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Maintaining Your Equipment: A Blueprint for Efficiency

As an equipment owner, you play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your equipment. This guide empowers you with the knowledge and tools to do so effectively. No matter your equipment, it performs best when you stick to an equipment maintenance schedule. A proper schedule, which includes greasing, ensures smooth operation and prolongs equipment life. 

This not only reduces downtime and stress but also significantly lowers ownership expenses. Accessible preventative maintenance schedules provide all the information you need to keep your machinery in top shape, ensuring a smart and cost-effective investment.

 

Why Equipment Maintenance Matters:

 

Efficiency: Routine maintenance helps equipment operate more efficiently.

Longevity: Regular servicing can extend the operational life of your equipment.

Cost Reduction: Less downtime and fewer repairs mean reduced costs.

Peace of Mind: Knowing your equipment is well-maintained reduces stress and worry.

 

Performing routine maintenance protects your investment by lowering your ownership costs.

 

Adhering to a structured maintenance plan optimizes equipment performance and ensures its durability and reliability. The benefits extend beyond operational efficiency and translate into tangible savings. Here are some specifics about daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance checks you should perform based on equipment type.

HYDRATAIL TRAILER | HYDRATAIL TRUCK

Daily Service Checks:

– Running lights, brake lights, and turn signals

– Reflectors/conspicuity tape

– Tire pressure and condition

– Wheels and wheel nuts

– Oil in axle hubs

– Brakes functionality

– Power Take Off for leaking

– Electric and air connections

– Frame & cross members

– Mud flaps

– Floor

– Winch cable

– Fluid levels, if applicable

– Landing gear, if applicable

 

Weekly Service Checks:

– Lubricate tail and mini deck hinge points

– Hydraulic system for leaks and oil levels in the reservoir

 

When lubricating equipment, use GL2 marine-based grease.

 

Monthly Service Checks:

– Grease all zerks, including cylinder pins, H-lock, fold lock, fold linkage, and tail

– Cylinders for leaks

– All wiring, air lines & hydraulic lines

– Winch cable for fraying/bends

– Bed/Trailer structure

– Hydraulic oil for dirt/water

 

Hydraulic System Maintenance:

– Check hydraulic system for leaks and oil levels in the reservoir

– Change hydraulic oil filters twice a year

– Change hydraulic oil at least once a year.

ROLLBACK TRUCK

Daily Service Checks:

– Running lights, brake lights, and turn signals

– Reflectors/conspicuity tape

– Tire pressure and condition

– Wheels and wheel nuts

– Oil in axle hubs

– Brakes functionality

– Power Take Off for leaking

– Electric and air connections

– Frame & cross members

– Mud flaps

– Fluid levels

– Floor

– Winch cable

 

Weekly Service Checks:

– Apply grease to the main runners of the bed

– Grease all cylinder pins

– Grease pivot blocks 

– Hydraulic system for leaks and oil levels in the reservoir

When greasing equipment, use GL2 marine-based grease.

 

Monthly Service Checks:

– Grease all zerks, including cylinder pins, H-lock, fold lock, fold linkage, and tail

– Cylinders for leaks

– All wiring, air lines & hydraulic lines

– Winch cable for fraying/bends

– Bed structure

– Hydraulic oil for dirt/water

– Slide pads for wear

 

Hydraulic System Maintenance:

– Check the hydraulic system for leaks and oil levels in the reservoir.

– Clean dirt from the I-beam and nylatron pads where they slide together and lightly grease.

– Clean off the valve spools and oil lightly.

– Grease fittings as necessary with GL2 marine-based grease.

– Change hydraulic oil filters twice a year and change hydraulic oil at least once a year.

DUMP TRUCK

Daily Service Checks:

– Brake lights and turn signals

– Reflectors/conspicuity tape

– Tire pressure and condition

– Wheels and wheel nuts

– Oil in axle hubs

– Brakes functionality

– Power Take Off for leaking

– Electric and air connections

– Structure

– Mud flaps

– Fluid levels

– Inside dump bed

– Hoist

 

Weekly Service Checks:

– Hydraulic bolts and fittings

– Grease fittings and lubricated as needed

 

Monthly Service Checks:

– Cylinders for leaks

– All wiring, air lines & hydraulic lines

– Bed structure

– Hydraulic oil for dirt/water

– PTO to ensure bolts are tight

– Tarp and boards for wear

 

Hydraulic System Maintenance:

– Check the hydraulic system for leaks and oil levels in the reservoir.

