Heavy Equipment Repair

Heavy equipment is the heart of the construction industry, so keeping all machinery in tip-top shape for building projects, moving materials or demolishing structures is critical. Preventative maintenance plans ensure all equipment will run properly from the beginning of a project to the end. These procedures will improve 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 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, inspect machines for safety and general condition. When safety is a priority before the project even starts, there is a lower risk of injury or accident.

Daily pre-operation checks should include the following:

• Parking: Before starting any machinery, ensure a safe place to park the equipment.
• Hazards: Inspect the machinery for any signs of damage.
• Damaged/loose/worn parts: Check for any loose nuts, bolts or other components.
• Leaks: Be sure to check the heavy equipment for any leaking parts.
• Fluid analysis: Fluid levels should be checked before starting your engine, including engine oil, power steering fluids and 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 correct.
• 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 them if necessary.

2. Warm-Up Checks

Once you start the machinery, let it run for five to 10 minutes before checking the equipment for the following:

• Air filter system
• Irregular sounds
• Dashboard gauges
• Lights
• Hydraulic system
• Fluid levels
• Brakes

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 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 Service?

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

For all your construction equipment needs — maintenance, repairs, or emergency service — we can offer you a wide range of tailor-made solutions with expertly trained technicians on every job. Learn more about how we can help you today.