Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/860257
August 2017 | EquipmentWorld.com 48 maintenance | by Tom Jackson | TJackson@randallreilly.com maintenance | continued to take better care of that equip- ment and more closely monitor the condition of their machines when they return to the joysticks. Elements of a program The key to tapping into this hidden potential in your workforce is to set up a program. Here is a 10-point list of what you need to develop a good proxy tech program: 1. Define the tasks, boundaries and limits of what your proxy techs should do. 2. Assess the skills and knowledge needed to accomplish these tasks. 3. Develop a process to train proxy techs. 4. Set up a selection and screening process. 5. List the tools and resources needed. 6. Detail the parts they need, some- thing like an "uptime kit." 7. Develop evaluation protocols. 8. Create a system to record the work being done by proxy techs. 9. Develop Key Performance Indicators to prove value with beginning baselines. 10. Develop compensation and reward standards. Possible tasks Each company, its equipment and needs are unique, so you'll want to spend time on the first program element – defining what your proxy techs do – and look hard for opportunities. Here are some examples of simple tasks common to most earthmoving equipment, paving and truck maintenance facilities: • Check and replace fuses • Replace lightbulbs and beacon lights • Change two-wire switches • Replace batteries • Check hydraulic quick connects, O-rings and hoses • Drain fuel-water separator and change filters • Install or tighten loose bolts and pins • Tighten or replace fasteners • Replace air filters • Inspect and replace seat belts if needed • Inspect and replace rear view mirrors if needed • Check engine oil levels • Draw and process oil samples • Inspect and top off coolant if necessary • Check tire pressure • Inspect tires for wear or damage • Check track tension and wear on undercarriages • Grease zerks • Safety check to ensure horn, backup alarm and lights work. With a more advanced training program and assistance from an experienced mechanic, proxy techs could also take on more complicated tasks, such as: • Replace blades, buckets or cutting edges on equipment. Replace brooms on sweeping equipment. • Adjust tension on dozer, compact track loader and excavator tracks. • On pavers, inspect and adjust or replace, if necessary, front hopper rubber, augers, end gate wear plates and flight chains. • On material transport vehicles and road wideners, inspect, adjust or replace front hopper rubber, bearings and chains. • On milling machines, inspect, ad- just or replace mold board wear blade, drum wear plates, track pads, conveyor belts or assist with drum swaps. • On rollers, inspect, adjust or replace scrappers, cocoa mats, spray nozzles, filters. • On tack trucks, inspect, adjust or replace spray bars, nozzles and mud flaps. Testing and training requirements You'll need to test your proxy techs before you select them for the work. Some people are all thumbs, and some have a knack for me- chanic work. To start your selection process, look for candidates who have shown a desire or interest in work- ing on equipment. Employees who have some background, whether it's tinkering with trucks, motorcycles or farm equipment, are usually good candidates. You should also select candidates who have been with the company at least six months. The Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test is a good resource to use in the selection process. The BMCT can help identify candidates with good spatial perception and mechanical reasoning, as well as whether they have an aptitude for learning mechanical processes and tasks. Candidates can take the test online for $20. For more information go to: http://bit.ly/ZUNEVR6 Once candidates have been identified, your company fleet manager or shop foreman should develop the curriculum and conduct the proxy tech training. A two-day program should be enough to get the ball rolling. If your senior shop people aren't comfortable training others, suggest they take a "train-the- trainer" course so they know how to communicate effectively. Google "train-the-trainer" and you'll find plenty of resources for this. Another option is calling on vendors or outsiders like a community college or tech school to provide the training. Training should cover the basics of electrical systems (both AC and DC), understanding of fasteners, hydraulics, power train systems and lubrication principles. When the opportunity arises, outside training from OEMs can be valuable. These offerings are limited but essential for a proxy tech to understand basic mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems. Supplement your classroom training with on-the-job demonstrations, and assign each