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News Boom lift maintenance checklist – How to extend the life of your AWPs

Boom lift maintenance checklist – How to extend the life of your AWPs

boom maintenance checklist

Aerial work platforms play an important role in various industries, especially in Municipalities, providing a safe and efficient means of access to hard-to-reach areas.

To ensure their safe and long-term operation, however, it is necessary to implement a comprehensive maintenance and service program.

Gepalift, a company with long experience in boom lifts, has created a comprehensive guide to help you extend the life of your AWPs.

Keep reading to find tips and practices that will extend the life of your equipment, enhancing both its efficiency and safe use.

 

Tip #1: Understand your machine

Before dealing with any lift truck maintenance or service, it’s important to understand its special features. Many times, in addition to its basic equipment, an aerial work platform may include additional technologies that require special handling.

For example, Gepalift lift trucks can include automatic positioning system, polyester work basket with insulation for 5,000 Volt etc., which means that you need to know the specifics of your machine in order to check all the necessary details.

 

boom lift maintenance

 

Learn more: Types of boom lifts – what to choose depending on your needs

 

Tip #2: Do regular inspections 

Doing regular inspections is the cornerstone of maintenance.

Perform frequent inspections before and after operating your lift trucks and adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended inspection schedule.

Look for screws that might be loose, leaks, worn parts and signs of wear and tear – this way you’ll catch any issues early on, before they escalate into something costly or even dangerous.

Your boom lift maintenance checklist should include the following:

  • Inspect the entire machine for visible damage.
  • Check that all safety systems are working properly.
  • Check the battery and the level of fuel, oil, coolant, etc. – sudden drops may mean leaks.
  • Inspect the brakes, cables and wiring for signs of wear.
  • Check the tires for wear, damage, or punctures, as well as their pressure.
  • Check the boom, platform, basket, and other elements for cracks etc.
  • Ensure that all necessary components are adequately lubricated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Inspect joints and mounting hardware for safe transportation.
  • Make sure the owner’s manual is easily accessible.

 

bucket lift truck maintenance

 

Tip #3: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions 

Manufacturers provide detailed maintenance instructions for a reason.

Follow these recommendations, including maintenance schedules and procedures. Use only authorized parts to ensure compatibility and maintain optimal performance for each boom lift.

 

Tip #4: Implement preventive maintenance strategies

Preventive boom lift maintenance involves the regular inspection, maintenance, and repair of equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure optimum performance.

It is a proactive approach that aims to identify and address potential issues before they lead to failure.

 

Benefits of preventive lift truck maintenance

  • Increased equipment life: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your telescopic aerial work platform, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
  • Improved safety: Preventive maintenance helps identify and correct safety hazards before they become threatening, enhancing overall workplace safety.
  • Reduced downtime: By addressing issues proactively, you can minimize unexpected breakdowns, resulting in less downtime and increased productivity.
  • Cost savings: Early detection and correction of problems often results in lower repair costs compared to major failures.

 

Benefits of preventive lift truck maintenance

 

Tip #5: Invest in proper training

The staff plays a very important role in the maintenance and safety of your lift trucks.

Make sure operators are well trained and certified for the specific type of lift and task.

Finally, it’s a good idea to encourage operators to immediately report any unusual vibrations, sounds, or features that seem “strange”. An experienced and properly trained operator has valuable knowledge and can report issues before they escalate.

 

Learn more: Safety tips for aerial work platform operators – Everything you need to know

 

Tip #6: Stick to the right usage and load limits

One of the most important equipment maintenance tips is to follow capacity guidelines to prevent overloading, which can lead to premature wear and tear.

Use the AWP only for the tasks for which it is designed and intended, and within specified environmental conditions, to prevent unnecessary stress on the equipment.

 

Tip #7: Clean and store your gear properly

Keep the lift basket clean so that its performance is not affected by dirt and dust, branches and leaves, water, etc.

It is important to clean and inspect the platform controls regularly, as cleanliness is vital to their proper operation.

Finally, protect your aerial work platform from the elements (rain, wind, snow) by storing it in a dry, covered area when not in use.

 

Tip #8: Keep a maintenance log

Maintain a detailed maintenance and inspection log, including dates, repairs, and part replacements.

This documentation serves to identify recurring problems and allows for early intervention.

 

boom lift truck service

 

Tip #9: Work with an experiences boom lift manufacturer

To be sure that your professional equipment will work without problems, trust a company that has been active in this field for years and has the know-how, experience, and reliability to meet your every need.

Gepalift is a Greek company, unique in its kind, specializing in the manufacture of lift trucks since 1981.

With a team of technicians constantly available, covering needs for spare parts and service within 4-24 hours and having intelligent diagnostic systems to complete any check safely and successfully, we are at your side so that the maintenance of your boom lifts yields the best possible results.

Get in touch to learn more.

 

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