. Here are some of the maintenance tips to extend equipment life and ROI.

1. Don’t Overwork Your Equipment

It’s common for construction workers to push their equipment to the limit. Even when your heavy equipment is new, overworking will reduce lifespan. Avoid putting too much strain on your construction equipment by giving it enough time to rest. According to experts, you should let your equipment idle for about five minutes after every hour of use. This will help to cool down the engine and other essential parts, preventing them from overheating. Additionally, be careful not to overload your equipment as this will damage some parts.

2. Inspect Your Equipment Regularly

A significant way to prolong your equipment’s lifespan is by regular maintenance checks. Inspecting your equipment helps identify any potential problems before they escalate. Be sure to check the engine oil, air filter, and hydraulic fluid levels, as well as the condition of the tires. It’s also essential to inspect the blades or to cut tools to ensure they’re sharp and in good condition. If you notice any problems with your equipment, be sure to have them fixed as soon as possible.

2. Choose the Right Fuel

It’s essential to use the correct type of fuel for your construction equipment. Using the wrong fuel type can damage your equipment and reduce its lifespan. Consult your equipment’s manual to find out what fuel is best. Also, ensure you’re using clean fuel by regularly cleaning your equipment’s fuel tank. Consider fueling your equipment with a fuel additive, as this can help to prolong its lifespan.

3. Store Your Equipment Properly

When not in use, be sure to store your construction equipment properly. If possible, store your equipment in a covered area to protect it from the elements. Ensure your equipment is stored on a level surface to prevent it from tipping. You can easily damage your equipment by storing it improperly, so take the necessary precautions. A simple construction equipment storage solution is a must for every business.

4. Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

When it comes to maintenance, it’s essential to follow the guidelines set out by the manufacturer. Each type of construction equipment is different, so you must consult the manual for specific maintenance tips. Ignoring the manufacturer’s suggestions can void your warranty and cause long-term damage to your equipment.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can help prolong your construction equipment’s lifespan. However, it’s important to note that regular maintenance checks by a professional are still essential to keeping your equipment in good condition. Contact Bailey Heavy Equipment Repair, Inc. for all your construction equipment maintenance needs. Our team of experts will ensure your equipment is running smoothly and efficiently.

5 Maintenance Tips For Heavy Machinery

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A heavy equipment maintenance routine is something that you should consider if you want your equipment to provide the necessary services. The success of such equipment is highly dependent on all the maintenance approaches you will incorporate into your plant. Here is a heavy equipment maintenance checklist you need to observe.

1. Use the Right Tools

Usually, most people will purchase the wrong tools for their equipment. As such, this might interfere with the outcome that you are looking to achieve. Always buy the best and latest tools in the market to use in your maintenance procedure. The good thing is that there are many stores which stock such products. With the help of an expert, you can be sure of getting the most appropriate tools for your needs.

2. Create a Maintenance Schedule

One of the best ways to ensure that your equipment is always in good shape is by creating a maintenance schedule. This way, you will never forget some critical areas requiring regular checkups. Remember, if you neglect some of the areas in your equipment, it might cost you a lot of money in the long run.

3. Check the Equipment Regularly

It is advisable to check your equipment regularly, even when it is not in use. This way, you can identify some issues that might develop without your knowledge. Such problems will usually only be noticed when it’s too late. By regularly checking your equipment, you can avoid costly repairs.

4. Use the Right Products

Many products are meant for heavy equipment maintenance. However, some of them might not be ideal for your needs. As such, you should take your time to research the best products to use before making your purchase. With the right products, you can be sure of extending the lifespan of your equipment. This will be an effective strategy for saving money in the long run. Consider analyzing the best brands in the market before making your purchase.

5. Hire a Professional

As much as you might be tempted to handle the maintenance procedure independently, hiring a professional is always advisable. This way, you will be sure of getting the best results within a short period. A professional knows all the areas that need to be checked and will also advise you on taking care of your equipment. Many service providers specialize in such services. An experienced technician will also be able to identify some of the issues that might develop without your knowledge.

Conclusion

By following the above tips, you can ensure an effective heavy equipment maintenance routine. Always remember that your goal should be to get the best value for your money. With proper maintenance, you can be sure of using your equipment for a long time. Contact Bailey Heavy Equipment Repair, Inc. today for all your heavy equipment maintenance needs. We offer a wide range of services to keep your equipment running smoothly and efficiently.