Heavy Equipment

• • Check the seatbelts: Insert the seatbelt into the buckle and tug on the belt to see if it works.
  • Check the parts: Check for worn, torn or loosened parts.
  • Watch for leaks: Puddles or wet spots may be underneath the equipment.
  • Inspect fluid levels: Test all the fluid levels and the windshield washer fluid.
  • Look at the undercarriage: Rollers may be missing or worn, and you should check the track tension and excavators.
  • Check the oil level: Test the oil levels to be sure you don’t need an oil change.
  • Inspect the engine: Check the engine for leaks, oil pressure and misplaced guards, covers, hoses and belts.
  • Check the engine support: The springs, equalizer bar and shackle bolts should be secure.
  • Check the idlers and sprockets: Look for cracks in the spokes and ensure there are no welds.
  • Inspect the gauges and lights: The speedometer should work correctly. Lights should be properly mounted.
  • Look at the tires: Clear the tires of debris and check for nails, screws, cuts, sag or holes.
  • Check the rims: Look for damage and replace bolts and nuts as needed.
  • Secure the valvestems: Secure the caps in place.
  • Turn the steering wheel
  • Check the belts: Belts should be free of splits or cracks.
  • Check the hoses: Inspect hoses for holes, pinches or open areas.
  • Test the suspension system: (if applicable) If the suspension vibrates, bounces or makes an unusual noise, it may need replacing.
  • Test the battery: The battery should be connected and charged. Look at the cables, connections and clamps.
  • Inspect the fan belts: Check for cracks, frays or tension.
  • Check the cooling system: Look for leaks and other damaged parts.
  • The radiator guard and belly plate should be free of debris and properly mounted.
  • Look at the fuel system: Check for leaks and other damaged parts.
  • Inspect the cab condition: Check the horn, wiper blades, seat belts, mirrors and glass parts.
  • Control Levers and Knobs in place and function properly.

After the heavy equipment has warmed up for a few minutes, complete a warm-up checklist before operating the machine:

• • Check the alarm: Test that any alarm systems work before using the machine.
  • Test the horn: Before using the equipment, check the horn and test how loud it is.
  • Air filters: Need to Clean or replace the filters as needed and pay attention to unusual noises and warning signs.
  • Inspect the lights: Look at the brake, signal and headlights, backup lights and other light features.
  • Test the hydraulics: Inspect the hydraulic systems and lines and look for irregular noises.
  • Check fluid levels: Look at the hydraulic oil, the steering tank, engine coolant and swing drives.
  • Test the brakes: Make sure the brakes work correctly and replace brake pads as needed.

• • Look for unusual noises, metal on metal, grinding, banging/clunking at pivot points.
  • Monitor the gauges: The gauges should be at safe levels at all times.
  • Check for vibrations: Excessive vibrations may indicate that a part needs replacing.
  • Look for changes in performance: Does it run better or have more hydraulic power when cold or warm.
  • Does it dig, run, lift, haul, or push like it should.