Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/756888
AGGREGATES MANAGER / December 2016 29 suspected. Used fi lters are another, sometimes overlooked source of information re- garding machine health. For the expe- rienced technician, cutting open fi lters and inspecting them at the time of their replacement can provide valuable indi- cators about the health of major com- ponents. Inspecting the fi lter provides preliminary insight while you're waiting to receive the more comprehensive oil analysis results. Sometimes, fi lter inspec- tion can provide advanced warning to prevent a pending failure from generating more expensive secondary damage. Should you overhaul your haul truck? Engine and transmission overhauls can be a cost effective way to extend the life of your truck, and a viable alternative to purchasing a new machine. Getting an overhaul kit from your manufacturer makes it much easier to identify which parts are required, and you can often get them at a discounted price versus purchase of individual parts. Keep in mind that oil sampling can be a key tool in gauging when a major component is a good candidate for an overhaul. Best laid plans The goal of ongoing planned mainte- nance is to prevent emergencies, espe- cially since overtime labor and expedited freight for emergency parts can drive up costs. But, sometimes even the best-laid plans can fail. It's smart to have a contingency plan for unscheduled down time. Take an "in- ventory" of the resources (technicians and parts) available. Have a discussion with your dealer and identify the most com- monly purchased parts for the machine model, as well as the lead-time and cost of major components. To minimize critical down time, know ahead of time where you can get a tech- nician's services after hours or on short notice. If you have a strong relationship with a committed dealer, you already know this information. Finally, in case of extended down time, machine rental might be necessary. Establish a rental relationship and dis- cuss terms and availability of rental ma- chines ahead of time. Doing so protects you from spur-of-the-moment needs when your equipment is down and pro- duction requirements are in jeopardy. When periodic maintenance and daily checks are performed properly, payloads are properly sized, and your haul roads are well maintained, your truck fl eet should keep your site productive and running. AM Rob McMahon is the product marketing manager, trucks, for Komatsu America Corp. Experience Knowledge Service Proud Distributor of Aggregate Material Handling Systems 323 Energy Way • Bridgeport, TX 800.315.0871 www.crispindustries.com We've got it. Rockability. Rock Solid Solutions Built on Experience Since 1977… March 7-11, 2017 Las Vegas, Nevada Booth #C31095 VISIT US AT