– Change hydraulic oil filters twice a year 

– Change hydraulic oil at least once a year

WATER TRUCK

Daily Service Checks:

– Brake lights and turn signals

– Reflectors/conspicuity tape

– Tire pressure and condition

– Wheels and wheel nuts

– Oil in axle hubs

– Brakes functionality

– Power Take Off for leaking

– Electric and air connections

– Structure

– Mud flaps

– Fluid levels

– Pump

 

Monthly Service Checks:

– Pump packing with recommended leakage of 30 to 60 drops per minute

– Inspect the Drive Line and lubricate u-joints

– PTO to ensure bolts are tight

 

Seasonal Equipment Maintenance:

If freezing temperatures are imminent, open all valves and drain cocks to drain the system completely.

Equipment maintenance schedules are readily accessible! You’ll find everything you need to know about caring for your machinery and ensuring it’s in tip-top shape. So, keep those machines humming and watch your efficiency soar!

Boost Your Productivity with a Hooklift: The Ultimate Solution for Versatile Operations

In today’s world, efficiency and versatility are vital to achieving optimal productivity. We at Ledwell constantly search for innovative solutions to boost your company’s capabilities. Enter the next Ledwell product offering, game-changing equipment designed to take your productivity to the next level — Stellar NXT Series Hooklift.

 Unparalleled Flexibility and Efficiency:

One of the best features of a Stellar Hooklift is its unique bolt-on body lock system, which provides universal adjustment for inside and outside locks. With just one truck and one operator, you can handle multiple capacities, body types, and sizes. Say goodbye to time-consuming setup changes and hello to increased efficiency.

 Advanced Hooklift Design for Enhanced Performance:

The NXT Series boasts various design innovations contributing to its exceptional performance. The telescopic jib, featuring a lightweight yet robust multi-plate design, allows for handling different body lengths. Whether dealing with smaller or larger containers, the telescopic jib provides a reliable and secure structure, ensuring smooth, streamlined operations.

 Industry-Leading Features for Precision Control:

Ledwell understands the importance of accuracy and ease of operation. We partnered with Stellar to bring their job-ready service trucks on board, also seizing the chance to present the NXT Series with various features to our customers. The universal latching system, with adjustable body locks, enables operators to match the lift bar height of a fleet of containers, ensuring seamless hook deployment and minimizing challenges.

Plus, the electronic controls with programmable logic and the wireless remote control deliver precision and convenience at your fingertips. Whether inside the truck’s cab or outside, you can easily control and deploy the hooklift, increasing efficiency and saving valuable time.

 Unmatched Versatility for Diverse Applications:

These hooklifts excel in various industries and applications, offering flexibility for countless tasks. From agriculture to utilities, construction to landscaping, and even city and government services, the NXT Series has proven to be a reliable workhorse. With over 100 different applications, including equipment transportation, waste collection, recycling, and more, Stellar Hooklifts can adapt to meet the unique demands of your business.

Reach out to us at Ledwell today to see how we can help.

Winter 2024

Cultivating Excellence: Unveiling the SEED Program

 

In 2023, Ledwell began a program to strengthen the company’s next generation of leaders. The Skill Enhancement & Employee Development Program, also known as the SEED Program, is an initiative providing insights and connections among participants.

Read more

Elevating Road Safety: Customize Crash Trucks

 

In today’s world, where road safety is a high priority, innovative solutions continually evolve to protect construction site workers and the drivers who share the road. Among these solutions, Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMAs) have become essential for safeguarding lives during roadwork and maintenance activities.

 

Read more

Employee Spotlight: Mike Hensarling

 

After serving in the Navy and learning to be a machinist, Mike Hensarling made his way to Ledwell in 2006, where he began in the Machine Shop and now serves as Foreman.

 

Read more

Your Solution for On-The-Go Fleet Maintenance

 

When your equipment requires service after a long day in the field, the traditional approach often involves a time-consuming trip back to a service center, leading to downtime and increased expenses. However, Ledwell has a solution – the Ledwell Lube Buddy.

Read more

Ledwell’s Commitment to Inspiring Future Innovators

 

Every year, on the first Friday in October, Manufacturing Day is celebrated across the United States, reminding us of how important manufacturing is to our economy. It’s a day to acknowledge the manufacturing industry’s significance and inspire the next generation of makers, creators, and innovators.

Read more

The Power of Ramp It Up

 

Ledwell employees have come together to create a unique and inspiring shirt design, showcasing their creativity and teamwork. The design features a clever play on words based on a comment, “We need to ramp it up.”

