Whether you have Kubota tractors, Polaris ATVs, or Stihl chainsaws, having your machinery regularly serviced from the start can help ward off major breakdowns down the road. These tough machines deserve the best care for optimal performance whenever you need them. Here are five best practices to protect your investment through consistent service and repair.

1. Routine servicing keeps equipment running smoothly

A lubricated engine keeps machinery in top condition. New air filters protect mechanisms from working overtime to achieve the same result. Replacing hoses stops leaks resulting in increased fluid usage. Another massive benefit to regular service is the morale boost that comes with confidence in operating well-kept equipment.  

It's no secret that wringing every drop of efficiency out of equipment is crucial to profitability. That goes for all types of machinery with components that sustain wear and tear, including gaskets, bearings, seals, and spark plugs. Outdoor equipment that is routinely serviced is less likely to break down leading to increased uptime, working hours, and fewer repair costs.

2. Regularly scheduled maintenance helps catch issues early

Routine maintenance helps predict when failure is likely to occur, allowing you to find a solution to problems before they happen, such as replacing a drive belt before it snaps. Without regularly scheduled service appointments, you’ll find the usage life of your machinery dropping, efficiency declining, and productivity failing.

Having your coolant, oil, fuel, and other fluid levels checked routinely can identify a leak that must be repaired. It’s also important to schedule when a tool should be recalibrated by professionals who offer those services to preserve precision. Periodic tire servicing can safeguard you from severe damage by monitoring air pressure, measuring tread depth, and visual inspections.

3. A little TLC prevents costly repairs and replacements

Would you rather have a professional routinely change the air filter on your tractor or spend thousands on replacing the engine? Effective preventative maintenance can save you from these kinds of costly repairs and what ends up being very expensive downtime. 

The two most complex and pricey components in outdoor power equipment are generally the engine and the transmission. Repairing either of these parts is very expensive, so it’s critical they are well-maintained, checked, and serviced regularly. And a few of the most common causes of poor hydraulic performance are clogged filters, high fluid temperature, and incorrect fluids. The best thing you can do is change the oil and oil filters during manufacturer-recommended tune-ups with trained professionals. 

4. Implement daily maintenance routines

Another strategy for extending the life of your rugged power tools is taking daily service into your own hands. For example, daily dusting removes dirt that could end up in your gears or start corroding your electrical system. Regular maintenance should also lessen the time and costs associated with servicing and repairs from technicians. Here’s where to start in terms of upkeep:

• Lubricate equipment after each use

• Inspect belts, blades, and other moving parts for damage or wear

• Tighten all screws and bolts to prevent malfunctioning

• Drain fuel from the tank if you’re not going to use the equipment for awhile

• Store your equipment in a dry place with plenty of ventilation

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and servicing your equipment

5. Use authorized parts and dealers for repairs and servicing

An authorized dealer is any store or business that sells high-quality, brand-name Powersports equipment, landscaping equipment, or construction equipment in partnership with the manufacturer. The technicians at an authorized dealer are educated and trained in the proper way to maintain machinery sold at the dealership. Powersports Company is an authorized dealer for the brands we offer, including Honda, Polaris, Scag, Kubota, and more.

The point of maintenance is to extend the life of your equipment. That’s why you don’t want anything less than the quality of genuine manufacturer replacement parts. Since authorized dealers are constantly in contact with manufacturers, it makes sense that many of them carry genuine parts. Typically, the most frequently requested parts will be on hand, so you won't have to wait for the dealer to order the component. This saves time and gets you back to work and leisure quickly. 

Ready to Pinpoint the Maintenance You Need?

Whether you currently have equipment that requires servicing or you’re in the market for new machinery, Powersports Company can help. We carry all the top brands in Powersports, ATV/UTV, construction, and landscaping equipment at a competitive price. Visit our showroom in Bever Dam, WI, call, or schedule a service appointment so you can enjoy your power tools and vehicles well into the future…and have a lot of fun along the way!