Vibratory rollers have it tough - they’re often the most neglected pieces of equipment in a fleet. Lucky Wacker Neuson rollers are built to withstand pretty much anything you can throw at them!
However, as tough and robust as they are, lack of attention to your Wacker roller’s condition may force it into early retirement – costing you thousands.
These five simple tips can double the life expectancy of your machine. And they don’t just apply to rollers – follow these principles and you’ll extend the life of any piece of equipment used in construction, civil or mining applications.
1. A clean Wacker Neuson roller is a happy one
The storage and cleaning of equipment when not in use is the area most often overlooked by busy contractors all around the world. Keeping equipment clean is more about longevity than aesthetics.
Cleaning your Wacker Neuson roller after use to ensure it is free from mud, grease, asphalt, concrete and dirt will help prevent erosion & wear, which inevitably wears down parts overtime. Dirt and debris clogs air filters, Drives, motors & other moving parts when it works its way into moving parts and destroys seals.
If your Wacker Neuson tandem roller is not going to be used for 30 days or more, remove all water from the sprinkler tanks and blow the water lines out with compressed air. For all Wacker Neuson rollers, ensure the engine and the engine compartment are both clean.
In the cooler months, you can also remove fuel from the tanks or ensure there is an additive in the fuel. It’s also good practice to do an oil change prior to storage, as contaminates collected during operation can cause corrosion when left idle for long periods of time.
Keep your Wacker Neuson roller out of the elements when not in use. Use a cover or store the machine out of the weather if possible, particularly during longer periods. By regularly giving your Wacker Neuson roller a light wipe down you can reduce the risk of rust in welds and on bolts.
2. Keep operator and service training up to date
It’s well known that a machine is only as good as its operator. And that has never been truer than with your Wacker Neuson roller.
Operators not only need to understand how to use equipment within requirements but also what to look (and perhaps more importantly, listen) out for to notice minor issues before they become large ones. Quite often it’s the little noises that hint at bigger wear issues before they can be noticed during serving and inspections.
Ensure your service staff are also well-trained and are kept up to date with new technology, practices and diagnosis methods.
And don’t forget to educate your transport service providers and drivers as well.
If your roller isn’t secured for transport correctly – for example, if the chains have been overtightened – you will be putting an enormous amount of pressure on the drum rubbers which could lead to a costly repair.
3. Ensure regular service and maintenance
It almost goes without saying, however it is vital that you keep on top of your Wacker Neuson roller servicing to ensure maximum uptime. Service the machine at regular intervals and ensure preventative maintenance is undertaken when the need arises.
Always follow the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) instructions that come with your Wacker Neuson roller. This will provide you with:
Safe operating procedures and equipment required
- General maintenance instructions
- Information on auxiliary equipment
- Use and function of padfoot shells (where fitted)
- Information on the machine & weights
- Electrical, steering, transmission and hydraulic systems
- Operation
- Vibration and oscillation
Your Wacker Neuson roller has a list of areas that will need to be inspected at regular intervals – in some instances daily. These include engine oil and coolant levels, water and hydraulic fluids.
Inspect the roller on a daily basis prior to operation for any loose fittings and minor leaks, and check its grease points, breathers and belts. By checking for wear and tear on your Wacker Neuson roller you’ll notice a problem before it turns into a failure. This ensures you have time to order a replacement part, avoiding a lengthy downtime.
Check fluid levels frequently. Always use the prescribed fluids and lubricants in the operation manual and replace when needed, ensuring the levels are accurate. This will reduce expensive repairs and lost productivity whilst also reducing wear and tear on moving parts in the long run.
4. Use technology to catch issues before they happen
You can drastically improve the way you manage the workload of your Wacker Neuson roller through advancements in telematics.
GPS telematics can help with location and movements whilst also providing real-time knowledge which can help predict which parts will need maintenance and when.
Keep your Wacker Neuson roller operating at peak performance by ensuring all service and repairs are documented.
By completing daily regular walk-around inspections utilising a maintenance checklist and storing them electronically, you’ll pick up any recurring issues and other abnormalities.
5. Go for good-quality parts and consumables
You only get out what you put in – so don’t give your Wacker Neuson roller a dodgy diet. When it comes to parts and consumables, we always recommend going for the best option you can afford.
Go for parts made by the original manufacturer when you can, but when budget or availability is an issue, look for parts retailers that go the extra mile to curate a selection of parts and consumables that can do the job for every budget.
Why is it so crucial you look after your Wacker Neuson roller?
The benefits of looking after your Wacker Neuson roller go beyond simply extending its lifespan.
Taking the time and care to stay ahead on maintenance will help you get more out of your purchase, optimise its operability during peak times and reduce the likelihood of costly breakdown. Best of all, it will help with the resale value in years to come when you’re ready to jump into a new Wacker Neuson roller.
Need to book your Wacker Neuson roller in for a service? Our experts all across Australia are ready to help you keep your roller in tip top condition. Click here to find out more and book a service.