Often heard in the Ramp Shop, this phrase has since become a motivating statement for Ledwell, encouraging
employees to strive for excellence and maintain the high standards the company is known for.

Ledwell went above and beyond in designing and building our heavy haul truck. This thing is a game-changer for our field operations and far exceeds the expectations we had.

Kenny DubeECCO Enterprises, Inc.

This type of service and hospitality is rarely seen, it’s obvious Ledwell values each customer and takes pride in their products.

Arnie Tognozzi

 

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Send me the Nuts & Bolts

Your Solution for On-The-Go Fleet Maintenance

When your equipment requires service after a long day in the field, the traditional approach often involves a time-consuming trip back to a service center, leading to downtime and increased expenses. However, Ledwell has your fleet maintenance solution – the Ledwell Lube Buddy.

The Lube Buddy is your mobile lube service center, ready to transform how you handle fleet maintenance.

Designed with the versatility of light-duty pickup trucks in mind, it’s a compact yet powerful solution that can also double as a service center right on the job site. Say goodbye to the back-and-forth trips and get your vehicles back in action faster.

The Ledwell Lube Buddy comes equipped with a range of features:

Fresh and Waste Multi-Tank Configurations:

The Lube Buddy keeps your fluids organized and separate for optimal performance.

Metering Nozzle with Quick Connects:

Accurate measurements and easy connections streamline maintenance tasks.

Spill & Overflow Pans:

Maintain a clean and safe workspace, reducing the risk of accidents.

Easy Installation:

Setting up your Lube Buddy is a breeze thanks to its simple installation process.

In a world where every moment counts, the Ledwell Lube Buddy is here to revolutionize how you handle fleet maintenance and lube services. No more wasted time and money on trips to centralized service centers. Instead, choose the Lube Buddy that fits your needs and experience the future of fleet maintenance today.

It’s time to work smarter, not harder, with the Ledwell Lube Buddy by your side.

The Power of Ramp It Up

The power to ramp it up at Ledwell

Ledwell employees have come together to create a unique and inspiring shirt design, showcasing their creativity and teamwork. The design features a clever play on words based on a comment, “We need to ramp it up.”

Often heard in the Ramp Shop, this phrase has since become a motivating statement for Ledwell, encouraging employees to strive for excellence and maintain the high standards the company is known for.

The power to ramp it up at Ledwell

Cultivating Excellence: Unveiling the SEED Program

In 2023, Ledwell began a program to strengthen the company’s next generation of leaders. The Skill Enhancement & Employee Development Program, also known as the SEED Program, is an initiative providing insights and connections among participants.

The SEED Program centers on equipping employees with an understanding of Ledwell’s products and processes, ensuring the continuation of the legacy established in 1946 by Buddy Ledwell and his father.

More than just a learning opportunity, the program fosters a bond among participants, creating an environment where individuals and departments consult easily.

Sessions are held every other week to discuss various shops and departments. Some sessions, like those in the Machine Shop and Engineering, provide participants with eye-opening experiences. Several graduates enjoyed learning the ins and outs of the Machine Shop process, emphasizing how it unveils the journey of parts through various stages.

Others highlighted the importance of understanding the intricacies of engineering, enabling participants to make informed decisions that uphold Ledwell’s commitment to quality.

The SEED Program’s impact extends beyond the sessions, as graduates bring newfound knowledge back to their roles, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting cross-departmental collaboration. It also reinforces Ledwell’s commitment to continuous improvement and the development of a closely knit family within its workforce.

Elevating Road Safety: Customized Crash Trucks

Ledwell Crash Truck - MASH Certified

In today’s world, where road safety is a high priority, innovative solutions continually evolve to protect construction site workers and the drivers who share the road.

Among these solutions, Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMAs) have become essential for safeguarding lives during roadwork and maintenance activities.

Ledwell Crash Truck - MASH Certified

Ledwell understands that one size does not fit all when it comes to equipment. Known for working closely with customers to build and customize equipment to keep business rolling – TMAs are no different.

Also called Crash Trucks, these units are tailored to meet specific requirements for customers and abide by state laws. They meet the highest safety standards, being MASH certified for optimal protection during collisions on the road or on-site.

These TMAs have many features to enhance operational efficiency, including a cone seat with a safety gate, a work light package, and a full-function wireless remote. Even the most minor details matter. Ledwell customized crash trucks feature yellow removable stake sides, non-slip protective surface coating on the bed, and an arrow board – all crucial in improving equipment visibility.

Cone Seat on Ledwell Truck Mounted Attenuator
Crash Truck Scorpion Attenuator on Ledwell TMA

For a more custom solution, various options, such as a 25-light arrow board, ballast box, solar charging kit, and multi-view camera system, are available to meet specific operational needs.

