AUGUSTA, GA (July, 2008) – At facilities across the nation, utility vehicles are being pushed to their limits to help get more work done faster. Whether used in groundskeeping, security, maintenance or other departments, these task-oriented vehicles need to be designed to work like they should, all the time.
As with any vehicle, facilities managers may see increases in vehicle maintenance and repair requests during times of heavy use. Luckily, keeping a set of simple maintenance guidelines in mind can help prevent many problems before they even start.
“Regular maintenance is key in keeping your utility vehicle running at an optimum performance level,” said Daniel Harris, Club Car Technical Trainer. “But, if the owner finds maintenance a hassle, they won’t perform the minor steps and it’s only a matter of time before the vehicle ends up in the service shop.”
To maximize their vehicle’s performance and overall productivity, Harris urges facilities managers to prep all members of their staff to take the time for these simple tips and tricks:
• Walk Around: Taking a quick stroll around the perimeter of the vehicle will help users notice any components that may have buildup or weakness forming. Looking for normal wear and tear is an important part of keeping a utility vehicle in tip-top condition.
• Battery Cleaning: For better performance and battery endurance, keep batteries watered and tops clean. A mixture of 1 cup of baking soda and 1 gallon of water make for a great cleaning solution. Be sure to dry the tops of batteries with a clean cloth.
• Charging Electric Models: At the end of the day, plug the vehicle into its charger until it will be used again. This will help prevent batteries from self-discharge.
• Amp Meter on Electric Models: Make sure the charger’s amp meter comes on after plugging the cord into its receptacle. This will help ensure best performance from a properly charged battery.
• Tire Monitoring: In addition to having the right tires for usage, users should make sure tires are properly inflated and have good tread. Keeping tire pressures at recommended levels will help prevent increased amp draw on batteries.
• Draining a Battery: Never run an electric vehicle until it stops. This will greatly reduce battery longevity and can permanently damage its batteries.
• Dusty Environments: In any vehicle, particles can collect on filters, clog the air intake system, and choke an engine. Users should check and switch air filters, and remove any buildup from interior and exterior vehicle components.
• Heat Waves: In hot weather, vehicles can use lubricants quickly. Users should check lubricants during hot weather, especially after the vehicle is used for heavy duty hauling or towing jobs.
• Load Capacity: Vehicles may be overloaded when users are working extended hours or are in a hurry. Keeping weight specs in mind will help avoid future problems.
• Fluid Changes: Club Car recommends a fluid change annually or once every 100 hours for Carryall vehicles. The most important thing to remember is the mixture of water vs. antifreeze/coolant: 45% water to 55% propylene glycol.
• Corrosion: Corrosive materials such as fertilizers or road salt can compromise components of any vehicle. If users keep an eye out for areas where corrosion begins, application of a silicone-water dispersant can stop the problem in its tracks and prevent additional damage.
Users should always refer to the Preventive Maintenance section of the owner’s manual for their vehicle. The manual provides advice and recommendations to keep vehicles in top condition.
To learn more, please contact us or visit: www.clubcar.com.
About Club Car:
Club Car manufactures a wide range of electric- and gasoline-powered vehicles for the golf, utility, transportation, private owner and rough terrain markets. Based in Augusta, Ga., Club Car is part of Ingersoll Rand, a global diversified firm providing products, services and solutions to enhance the quality and comfort of air in homes and buildings, transport and protect food and perishables, secure homes and commercial properties, and increase industrial productivity and efficiency. Driven by a 100-year-old tradition of technological innovation, we enable our customers to create progress and a positive impact in their world. For more information, visit www.ingersollrand.com.