Preventative Maintenance on the Job Site: A Guide to Lube Trucks and Lube Equipment

When it comes to field service and repair, lube trucks and other lube equipment play a critical role in keeping machinery and equipment running smoothly. This article will answer common questions about lube trucks, trailers, and skids, including their uses, types, and benefits.

What are lube trucks used for?

Construction, mining, and oil & gas industries commonly use lube trucks for on-site lube services. Lube trucks are mobile units equipped with various lubrication equipment used to lubricate heavy equipment and machinery such as engines and gearboxes. Lube trucks can also provide fueling services, making them a convenient one-stop shop for on-site maintenance. Overall, lube trucks are essential for reducing downtime, increasing equipment lifespan, and improving the efficiency of on-site operations.

How do I know if I need a lube truck?

You may need a lube truck in construction, mining, or agriculture industries that rely heavily on machinery and equipment. A lube truck investment can benefit you in the long run if your equipment requires frequent lubrication or you must constantly send equipment for servicing. Having a lube truck on-site can save valuable time and money by minimizing equipment downtime and reducing transportation costs associated with servicing equipment off-site. Overall, if you prioritize productivity and cost-effectiveness, investing in a lube truck is wise for your business.

Are there different types of lube trucks and equipment?

You can choose from different types of lube trucks based on your needs. Mobile lube trucks, customized lube trucks, and lube trailers are common options.  Mobile lube trucks, the most common type, on a truck chassis. Meanwhile, lube trailers are smaller and can be towed behind a vehicle. To meet specific industry requirements, manufacturers can design customized lube trucks and equip them with specialized equipment such as air compressors. Summit manufacturers custom lube trucks and equipment, including fuel & lube truck skids and trailers.

What is a fuel & lube truck?

Fuel and lube trucks are versatile mobile units providing lubrication and fueling services. Industries like mining and construction rely on heavy machinery and equipment, which require regular maintenance. Fuel and lube trucks offer a convenient and efficient solution for lubricating and fueling equipment on-site, reducing transportation costs and downtime. They often have larger tanks, pumps, and dispensing systems to handle heavy equipment needs. By combining fueling and lubrication services in one truck, fuel, and lube trucks can increase productivity, allowing workers to focus on their tasks without interruption.

What lube systems do I need?

The type of lube systems you need will depend on your lubrication equipment. Standard lube systems include centralized lubrication systems, automatic lubrication systems, and manual lubrication systems. Centralized lubrication systems are typically used on more extensive equipment and can distribute lubricant to multiple points from a single source. Automatic lubrication systems are designed to apply lubricant to specific points at specific intervals, while manual lubrication systems require the operator to apply lubricant manually.

How do lube systems work?

Lube systems deliver lubricant to machinery and equipment moving parts, typically using air or hydraulic pressure. The lubricant helps reduce friction, reduce wear, and tear on the equipment and improves performance and longevity. Lube systems distribute lubricant through spray nozzles, grease fittings, or oil ports, and they can be operated manually or automatically. Automatic systems apply lubricant at specific intervals, while manual systems require operators to apply lubricant.

What is the benefit of an air-operated lube system versus a hydraulic one?

Air-operated lube systems and hydraulic-operated lube systems both have their advantages and disadvantages. Air-operated systems are typically less expensive, easier to install, and require less maintenance than hydraulic systems. However, hydraulic systems are more precise and can deliver lubricant at higher pressures. Ultimately, choosing between an air-operated or hydraulic-operated lube system will depend on the specific needs.

What is a lube skid?

A compact and portable lubrication system called a lube skid mounts onto a flatbed truck or trailer. The system typically includes a pump, reservoir, filters, and dispensing equipment, and users can customize it with additional components as needed. Industries such as construction, agriculture, and oil and gas commonly utilize lube skids in remote locations to provide essential lubrication services.

What is the advantage of a lube skid?

The portability and versatility of a lube skid are its advantages. You can mount it onto a flatbed truck or trailer to transport it effortlessly to remote locations and provide lubrication services. Moreover,  customize lube skids to meet the equipment’s particular lubrication needs.

What is a lube trailer?

Lube trailers are another convenient option for on-site lubrication services in remote locations. You can tow them behind vehicles such as trucks or SUVs. They offer more flexibility than lube skids, allowing for the inclusion of other equipment, such as fuel storage, air compressors, and hydraulic systems. You can equip it with larger pumps, tanks, and dispensing systems. Tailer lube systems to meet your unique applications. Overall, lube trailers efficiently and effectively maintain heavy equipment and machinery on remote job sites.

5 Reasons to Perform Preventative Maintenance Work in the Field

Preventative maintenance at the job site can provide several benefits compared to bringing equipment to the shop. Here are a few of the key advantages:

1. Minimizes downtime:

   Taking equipment off-site for maintenance can result in significant downtime, leaving the job site without essential equipment. To avoid this, performing preventative maintenance on-site can keep the equipment operational until care is complete. This approach can minimize downtime and keep the job site running efficiently.

2. Increases equipment lifespan:

   Regular preventative maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of equipment by identifying and addressing issues before they become major problems. This can help prevent breakdowns and extend the life of the equipment.

3. Reduces repair costs:

   Preventative maintenance can also help reduce repair costs. It is vital to catch issues early on before they become major problems that require costly repairs or replacements.

4. Improves safety:

   By performing maintenance on-site, we can also improve safety by ensuring that equipment operates correctly and promptly, identifying and addressing potential safety hazards.

5. Enhances efficiency:

   Performing maintenance on-site quickly services the equipment and returns it to operation, improving job site efficiency and productivity.

Lube trucks are essential for industries that rely on heavy machinery and equipment like mining, construction, and agriculture. You can get them in different sizes and types custom-designed to cater to specific needs. Lube trucks provide on-site lubrication services, saving time and money, improving efficiency, and extending the equipment’s lifespan. Portable lubrication systems such as lube skids and trailers are ideal for remote locations. Preventative maintenance work reduces downtime and repair costs and enhances safety and efficiency. Thus, businesses should invest in lube trucks and other equipment for long-term success.