By Jonathan Gardner, Product Manager, Construction Equipment, Kubota Canada
Compact equipment has gained popularity in recent years due to its multi-functionality, ease of maintenance and ability to get almost any job done. However, even seasoned operators should not take these versatile and powerful machines for granted.
When planning projects, it’s important that business owners and equipment operators take the necessary steps to ensure they’re getting the most out of their compact equipment and setting themselves up for a successful and profitable season.
Identify your compact equipment needs
You’re likely starting to get a better idea of the work that awaits you this spring and summer as the ground begins to thaw and snow begins to melt. Whether your projects involve digging, grading, lifting or hauling, make sure you have the machinery you need to get the job done right.
Compact equipment like mini excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders and wheel loaders are ideal for contractors and operators who have a wide array of project types on tap. With various attachments available, compact equipment can help you quickly transition between jobs, minimizing the need for heavy machinery and specialized machines, while maximizing the time at hand.
Assess your attachments
One positive aspect of running compact equipment is it’s compatible with a wide array of hydraulic attachments for various jobsite tasks. Take a moment to ensure your augers, buckets and trenchers have the necessary attachments to handle the scale of projects you’re undertaking this year. Having everything you need in good working order will save you valuable time in the long run.
Check the hydraulic system, inspect the undercarriage and thoroughly assess your machine. Make sure everything is in working order and has not experienced any damage over the course of winter storage.
Read the operator’s manual
If there was one step to skip, reading the operator’s manual is often it, especially among veteran operators who have run the same piece of equipment for years. However, it isn’t just new machine owners who should re-read the manual each year. Refreshing oneself on the capabilities of your equipment today will help save valuable time on the job site, especially if any in-field adjustments are required.
When you’re in the middle of a project that requires maximum productivity to hit your deadlines, you’ll be glad to have such intimate knowledge of your machinery.
Hit the ground running
There’s a good chance some of your equipment has been in storage all winter. Get it ready for the busy season ahead by making sure your machine is in good working condition.
Essential inspections should include the tread and pressure of your tires; adding fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals; changing the oil; inspecting the machine’s belts for wear; examining hoses, bushings, chains and sprockets; and properly greasing your machine.
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When doing pre-season maintenance, it’s always smart to check equipment warranties. This ensures you’re maximizing your value and getting any potential issues fixed before beginning operations. While machinery in need of repair should be brought in for maintenance whether it’s under warranty or not, knowing your equipment’s warranty lifecycle will help you prioritize urgent repair and routine maintenance needs.
Practice proactive maintenance
Once your equipment is ready for the season, take it for a test-run to avoid any nasty surprises when you arrive at your first job site. Continue proactive maintenance as you ramp up in the spring and operate through the summer and well into the fall. Ensure your equipment remains clean from excess material and debris, especially the various attachments you are running and the undercarriage area of excavators and loaders and tires and tracks.
Regular cleaning helps to extend the performance and lifespan of your machinery, in addition to promoting jobsite safety. It is also important to adhere to regular maintenance checkpoints while your equipment is in operation, by changing fluids and filters regularly, inspecting your machinery daily and properly storing it after each use.
No matter what projects lie ahead, understanding the capabilities of your compact equipment and treating it with the proper care and respect will help maximize productivity and ultimately, increase your bottom line.
