When you depend on specific machinery daily, you know the frustration when a crucial piece breaks down. It costs you time and money to repair or replace, and your reputation could suffer because of unfulfilled orders.
Even top-of-the-line machines will work inefficiently and eventually fail without the correct care. This is why at Inca Lifts we make sure our clients understand the critical nature of proper maintenance.
Correct maintenance is not just a smart idea. In Australia, it is the law. Among other things, Australian Standard AS/NZ 1418.9 requires the following:
- ‘In House’ training of all users of the hoist
- Ensure safety procedures are visible and available, including hoist decals and operation manuals.
- Record all inspections, maintenance, modifications, and repairs, and retain the logs.
- Hoists must undergo inspection by a qualified person when the machine reaches ten years of service.
- After 25 years of use, the hoist manufacturer must be contacted to see if the machine is eligible for an extension for its continued use. This is because most machinery of this type has a 25-year ‘design life.’
To help you keep your equipment in excellent condition, here are the top three ways you can maintain your mobile hoists.
1. Regular Inspections
It is easy to become wrapped up in work projects and misses small but significant issues with your hoist equipment. A daily visual inspection is necessary to prevent widespread, more expensive, and potentially dangerous situations. Additionally, your hoist equipment should undergo monthly inspections checking for wear and tear and malfunctions or poor performance.
If your hoist machinery is modified in some way or if it has not been used for several months, you should inspect it to ensure safe operations upon use.
2. Proper Cleaning and Lubrication
Debris is one of the top reasons for hoist failure. Ensure your machinery is in top shape by cleaning and lubricating it according to the manufacturer’s direction. Do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer if you do not have access to cleaning and lubricating instructions.
3. Professional Maintenance
Keeping up with maintenance is vital to ensure your equipment is safe for use and working well. In addition, you should schedule an annual maintenance session with a professional auto lift technician who is a specialist in your particular brand of hoist.
In between professional checkups, follow this checklist of regular maintenance tasks.
DAILY
- Wipe away dirt or grease
- Inspect the moving parts, cables, and hoses for problems such as signs of unusual wear and tear.
- Check the locking mechanisms and safety features before use
- Make a note of any parts that are not functioning correctly and replace them right away
WEEKLY
- Inspect all pulleys, rollers, chains, and safety lock pivot points and lubricate them to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust
- Check for proper mounting of nuts, bolts, cables, and pins. Tighten anything that seems loose.
- Look for damaged parts and replace them as needed
MONTHLY
- Check the tension of hoses, chains, and cables and adjust as needed
- Carefully clean the entire lift. Not only does this improve the appearance and prevent decay, but it exposes any hidden issues
- Check anchor bolts and tighten any loose bolts
- Check to make sure the hoist columns are securely bolted to the shop floor and sit squarely in place
You can count on top quality at a fair price regardless of the type of Inca Lifts product you purchased. If you are unsure about maintenance, please reach out to us. Everyone who represents Inca Lifts is trained to ensure our customers are satisfied and their expectations exceeded.