The tires on large power and construction machines can often be one of the biggest operating costs for equipment. Keeping tires in good condition can help boost productivity, reduce downtime, improve safety, and even increase fuel economy.

 

Good maintenance is beneficial to lower operating costs as well. A well-maintained machine starts from the ground up, and that means basic tire program with monitoring, maintenance, and even tracking software. Checking for abnormal wear and tear before and after each use, cleaning, removing rocks and other debris, check the condition of the lugs and sidewall separation, and any damage to rims and tread. Here are a few important steps to tire maintenance for large power and construction equipment:

 

Routine Maintenance

Periodic maintenance should include checking the air pressure, measuring tread depth, and making visual inspections for damage and ensuring diameter matches. It’s best not to wait for the service tech to make any repairs, so operators should be trained. This will help to conserve fuel, tread life, and maximize cost efficiency.

Operators should also know not to exceed their machine’s limits, which include maintaining proper speeds and not overloading the machine. Different loads require different pressures, so each inspection should be done with the tire cold, and knowing when to use a bore pressure gauge. Schedule a routine maintenance program and make sure operators and technicians both are informed and committed to it.

 

Use Vendors for Bigger Repairs

If you determine a more in-depth inspection or discover service is needed, partner up with your tire vendor. Let the experts handle it. These are specialized pieces of equipment that dealers are better equipped to handle, and using them will also free you up to continue running your business. Not only that, you will spare your operators and mechanics from safety hazards like explosions if they are not careful.

But make no mistake, regular maintenance is still a top priority, which will lessen the time and costs associated with repairs from vendors. Another benefit of using them is that a tire tech can work evenings or weekends to prevent lost time during business hours if your machine needs to be sidelined for a bit.

 

Tire Training

Partner with your tire companies for generic training. They’re the experts, so have them instruct your crew on what to do to keep the tires in top condition. It will at least provide them with the fundamentals they’ll need to maintain steady upkeep and preservation. If necessary, schedule safety talks monthly too. Safety habits are a good way to ensure tire protection.

 

Tracking

Many major tire vendors now offer tire tracking software, which will measure tire performance, air pressure, tread depths, retreads, rotation schedules, visual comments, and percent utilization. Its metrics are trusted and it is a surefire way to maintain preservation. This will bring you many benefits, both long- and short-term. You can inspect inventory and asset reports on a monthly basis and also generate budgets, plan acquisitions, compare cost and value.

If you would like more information on tire maintenance for large power and construction equipment in Hampton or Portsmouth, NH, get in touch with us at Tri-Rent-All today.