Increased operational costs due to unexpected repairs and operator error along with machine downtime and poor utilization can greatly increase your total cost of ownership.
Two easy ways you can avoid both these issues and lower the Total Cost of Ownership of your JLG and Skytrak machines is to:
- Know when to replace a damaged foam or pneumatic tire. It happens but keeping an eye on your tires and replacing them immediately when damaged, will maximize your machine uptime and improve job safety.
- Avoid ruining sophisticated electronics when pressure washing. This will keep your machine out of the service department for costly repairs.
When To Replace a Damaged Tire
According to JLG, knowing when to replace a damaged tire is one of their most frequently asked questions.
The following guideline will help.
Pneumatic tires: If there are any cuts, rips or tears that expose sidewall or tread area cords in the tire, remove the tire from service immediately. Arrangements must be made for replacement of the tire or tire assembly.
Polyurethane foam filled tires: Remove the tire from service immediately and arrange replacement of the tire or tire assembly when any of the following conditions are discovered:
- A smooth, even cut through the cord plies which exceeds 3 inches (7.5 cm) in total length
- Any tears or rips (ragged edges) in the cord plies which exceed 1 inch (2.5 cm) in any direction
- Any punctures which exceed 1 inch in diameter
- Any damage to the bead area cords of the tire
If a tire is damaged but is within the above noted criteria, the tire must be inspected daily to ensure the damage has not expanded beyond the allowable criteria.
How to Safely Pressure Wash Your Machine
According to JLG it’s important when pressure washing your machine to:
- Use a maximum pressure of 750 psi (52 BAR)
- Maintain a minimum distance of 12 inches away from sensitive and sophisticated electrical components
- Avoid directly spraying components
- Limit any secondary water exposure to brief periods to avoid saturation
