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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.

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.

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.

Shining a Light on Manufacturing Day: Ledwell’s Commitment to Inspiring Future Innovators

Panel of manufacturing industry leaders in Texarkana

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

The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce selected Ledwell to host a panel of local professionals from six manufacturing facilities for 60 students from four local high schools: Arkansas, Liberty-Eylau, Premiere, and Redwater. This event exemplifies the commitment of local businesses to invest in the future workforce and promote careers in manufacturing.

Panel of manufacturing industry leaders in Texarkana

The panel of local professionals represented the diverse careers available within manufacturing. Hailing from six different manufacturing facilities in Texarkana, they shared their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments, offering valuable insights to the eager young minds in attendance. From journeymen and foremen to human resources and owners, the panel embodied diverse opportunities in manufacturing.

The panel discussion was an informative experience for the attending students. They discovered diverse career paths, made real-world connections, and gained insight into the skills and qualifications needed for manufacturing careers.

Manufacturing Day is not just another date on the calendar. It’s a day to celebrate innovation, technology, and the people who drive the manufacturing industry forward.

As we look to the future, let’s continue to invest in our youth and nurture their passion for manufacturing, ensuring a bright and innovative future for this vital sector.

Manufacturing Plant tour at Ledwell
Manufacturing Tour with local students at Ledwell

Why Manufacturing Day is important:

Raising Awareness:

Manufacturing Day creates awareness about the manufacturing sector’s importance to the economy, job creation, and technological advancements.

 

Changing Perceptions:

It helps change the outdated perception of manufacturing careers by showcasing modern facilities, cutting-edge technology, and diverse job roles.

 

Inspiring the Youth:

It inspires young students to consider careers in manufacturing by exposing them to real-life success stories and role models.

Ledwell hosts Manufacturing Week student tour

Maximize Your Savings: Understanding Section 179

Maximize tax deductions with Section 179

Section 179 of the IRS tax code simplifies the process of encouraging businesses to invest in equipment and themselves.

To help explain its mechanics, benefits, limitations, and eligibility criteria, we’re sharing the top takeaways from the ever-changing tax deduction.

Previously, businesses depreciated qualifying equipment over time. For instance, a $50,000 machine might result in a $10,000 deduction annually for five years.

Now, Section 179 lets businesses deduct the entire purchase price of eligible commercial medium and heavy-duty equipment in the current tax year.

This deduction has significantly impacted companies and the economy. It allows businesses to invest in needed equipment immediately instead of waiting. Small businesses can write off up to $1,160,000 of qualifying equipment costs on their 2023 tax return.

Section 179 available on Ledwell Equipment

Section 179 has limits: $2,890,000 for equipment purchases and $1,160,000 for deductions. The deduction gradually diminishes after $2,890,000 is spent, disappearing entirely at $4,050,000 in purchases, making it ideal for small and medium-sized businesses.

To qualify for the deduction, any business purchasing, financing, or leasing new or used equipment in 2023, provided their spending remains below $4,050,000, and the equipment must be placed into service between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023.

Bonus depreciation remains an option; however, it differs from Section 179 by being variable, standing at 80% for 2023. Large businesses exceeding the $2,890,000 spending cap benefit from Bonus Depreciation.

Equipment must be used for business purposes over 50% of the time to qualify for the Section 179 Deduction. Multiply the equipment cost by the business use percentage to calculate the eligible amount for Section 179.

To fully leverage this tax deduction and its benefits for your business, we highly recommend reviewing Section 179 at a Glance.

Paving the Road to Driving for a Living: When Do You Need a CDL

When a CDL is required to operate equipment

The United States economy depends on truckers to do more than just get from Point A to Point B in a safe manner. Truckers are essential to anything from keeping grocery store shelves stocked to completing construction and infrastructure projects. Because trucks are everywhere, so are employment opportunities. The only requirement is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Drivers can obtain three basic classifications. What additional endorsements you may need depends on what items are being transported. These endorsements are subject to additional testing. The more specialized, the more money a driver could potentially earn.

