Introduction
Maintenance is vital to keep equipment running smoothly, minimize costly downtimes and avoid disputes with your rental company, even if the machine is rented or yours. Neglecting rented equipment can cause delays, chargeable damages, and site safety issues to be cited. Most rental companies such as New Town Engineering Pte Ltd will provide a service and repair as part of their rental agreement. This article provides a general overview of tips for maintaining rented construction equipment.
Important tips for maintaining the rented construction equipment
Understand The Rental Agreement
The first thing a user must do to maintain any rented equipment is understand the rental agreement for the equipment. Most rental contracts include a section identifying your responsibilities regarding any care of their equipment. Some rental agreements include a service clause to help you understand if the rental maintenance is only the responsibility of the rental company or the renter.
Conduct Pre-Operation Inspections
Each operational day operators should conduct a basic pre-operation inspection before using the rented equipment. Addressing matters during these basic inspections can prevent unplanned breakdowns, as well as ensure the equipment is indeed in a safe operating condition.
Maintain Cleanliness For Temporary Equipment
Construction sites are generally dirty places, but that doesn’t mean that your time on the piece of equipment must remain dirty. Mud and dust can clog essential parts, overheat systems, and lead to faster wear. Cleaning equipment at the end of a working day helps maintain the functionality and shows responsibility to the rental company.
Check Fluid Levels and Change Filters
It is very important to check and top up fluids, particularly if you are renting for a prolonged time. You should monitor engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant and fuel regularly. Furthermore, air and oil filters should be checked and exchanged as needed when it is clean.
Take Note of Warning Lights
Modern construction machines have sensors and display several warning codes, low fluid level indicators and maintenance alerts. These should not be ignored. If you have a low fluid or warning light or message on the displays, the operator should stop the machine and determine what the warning is.
If Something is Wrong Report it
If you experience unusual noise, reduced performance, leaks or error codes report it to the rental provider as soon as possible. Reporting problems as they arise will not only prevent further damage but also may get you a replacement unit or immediate technical support.
Conclusion
Renting construction equipment represents a major investment, even a temporary one and should be treated with equal care and attention as owned equipment.