Even though cranes are extremely robust and heavy duty pieces of equipment, just like any other machine, they need regular servicing to operate at their prime and cranes do break down from time to time. As strong as they are, cranes are far from being invincible and most cranes operate under extreme pressure and heavy workloads. Heavy equipment maintenance is therefore vital.
To ensure your crane remains in the best shape possible, let’s take a look at some signs that your crane needs servicing or is in need of crane repairs.
#1 – You Notice Your Crane Is Leaking Fluid
If your crane has sprung a leak, it will be time to have it looked at by a qualified mechanic before that leak transforms into a major problem and expensive repair job. The leak could be a water leak, hydraulic fluid or an oil leak. No matter what type of leak it is suffering from, don’t put off having the leak diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
Leaking fluid of any kind is never a good sign and the leak could compromise the capacity and the safety of the crane. Also, prefer Mobile Crane Hire that are a best for your business and for your construction site that make your work more easier.
#2 – The Crane Is Making Unusual Noises
Unless you are a trained expert in the mechanics of a crane, it can be difficult to determine what the noise is, what it means or even which part of the crane it is coming from. Unusual noises generally indicate that parts of the crane are worn out or damaged.
If your crane starts making sounds you’re unaccustomed to, it’s best to book it in for a service and all-over checkup.
#3 – Obvious Broken Or Loose Parts
You may have spotted a section of the crane has come loose or those suspicious noises you’ve been hearing indicate a part has broken and needs replacing.
If it’s obvious that the crane has suffered damage and needs repairs, don’t continue to use the crane even if it remains operational. You could just end up causing even more damage. Worse still, an accident could be the result.
Have a crane mechanic visit ASAP to replace any broken or loose parts so the crane can be safely operated.
#4 – You Notice Areas Of Corrosion
While some corrosion on a heavy duty crane is bound to happen, if vital parts of the machine start to corrode, this will affect the integrity of those parts and the corrosion will weaken the parts over time. The result will likely be a broken part, or worse.
Rusty crane parts are not something to be swept under the carpet. Cranes handle heavy loads and any compromising of the stability and rigidity of the crane can actually put lives in danger. If you notice key parts of the crane are rusted, have your crane serviced and repaired.
#5 – Damage To the Crane’s Hooks
This is the standout part on most cranes and the section of the crane that attaches to the loads it is lifting and moving about. A damaged crane hook, such as a bent or misshapen hook, is not going to be effective and could ultimately end up breaking and dropping a heavy load. That’s not a scenario you ever want to encounter, so if you notice the crane’s hook is damaged, have it looked at immediately.
#6 – Frayed or Damaged Wire Ropes
This is a surefire sign that you need to book in for crane servicing and repairs. The wire ropes that operate a crane do become worn over time and if things like the tracking are out of alignment, it can result in excessive wear on the wire ropes, causing them to fray.
#7 – Pad Wear
These are the feet of the crane’s outriggers and carry the full weight of the crane’s movements. Pads can wear out quickly and become destabilised. Never ignore worn pads on the outriggers. Get them replaced ASAP to keep the crane stable and functioning at its prime.
#8 – Your Crane Is Just Under-Performing In General
Maybe your crane isn’t suffering from any obvious damage but is merely not performing at its peak. Book in for crane servicing and your mechanic will soon have the crane operating to its maximum capacity once more.
