The Most Common Construction Equipment Upkeep

A construction business invests much of its money in finding high-end construction equipment. Performing maintenance is necessary to protect this investment from damage and ensure the longevity of the machine or tool. Keep reading for the most common construction equipment upkeep to keep your gear in top condition and running efficiently.

Batteries, Brakes, Transmissions, Engines, and More

For construction equipment you drive, such as a bulldozer, your maintenance schedule will look much the same as it would to maintain a street vehicle. You must double-check, repair, or replace this equipment’s batteries, brakes, transmissions, engines, and more. This will ensure the machine is functioning correctly and safe to operate on the work site.

Fluid Levels and Lubrication

Without hydraulic fluid, heavy machinery in construction could not run smoothly. Topping off these fluid levels at the end of each day helps the transfer of heat throughout the machine. Engine oil and transmission fluid are also necessary for the machine to function. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the lubricants because it helps with the machine’s moving parts too.

Regular Washing and Cleansing

The point of washing your construction equipment might seem moot when the machines get dirty and caked with mud every day. However, this is one of the most important maintenance upkeep tasks because it reduces the strain on moving parts. A clean tool or machine also allows you to notice defects and damage quicker, not to mention that clean equipment will last much longer. In fact, never cleaning the tool is one of the causes of excessive wear on rock augers and other tools and machinery.

Inspect for Misalignments

The landscape on a construction site can change drastically from day to day. Rough terrain can cause misalignments in your heavy machinery. Continuing to use the machine when it’s misaligned will only cause more damage to the equipment. You should inspect the machines you use daily at the end of each shift to ensure everything is in working order for the next day.

Electrical Wiring

Electrical work and wiring in construction equipment help you turn on and use the machinery. When this electrical work experiences wear and tear, it can put your equipment out of commission. Be mindful of exposing these components to the elements, and take preventative measures to cover equipment if it’s raining, snowing, and more. Remember to inspect these components regularly to catch damage as quickly as possible.

In general, the most common construction equipment upkeep looks a lot like servicing your vehicle. Consult with the machine’s operator’s manual to ensure you follow the correct preventative and regular maintenance. Ensure you’re performing maintenance every day, or damage and wear and tear will occur more frequently to your equipment.