Ledwell understands there’s no room for compromise when you prioritize road safety. Our customized crash trucks are the perfect solution for your operations.

If you’re looking to improve your performance, contact our experts today and learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.

Mike Hensarling

After serving in the Navy and learning to be a machinist, Mike Hensarling made his way to Ledwell in 2006, where he began in the Machine Shop and now serves as Foreman.

Over the years, he has worked on numerous machines, but one of his favorites involved working with one of the HAAS Mills. “We use that machine for valve bodies, air cylinders, and other pneumatic parts,” Mike said. The machine’s versatility allowed him to teach others and ensure that every project had the right tool for the job.

For Mike, he takes pride in working at Ledwell. He stated, “It’s the sense of family, a characteristic that makes us different from the corporate world.”

In the fast-paced manufacturing world, the most important lesson he has learned is patience. Not everything moves at “Mike Speed,” and adapting to different timelines is critical.

Inspiration comes from various people in his life. Steve Ledwell consistently amazes him with the right answers at the right time. Beyond work, Mike finds inspiration in his wife of 14 years, Candace.

Beyond the shop floor, Mike collects knives and guns and is a devoted family man. With two kids, a daughter and son, who works in the Ledwell Robotics Department, nine grandkids, and four cats, family is at the heart of his life.

Mike brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the Ledwell team. His commitment to excellence defines the Ledwell spirit.

Chris Osborne

Employee Spotlight - Chris

In Ledwell’s Feedbody shop, Chris Osborne is a seasoned craftsman. Since 2014, he’s been hands-on, welding parts and assembling bulk feed trailers from start to finish. Chris takes pride in building a beautiful and functional product.

Chris’s dedication isn’t just about getting the job done – it’s about tackling challenges, especially the unusual ones. He enjoys an opportunity to solve a problem.

Employee Spotlight - Chris Osborne

“We value his leadership in the shop,” Ryan Whitehead, Feedbody Supervisor, said, “Chris is a hard worker and takes pride in his work.”

Beyond welding, Chris has mastered a skill not listed in any manual – patience. He says, “I’ve learned the value of staying calm under pressure.”

Chris embodies determination and resolve, setting an example in the Feedbody shop and with his family. Married to Chelsey, they have two lively girls, ages eight and six. Chris is an avid hunter and fisherman and takes on every outdoor challenge except for ducks – as he explains: “I’m just not a fan.”

Each weld on Chris Osborne’s projects tells a story, and his story is one of purpose, craftsmanship, and family.

Luis Rojas

Employee Spotlight - Luis Rojas

At Ledwell, we’re all about celebrating the grit and grind of our team. Today, we’re spotlighting Luis Rojas, who has been a part of Ledwell since 2011. 

Luis works in the Paint department, where he’s been making our equipment look flawless for over a decade. Since the beginning of his Ledwell career, he’s been working his magic with precision. He enjoys painting all types of equipment that come through the department.

His favorite piece of equipment to paint? Trailers. He takes pride in making these enormous beasts of the road shine. His attention to detail and passion for his work are evident in every trailer he works on.

When asked about the most challenging part of his job, Luis emphasized the importance of taping. It’s a task that demands time and precision to ensure the paint stays intact where it shouldn’t. Luis knows the significance of meticulous work, and he doesn’t compromise on quality.

Outside of work, Luis enjoys spending quality time with his family. He’s a father of three sons, and together with his wife, Betty, they love to go on family bike rides. It’s a fantastic way for the Rojas family to bond and enjoy the outdoors.

Before joining Ledwell, Luis worked as a valet driver, a job he found interesting. “I enjoyed driving all the different types of cars,” he recalls. This experience undoubtedly shaped his work ethic and attention to detail, which he now brings to his position at Ledwell.

Through the years, Luis learned a lesson you can’t pick up from any manual: “To get something good, you’ve got to put in 100%.” This isn’t just about his job; it’s the life philosophy he lives by. His kids are his driving force, inspiring him to be a better person and set the bar high – a spirit that runs through everything he does at Ledwell.

Luis Rojas is not just an employee at Ledwell; he’s an essential part of our family. His unwavering commitment to quality and his passion for painting make Ledwell equipment stand out. We’re proud to have him on our team, and we can’t wait to see the bright future he continues to paint for us. Thank you, Luis, for your hard work and dedication!

Luis Rojas - Ledwell Employee Spotlight
Employee Spotlight - Luis Rojas
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