5 Causes of Heavy Equipment Failure and How to Avoid Them

Equipment failures are part of the trade. Its impact can range from easily fixed with low losses to disastrous, depending on factors like repair costs, total downtime, health and safety considerations, and impact on production and service delivery.

There are multiple typical reasons for equipment failure, and knowing why your equipment is failing is your first line of defence against the devastating repercussions of unscheduled downtime. We have included a handful of the most prevalent faults that, if corrected, can help you save money on heavy construction equipment maintenance.

1. Not Reading the Owner’s Manual

The first and foremost mistake is not reading the owner’s manual. It is a general tendency to not read the manual thinking that we know it all. But that is not the case. The manual has been written by experts and contains all the information regarding your equipment. By not reading it, you are missing out on critical details such as operating procedures, maintenance schedule, troubleshooting guide etc., which can come in handy at some point or the other.

2. Failure to Perform preventive Maintenance

This is one of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to operating heavy construction equipment. Preventive maintenance is key to ensuring that your equipment runs smoothly and efficiently for a long time. By not performing regular maintenance checks and servicing, you are increasing the chances of your equipment breaking down and requiring expensive repairs. Not only will failing to perform maintenance increase the chance of breakdowns, but it also increases the risk of accidents.

3. Prefilling Fuel Filters Instead of Priming

Another common mistake is prefilling fuel filters instead of priming them. This can lead to fuel contamination and clogged filters, which will eventually cause your engine to fail. It is important to follow the instructions in your manual when it comes to priming your fuel filters, as this will ensure that they are able to do their job properly.

4. Misuse of Attachments

One of the most common ways people misuse heavy construction equipment is by using attachments that are not meant for the task at hand. This can damage the equipment and put you at risk of injury. It is important to only use attachments that are approved for use with your particular model of equipment, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attachment usage.

5. Operating Too Fast

Operating heavy construction equipment too fast is another mistake that can lead to costly repairs or even accidents. It is important to always follow the posted speed limit for the type of equipment you are operating and any other posted speed limits in the area. Speeding not only increases the chance of an accident, but it also puts unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment.

Conclusion

These are some of the most common mistakes people make when operating heavy construction equipment. By avoid these mistakes, you can help to keep your equipment in good condition and reduce the chance of expensive repairs or accidents.

Shop for used construction machinery in the UK at Construction Equipment UK. Through us, you can buy used construction equipment from the world’s leading manufacturers. Contact us today for more information.