An Inspection Guide for Heavy Equipment

Regular inspections of your heavy equipment will help your machinery run better and go longer before they need a trip to the mechanic. You'll also be able to catch issues while they are small before they manifest into larger, more dangerous, and more expensive problems. 

But knowing you should inspect your heavy equipment is one thing. Knowing how to inspect your machines is another. We've created the following beginner's guide to make the process easier for you. If you want more maintenance tips or want to look at heavy equipment for sale, visit Synergy Equipment. Our dealerships are located in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

Start with the Owner's Manual

You'll want to begin by reviewing the owner's manuals for all the heavy equipment you have. It will often contain specific timelines and procedures recommended by the manufacturer. After all, who knows the equipment better than the company that created it?

Know the Daily Tasks

There are certain tasks that need to be performed before a piece of heavy equipment can be safely operated. If you use your machines as part of your job, then there are OSHA requirements involving the specifics of the inspection. Make sure everyone who is involved with the inspection is aware of what tasks need to be completed before using the equipment, such as primary operators and supervisors.

Inspect for Safety

A key part of heavy equipment inspection is checking all the relevant safety features. Each piece of machinery will have its own specific parts to check, but this often includes brakes, coupling devices, seat belts, parking system, safety devices, and steering mechanisms. Be sure to check these pieces often and ensure your equipment is ready to safely operate.

Inspect for Damage and Wear

Another key step of inspections is looking to see if you can spot any excessive wear or damage to your heavy machinery. Even the highest quality models can start to get worn down due to continued use.

Start with the tires. Is there still enough tread left, according to the manufacturer's recommendations? Are there any signs of damage, such as items lodged into the wall?

Next, look around the area. Do you see any pools of liquid that isn't simply condensation? Leaking fluid is a big red flag that you should make an appointment with a mechanic.

Next, spend some time looking over the frame. Do you see any structural damage, dents, or scratches? A small ding may not be an issue, but it's important to note where damage has occurred and ensure that it's not indicative of internal damage as well.

Next, check out your fluid levels, such as hydraulic oil, exhaust fluid, and coolant. Fill up on any fluids as needed. Then check the filters to see if it is time to replace them.

Finally, make sure the heavy equipment is ready to operate. Grease the arms if needed, check out the condition of any attachments you plan on using, test any lights to ensure no light bulbs have burned out, and so on. If the heavy equipment has passed the various inspections, then you are ready to get some work done.

We hope you found this guide helpful. If you discover an issue with your heavy equipment, bring it to the expert staff at Synergy Equipment's service department. We can get it repaired and ready for work in no time. We also offer a range of heavy equipment for sale if you are looking to buy. Whatever you need, you can find with us. We have dealership locations in FL, GA, and SC so stop by your nearest location today.