Case gives us advice on how to lower operating and ownership costs of wheeled loaders.
This is the third and final part of the series of articles by Case that help us improve our management of wheeled loaders. The aspects covered in the first two articles included purchasing the correct size loader, knowing your engine, matching axles to the operation, automatic bucket controls and attachment maintenance. In this issue, we look at operating modes, telematics, operating practices, planned maintenance contracts and utilising remanufactured parts:
- Operating Modes: Operators need to be aware of and take advantage of the operating mode options. Wheeled loaders usually feature different operating modes with varying RPMs and fuel efficiency. They also have an auto-idle feature that begins after three seconds of inactivity, and an auto-shutdown feature that shuts the machine down after three minutes to further reduce fuel consumption.
- Telematics: Telematics systems provide machine owners with much data on how a machine is being utilized in the field, and provides other information to reduce ownership costs. Owners need to spend time reviewing the data and understanding aspects such as fuel consumption and idle time.
- Operating Practices: Operators should be coached to reduce equipment costs, including methods to reduce idle time, operating the machine in a manner that puts the least amount of wear and stress on the undercarriage, and proper use of bucket controls and functions to optimize fuel efficiency. Reducing unnecessarily rough or unsafe operating practices will reduce damage to the machine and the jobsite.
- Planned Maintenance Contracts: Maintenance contracts can potentially save equipment owners time and money. These savings can be especially beneficial where organisations are not large enough to have dedicated mechanics or staff that is knowledgeable in equipment maintenance.
- Utilizing Remanufactured Parts: Remanufactured parts have become increasingly common and can be used successfully to lower operating costs. Many OEMs now keep a large inventory of remanufactured parts and components in stock. Ordering these parts and having them installed can cost less than waiting to have parts repaired. The cost of remanufactured parts can often be up to 40 percent less than a new part, and most feature warranties. This provides owners with peace of mind and protection against additional costs during the life of the warranty.