Top 10 Equipment Maintenance Tips

Having properly running equipment saves you both time and money. With some regular maintenance you can prevent larger problems from occuring and help your equipment to last longer. Randy Chase, Vice President of EMack Manufacturing, shared some of the best ways to keep your equipment in good running order.

1) Clean and inspect the sander after every job. Worn or damaged parts will cause chatter. Clear away any accumulated dust, finish, and grit. Visually inspect all moving parts for excessive play, wear or damage.

2) Inspect and clean the sanding drum on split-drum or belt sanders before attaching the sandpaper. Dust and debris on the drum will cause chatter marks. Gouged, grooved, or badly damaged drum surfaces should be replaced. To prolong the life of a sanding drum, release the tension on the sandpaper or belt after every job. Leave the sandpaper on the drum to protect the drum surface in transport.

3) Inspect wheels before the start of each job. Debris on the wheels can be left on the floor and cause chatter, wave and damage. During transportation, lift the machine over transitions, stones, and rough areas. Clean wheels after each grit or cut. Excess grit can build up on the wheels and cause the machine to cut unevenly. Keep the machine's weight off the wheels during storage. This prevents flat spots and prolongs wheel life. 

4) Check drive belts often. The best way to check drive belts is by hand. If the belt feels rough, cupped, worn or grooved, it needs to be replaced. Belts left under tension when not in use can take on a hump in the shape of the pulleys. This will cause the belt to "hop" over the pulley during operation causeing chatter.

5) Inspect the upper roller before each job. Debris such as finish or filler on the upper roller can cause tracking issues and chatter. 

6) To clean a dust bag, it should be turned inside out and shaken vigorously. Blow out or vacuum frequently, and if recommended by the manufacturer, machine wash in cold water. This prevents pore blockage and loss of dust control. Empty dust bags when half full. Never leave a dust bag unattended. Sanding dust can combust and cause injury or damage.

7) Inspect motor brushes monthly. Electric motor brushes are the pathways for electric current. Worn brushes will cause heat, arcing, and sparks. The brush spring keeps pressure on the brush top to prevent arcing and premature armature wear. Change all motor brushes at the same time.

8) Inspect and clean edger pads before every job. Bent or unbalanced edger pads will cause gouging. Worn or mis-adjusted edger pads will also result in uneven sanding.

9) Inspect Ryder Cart wheels before every job for debris or flat spots. Keep all fluids topped off. Store the Ryder Cart on blocks to prolong the life of the wheels.

10) Consider a yearly service contract for your equipment. Regular maintenance in the off-season can help prevent down time when busy. 

If you need service for your equipment or would like to speak with one of our specialists please contact us here.

If you would like to download the PDF of these tips please click here.