Danny Broomfield, Sales Director for Jost UK, explains how a few simple spot checks can keep tipper cylinders operational for the life of the vehicle.
Used throughout the haulage industry for speed and effectiveness, hydraulic tipping equipment is a vital component fitted to many commercial vehicles. However, while the basic mechanical principles of tipping have remained unchanged for almost 100 years, the best cylinders on the market use advanced manufacturing techniques to guarantee the very best performance in terms of speed, strength and reliability. Therefore, it’s important that the correct maintenance procedures are undertaken to avoid costly failures.
Double check the service agreement
Many operators rely on manufacturer maintenance packages to keep their vehicles in good health. However, it’s important to realise that many of these packages won’t include the inspection or maintenance of tipping equipment. In fact, unless the agreement specifically states that this is included, it’s best to assume that it is not. Under UK health and safety legislation, it is the responsibility of the operator to ensure critical equipment is suitably maintained – so if a failure were to occur, the burden of responsibility would fall on the operator’s shoulders.
Perform weekly inspections
Edbro tipping gear, a brand of Jost, should have no problems lasting the life of the vehicle, but that’s not to say that they can be completely neglected. You’d never dream of running an engine year after year without regular maintenance, and it shouldn’t be any different for tipping equipment. A simple check list of visual and mechanical inspections shouldn’t take any longer than 15 minutes, but it can help you spot a potential problem before it becomes a failure.
Only use quality parts
From time to time, an inspection will uncover a worn part or potential problem. This is only natural when working with moving mechanical parts. Whether it’s a broken seal, a worn hinge bush or damaged hose, it’s important that you specify replacement parts from authorised suppliers. Not only will this guarantee that the new part will fit with your equipment, it will also make sure that you’re not adding any weak points into the system.
If you’re not sure, ask
Sometimes we think we know all there is to know after many years in the industry, but when it comes to servicing and maintenance of safety critical equipment, it’s always better to ask an expert than hope for the best. From instruction videos available online, through to free, on-site training days for maintenance crew, Jost UK offers a host of aftersales support services for all Edbro tipping equipment to help ensure end-users are getting the most out of their equipment.
Edbro tipping gear is well regarded in the industry – every cylinder is delivered with a ‘fit and forget’ promise. The company is proud of this reputation and wants to make sure all of its customers reap the benefits of ownership.
