Regardless of intentions, the majority of companies we talk to each week report that proper daily lubrication is a constant, daily struggle. Technicians and operators have lots of disincentives from fully greasing every point in a timely manner. With 70% of all pin and bushing failures occurring from a lack of grease, this statistic is both expensive and highly inconvenient. It is very likely you’ve heard at least a few of them. Some of these include:
- Adverse weather conditions. Mud, material, slush, or ice buildup, and environmental conditions can make greasing unpleasant, particularly with the grease points located in places that tend to attract buildup or require access from below the truck or behind a steer wheel.
- Inconvenient, unsafe, or hard-to-reach greasing locations. To access and grease some points may require a ladder, or turning a truck steer tire out of the way, or necessitate a creeper trolley.
- Logistical issues can also act as barriers to proper greasing, too. For instance, supply truck availability in the field or shop lubrication equipment location’s relative convenience.
- The quantity of lubrication points on the equipment can make greasing a time-consuming process, resulting in a prioritization of certain points over others.
- Make & model grease point configurations. With so many different pieces of equipment and even the variations of those models and development over the years, potential for overlooking a grease point due to the unique configuration of grease points on each piece of equipment can be expected.
- Production demands. When the season demands it, intervals between greasing opportunities become few and far-between to maximize the use of the equipment as production demands.
- Multi-step greasing. Some grease points need to be lubricated with the joint in more than one position to ensure evenly distributed lubricants and protect components under heavy loads. Starting and moving equipment to achieve this end add to the hassle and reduces the likelihood it will be done properly.
- Manpower availability for greasing is a universal struggle for businesses, particularly for qualified mechanics, technicians, and operators.
- Finally, and most importantly, there are a constant parade of other priorities or critical projects that always seem to supersede this seemingly mundane task.
It’s very likely that you have heard at least a few of these (Though, perhaps not that the dog ate your grease gun!). By installing an auto grease system, you can protect your time, equipment, employees, and bottom line. It makes too much sense - call or email us today for a no-obligation quote. We promise you’ll like what you see!