Drive a Ledwell Hydraulic Tail Truck with a Class B CDL

The Texas Department of Public Safety defines the CDL types as:

Class A 

A Class A CDL enables the holder to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the weight rating of the towed vehicles is more than 10,000 pounds. This type of license is mandatory for driving heavy-duty equipment such as single-axle dump trucks with attached trailers, heavy-duty tractors with hydraulic tail trailers, and bulk feed trailers.

 

Class B 

A Class B CDL allows the holder to operate a single vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more or tow a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds GVWR. Additionally, it permits the operation of any vehicle intended for the transportation of 24 or more passengers, including the driver. However, if the skills test is completed in a bus weighing less than 26,001 pounds GVWR, the license holder will be restricted to operating buses under that weight. This license type is necessary for operating medium and heavy-duty trucks, such as water trucks, rollbacks, and hydraulic tail trucks.

 

Class C

A Class C CDL authorizes the holder to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not fall under the Class A or B category. This license permits the operation of vehicles designed to transport 16 to 23 passengers, including the driver or vehicles used for transporting hazardous materials that require the vehicle to be placarded. Placard equipment, such as vacuum trucks, would require a Class C CDL. Endorsements may be necessary for transporting hazardous materials.

A Commercial Driver License Permit (CLP) must be obtained and activated for at least 14 days before taking CDL skills exams.  CLPs are required of drivers applying for CDLs for the first time, upgrading their CDLs to another class, or adding passenger/school bus endorsements to their CDLs.

A driver must attend an approved Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) program to complete the initial CDL requirements.  Programs under the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) meet the required Commercial Truck Driving training guidelines.  TWC has a complete list of programs available, tuition costs, and class of vehicle covered.

While CDL grants and tuition assistance programs are available to cover training expenses, many trucking companies provide tuition reimbursement for a Class A CDL.  Therefore, having a CDL more than pays for itself; it is an investment in a career that could go anywhere.

Ultimate Solution for Portable Hydraulic Power

Portable hydraulic power unit

The Ledwell Self-Contained Unit is the perfect solution to provide portable hydraulic power.

Thanks to its powerful engine-driven pump, this innovative unit allows you to operate any Ledwell Trailer with any tractor.

Self-Contained Units reduce downtime by providing enough power to fully operate any HydraTail Trailer, even when a tractor with a wet kit is unavailable. Its portable and compact design allows the unit to fit on the top deck of any trailer with the help of a forklift to put it in place.

Power units include a pressure and return hose to make the connection seamless. It offers the flexibility to use any tractor to move your trailers without worrying about hydraulic connections.

This unit includes a compact, high-quality 18-horsepower engine with an electric start that provides reliable power to the hydraulic system.

Its impressive 15 GPM hydraulic pump ensures you can fully operate any Ledwell HydraTail Trailer, from the winch to the hydraulic tail, without needing a tractor’s PTO.

Ledwell’s Self-Contained Unit is a game-changer for those who rely on trailers to deliver equipment daily.

With this pony motor, you no longer need to worry about matching certain tractors and trailers. Its design makes it a convenient and efficient portable hydraulic power solution that moves you forward.

Fostering a Community of Growth

Ledwell hosts signing day

Ledwell takes great pride in its commitment to the growth and development of the Texarkana community. To showcase this dedication, our Education Outreach Team organized a signing day that served as a platform to welcome talented individuals who will join Ledwell this summer.

Signing Day was a special event celebrating the achievements of high school graduates pursuing a manufacturing career.

Ledwell hosts signing day for local high school students
Ledwell attends Pleasant Grove signing day

Deoriq Dixon, Xavier Nash from Atlanta High School, John Calvin, and Perry Hack from Pleasant Grove High School were among those we welcomed into the Ledwell family. These talented individuals have shown exceptional promise and dedication, making them stand out in their pursuit of a career in the industry.

The company’s innovative approach to recognizing high school graduates entering the manufacturing workforce serves as an inspiration to the next generation. The achievements of these four individuals demonstrate that success is attainable through alternative educational pathways.

The hope is that this event sends a powerful message to young individuals that they can build a fulfilling and prosperous career in manufacturing, utilizing their unique talents and skills.

Ledwell welcomes these new employees with open arms, ready to support and empower them on their journey to success.

Atlanta Texas High School Senior at Ledwell Signing Day
Atlanta High School Senior at Ledwell Signing Day
PG High School Senior at Ledwell Signing Day
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