Capital Equipment News May 2022

Keep open lines of communication On the court, communication is key to making plays and racking up points. But it’s also important in the maintenance bay. Building a solid maintenance foundation relies on good communication and detailed record keeping. Every operation is differ ent, so design a maintenance programme and schedule that fits your specific needs. For example, if your trailers need to be on the road all the time, you’ll want to ensure operators run through a thorough pre- and post-trip inspection to catch signs of wear or damage quickly, so you don’t risk unscheduled downtime. Keeping detailed records of these inspections and other preventative maintenance, including assessments of wearable items and structural observations, will optimise efficiency and keep small issues from becoming larger headaches down the road. Putting proper procedures in place will keep appropriate personnel accountable for performing the communication open between operators, technicians and management to ensure everyone is running the same play when it comes to maintenance requirements. Additionally, make sure anyone preforming maintenance is properly trained. Create a routine that becomes second nature While quality equipment and good commu nication will get an operation off to a good start, it’s not enough to carry you over the goal line. For that, your team needs to put in the practice. Work with managers, operators and technicians to create maintenance rou tines that work for your operation. Pre-trip inspections are a great place to start. Here are a few steps you should consider incorpo rating for more efficient maintenance: • Before every trip, thoroughly check the trailer body and system for signs of damage or wear. This includes brakes, tyres, suspension, electrical and cylinders, as well as the deck, gooseneck and other components. • Ensure that tyres are properly inflated to the right psi. Underinflated tyres are one of the biggest culprits of premature ware, so keeping them properly inflated will increase longevity and boost fuel efficiency. Some top-tier manufacturers offer automatic tire inflation systems that make this important task easier for more efficient maintenance and increased peace of mind. • Confirm hydraulic hoses are free from cracks or damage. If you’re operating a detachable or rear-load model, be sure hydraulic pressure is correct even on self maintenance when needed. Be sure to keep the lines of

In addition to inspecting the trailer body and systems for damage, operators should double check load securements.

QUICK TAKE

The rewards that come with a well-honed trailer maintenance routine make it a worthwhile goal of any operation

Investing in equipment that minimises upkeep requirements from the outset makes it easier to establish a maintenance routine

A technician won’t have as much trouble keeping up with tasks like replacing bushings and axle seats if these wearables are easy to access

Building a solid maintenance foundation relies on good communication and detailed record keeping

Creating a maintenance routine that becomes second nature to your team will increase efficiency and provide the best productivity and long-term ROI for your equipment

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