Any construction or laborer business understands the importance of quality equipment. Without quality equipment, your work would suffer and it would take longer. However, quality equipment can be very expensive. It can also cost a lot for frequent repairs, if they are required. Although this may not be a problem for large scale businesses, smaller and medium sized businesses may struggle with the upkeep and repairs of their heavy equipment. Consider the following upkeep and maintenance tips to keep your machinery in the best shape possible, with spending the least amount of money.

Purchase quality from the start

You may be tempted to purchase discounted and used machinery, however, used machines are more likely to require regular repairs. When possible, purchase new and attempt to purchase well known brands that are likely to last longer. For example, in 2012, Illinois based Caterpillar topped the list of the world?s largest construction machinery makers. The manufacturer of engines and machines such as skid steer loaders, off highway trucks, and wheel excavators generated around 65.88 billion U.S. dollars in global revenue in 2012.

The brand Caterpillar provides all sizes of businesses with quality machinery tools. They will also stand behind their work and will usually offer warranties on new and used Caterpillar parts. They are a cutting edge business that has been around for many years, and will remain important in the heavy machinery and tool industry.

Consider warranties

Many people may be tempted to turn down a warranty offer to save a couple hundred dollars on an expensive purchase. That warranty, however, can save you thousands later on, if repairs are needed. Even used Caterpillar parts can get very expensive. With a warranty, the manufacturer will replace the used Caterpillar parts, including both the cost of the parts and the labor required for repairs.

Learn proper handling techniques

One common cause of equipment breakdown is user error, which is not covered under any warranty. This amounts to over 35% of equipment failure. Most heavy equipment machines have manuals and recommended operating guidelines. Following these specific guidelines that are often set by the manufacturer themselves, are the best way to get the most out of the machines and prevent costly repairs. Business owners should also be hesitant about letting untrained workers on machines, as it can be dangerous for both the machinery and the employee.

Find a used part supplier

Although purchasing new heavy equipment machinery often provides the best return, used parts tend to work for repairs. Used Caterpillar parts can save the equipment owner hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars. It can be extremely beneficial to find a used Caterpillar parts supplier ahead of time. When a new part is needed, you will be able to replace it quickly and for a more affordable price. It is also likely that you find used parts in a variety of tools, including bucket pins and even hardox plates.

Regular preventative maintenance

Preventative maintenance is one of the most overlooked, yet useful ways of extending the life of your heavy equipment. Most pieces of construction equipment have life expectancies of 15 years. However, it is important to remember that the 15 year life expectancy depends on not only the amount of usage of the machine, but also the maintenance that is completed on it. Regular maintenance will reduce the amount of repairs needs and extend the life of the machinery.

Along with preventative maintenance, cooling systems are also necessary. Heavy equipment tends to get extremely hot and can easily overheat. Heavy equipment cooling systems can help to reduce the heat and cool the tool. The reduction in heat is an important part in protecting the inner parts of the machine, reducing the likeliness of needing used Caterpillar parts for replacement.

Although expensive, heavy equipment tools make jobs easier and timelier. Small to medium sized businesses may struggle with the high costs of these necessary equipment machines. However, with the right amount of preventative maintenance and proper usage, they will find that the machine requires less repairs and lasts longer, thus extending the value of the tool.