When you break down and the panic starts to settle in, knowing that you are prepared for this moment is critical. When most contractors breakdown, they have to go get the parts they need. But, if you have them, you can restore your machine and get back to work quickly.
Let’s go over what Cat parts are important to have on hand.
A core parts checklist is a small set of parts that you keep with you that you would need if your machine broke down. A good rule of thumb is to follow the 90% rule — a small set of parts that cover a large majority of breakdowns and repairs.
Just by doing a little bit of preparation, you can stay ahead of breakdowns and get rid of a little bit of stress. The cost of downtime greatly outweighs the cost of stocking a few common wear items. Use a parts reference guide to make yourself a checklist that will have your back. Unsure of what you need? Call a Yancey location near you, and we can make a Cat parts checklist for you.
Engine oil filters remove impurities before they cause a problem. If you continue to go beyond your machine’s interval for an engine oil filter, you open up the possibility of circulating contaminants through the engine. Your Cat parts checklist should always contain your machine’s engine oil filters and air filters.
Air filters protect from intaking dust and dirt while it is constantly flying around. Other filters that are good to keep in mind are fuel filters, water separators, and hydraulic and cabin filters. Keep a quick-reference table with you that shows the filter type, function, and service interval so you can keep your machines up to date and ready to work.
If you notice your machine has a slow crank, you feel corrosion, or notice a low CCA, these are all likely signs that your battery is nearing its end of life. This is when stocking one spare battery per machine class or per-fleet spares come in handy.
When choosing a battery, it’s important to think about power, size, voltage, and its CCA rating.
Helpful Cat maintenance parts to stock also include replacement belts, hoses, seals, cutting edges, and teeth. These parts belong in a jobsite kit or on your checklist to purchase so you have what you need when you need it.
It’s important to know visual cues that indicate a part is near a breakdown. These cues include cracking, fraying, excess fluid, or exposure of pieces. Remember these common wear items in your repair inventory:
Getting the right parts on your shelf isn’t hard and will save you a headache later. When making your Cat parts checklist, start with filters and batteries and then focus on belts, hoses, and other wear items.
Unsure of what you should keep on hand? Request a stocking list or visit a Yancey Bros. parts counter near you.
