Your company's construction equipment takes on your toughest jobs. These machines speed up processes and improve your operations. That's why keeping your heavy equipment in top condition is crucial to your business's success.

Proper maintenance is the best way to ensure your construction machinery continues working reliably. Learn why heavy equipment maintenance is so important and discover the top five heavy equipment maintenance tips for your fleet.

Maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs and maximizing your heavy equipment's life span. There are two types of construction equipment maintenance:

• Routine maintenance: This is the regular maintenance service your heavy equipment receives on a fixed schedule. It may involve tasks like oil and filter changes, lubrication and tire pressure checks. Your operator's manual will also specify any additional procedures that should be included in routine maintenance.
• Preventive maintenance: Preventive maintenance involves identifying and correcting issues before they develop into major problems.

Ideal maintenance work includes both routine and preventive tasks to stay on top of your equipment's health. When heavy equipment runs at peak efficiency, it reduces the risk of injury to machine operators and increases job site safety. It also eliminates downtime due to failing machinery by increasing productivity and providing time and cost savings.

You can do many things to care for your heavy equipment. Here are five of the best construction equipment maintenance tips:

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance Service

Instead of waiting until there's an equipment issue to schedule service, sticking to a regular maintenance schedule will help keep you on track. You can schedule appointments at convenient times for your business, allowing you to plan ahead and reduce downtime.

2. Document Repairs and Service

When you bring in your heavy equipment for service, it's essential to document what was done. Having a clear service history log will help you effectively monitor your equipment's health and anticipate future maintenance needs. Proper documentation may also assist in securing warranty coverage.

3. Train Operators in Proper Machine Use

When operators know how to use heavy equipment properly, they are less likely to damage the machines. An operator who hasn't been sufficiently trained may unintentionally push the equipment beyond its limits or use it for a task it isn't designed to handle. Proper training ensures operators know what to do to prevent accidents and avoid damage.

4. Check the Fluids

Equipment fluids must be kept at the right levels to ensure your machine performs properly. When you neglect the fluids, your machine's components will wear more quickly, causing it to run inefficiently.

5. Clean Frequently

In addition to keeping your heavy equipment looking professional, regular cleaning is an opportunity to inspect your machinery for potential problems. Removing dirt and debris also prevents oil contamination, clogged filters and other damage.

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