Spring Maintenance Tips
Spring is around the corner, and for many companies, that means it’s time to prepare equipment and fleets for the spring, summer and fall seasons.
From construction equipment sitting idle all winter to seasonal fleets that need to be converted for summer work, there’s much work that goes into ensuring you’re up and running properly. On top, there’s the regular seasonal maintenance to ensure you get the most out of your investments.
Here are some spring maintenance tips from our experts:
1: Start it up
In many cases where trucks or equipment were not used much over the winter (for fleets that don’t do snow removal) getting the equipment started is important. It’s a great time to complete full vehicle inspections to make sure you’re ready for the season, be sure to always evaluate the fuel in the tanks to confirm to condensation build up over the mild & cold winter hasn’t occurred.
2: Check on Air Conditioning and Cooling Systems
Spring is the time to start looking at making certain your fleets A/C units are running. Don’t wait for the heat to arrive first, which makes for a long day in the cab.While you’re checking your fleet’s A/C, make certain the cooling system on each truck is functioning properly. Ensure the radiator, hose connections and pipes are ready for the heat of the summer. Hot weather brings even hotter engines and when the heat is on the trucks need to be adequately cooled or they will be sitting on the side of the road. It's always nicer to fix in the shop than at the side of the road!
3: Test Hydraulics
Make certain hydraulic systems and Hydro Packs are cleaned and operating properly. Install new filters and ensure there are no blockages or restrictions. When the weather is cold the Hydro Pack doesn’t really need to work efficiently, but when the ambient temperature rises so does the hydraulic oil temperatures.
4: Convert your seasonal fleet
Right after the spring road restriction end means it's time to get to work for many construction companies. That can involve converting units from snow removal to their summer jobs (typically dump trucks), removing the salter bodies and plows and getting them dirt hauling ready.Getting all the equipment floats roadworthy and tip-top shape and ready for a full summer of business!
5: Ensure you’re fuel ready
How and where are you fuelling your fleet this spring, summer and fall? Ensure you’ve got a reliable fuel supplier that will keep you going, no matter what. Don’t let seasonal and regional supply shortages make you scramble for a new supplier.
Have a safe summer on the roads and stay tuned for more equipment maintenance tips.