Scheduling is the art of planning your activities so that you can achieve your goals and priorities in the time you have available. When it’s done effectively, it helps you:Understand what you can realistically achieve with your time.Make sure you have enough time for essential tasks.Add contingency time for “the unexpected.”Avoid taking on more than you can handle.Work steadily toward your personal and career goals.Have enough time for family and friends, exercise and hobbies.Achieve a good work-li

Source: Effective Scheduling – Time Management Training From MindTools.com

1. Stay on top of large machinery operator trainingMany types of large machinery have multiple operators. One of the ongoing inspections on any checklist should be overseeing the correct operation of the equipment.Large machinery should be inspected as soon as it is purchased. Operator training is usually done at that point, but training needs to be kept up. Employees come and go, skills become rusty and poor operation leads to breakdowns.Operator manuals can be revised for the specific work situation. They can be rewritten in simpler language. A short manual can be provided to each operator for easy reference. And, if you operate in a paperless environment, you can rest assured operators use the most current version of each manual.One other note is to identify best practices, which can then be applied to other facilities or geographic locations. The knowledge you learn about how to maintain your equipment can become quite valuable – be sure to best leverage this important knowledge and use it at every applicable location.

Source: 5 Tips on Machinery Maintenance | MT Blog

2. Add and test lubricants frequentlyLubricants reduce friction around any moving part. A schedule of good lubrication maintenance extends the life of large machinery equipment and parts.Lubrication is one of the first and most important of maintenance checks. Look for signs of excess oil or grease build-up on pistons. Check for leaks around oil seals.Be sure to use the right lubricant. There are specific kinds of oil and grease for every component. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.Getting the lubricants checked is a good way to diagnose problems with large machinery. Experts analyze particles in the used oil. The makeup of any contaminants will indicate which part may be suffering from wear or breakdown.

Source: 5 Tips on Machinery Maintenance | MT Blog

Vibration, shock, high temperatures, friction and age all contribute to the breakdown of parts in heavy machinery.Vibration can come from gears and belts that are out of alignmentShock can come from accidents and from poor operator techniqueHigh temperatures can come from extended use, friction, poor lubrication and worn parts, among other reasonsAge affects many key components. Over time, belts will warp. Seals will dry and crack. Bolts will loosen and stretch out of shape. Age is a factor to monitor in equipment.Should you discover wear and tear on any moving parts within your heavy equipment, be sure to quickly perform the necessary replacement of any worn parts.

Source: 5 Tips on Machinery Maintenance | MT Blog

4. Keep large machinery clean, and maintain a clean environmentThere are many seals and filters in place on heavy machinery to keep working parts clean and free of contamination. Seals should be inspected regularly to make sure they’re in good condition. Filters should be inspected and changed regularly. Breathers should be kept clean to avoid creating a vacuum in the cab which will suck contaminants into the cab. The electronics in the cab are susceptible to breakdown if contaminated. This impacts the clutch, for example.Large machinery should be stored in a shed or other building if at all possible. Exposure to wind and weather can lead to rust and rot. The machinery should be run periodically if it is not in use.

Source: 5 Tips on Machinery Maintenance | MT Blog

Tip 2 – Do your research Once you’ve decided what type of equipment you need for your company, start your research. This should include dealers, brands and equipment models. Also include the different components of each model and brand so you can easily compare between models and brands.

Source: 5 quick tips to buying new or used construction equipment

Tip 3 – Find the right dealerFinding a reputable dealer is important and will also involve a bit of investigating. Make sure you check out multiple dealers before deciding where you’re buying equipment from. Don’t hesitate to ask questions from the dealers either. A reputable and trusted dealer can and will answer any question you shoot their way. It’s also a good idea to ask what after-purchase services they offer.

Source: 5 quick tips to buying new or used construction equipment

Tip 4 – Ask for quotationsWhen you visit or call a dealer or manufacturer, ask for a quotation. They’re more than happy to provide quotes to their customers. These quotations will help you determine how much a piece of equipment will cost you overall. Asking quotations from different dealers will help you compare prices and offers, which will also help you choose which dealer to buy equipment from.

Source: 5 quick tips to buying new or used construction equipment

Tip 5 – Take a look at the equipment yourselfBefore deciding which equipment dealer you’ll be buying from, pay the them a visit and check out in person the equipment they are selling. Test drive the equipment if possible and conduct a thorough check of the machine. This will help you determine if the equipment is in good condition, especially if you’re buying it used. Taking the equipment for a test drive will also show you if the equipment is sufficiently easy enough to operate and control.

Source: 5 quick tips to buying new or used construction equipment