can quickly escalate into expensive repairs if left unchecked.
One of the most important things to establish in the spring is a preventative maintenance schedule.
It’ s easy to push maintenance aside once the season gets busy, but reactive repairs cost a lot more than planned upkeep. Using fleet management software can help track service intervals, monitor equipment usage and send reminders when maintenance is due. Operators should also be given checklists to complete before and after each shift to catch early warning signs of potential issues. Keeping detailed maintenance records helps identify recurring problems before they turn into expensive breakdowns.
Operator Training and Small Fixes Prevent Downtime
None of this matters, though, if the people operating the equipment aren’ t on board with proper care. Operator training and communication are just as important as the maintenance itself.
Operators should know the warning signs of mechanical issues and be encouraged to report any concerns as soon as they arise.
Small problems, like a slight delay in hydraulic response or a strange noise coming from the undercarriage, can be early indicators of larger issues. Clear communication between operators and maintenance personnel helps ensure that these minor problems get addressed before they become major failures.
Taking a little extra time now to inspect, clean and replace worn-out parts can mean the difference between a smooth, profitable season and one filled with breakdowns and unexpected downtime.
When equipment is properly maintained, it runs more efficiently, lasts longer and is less likely to cause disruptions. If you stay ahead of these maintenance steps, your fleet will be ready to hit the ground running when the work starts rolling in.
www. contractorshotline. com March 7, 2025 19