Though it can be hard to slow down operations, a mid-season maintenance check is often the difference between smooth operations and costly downtime. Summer is the busiest time of year on the jobsite — and your equipment is working harder than ever. Whether you're running compact machines or heavy-duty equipment, peak season use means more stress on engines, hydraulics, and key components.
Leslie Equipment Company regularly maintains hundreds of machines, so we know firsthand that preventative care is the key to performance and profitability. Here’s a quick checklist to help keep your fleet in peak condition as the summer pushes on.
1. Clean Cooling Systems
Overheating is one of the most common issues during peak summer use. Inspect radiators and coolers for clogs caused by dust or debris, and gently blow out fins with compressed air. Never use high-pressure washers, which can damage delicate components.
2. Check Fluids and Top Off
High heat and heavy use cause fluids to break down faster. So, engine oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid, and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) should all be checked regularly.Watch for signs of contamination, leaks, or low levels, and always use manufacturer-approved products when topping off.
3. Test Battery Health
Hot weather can be just as hard on batteries as cold weather can. Check for corrosion, test voltage output, and ensure batteries are securely mounted. A weak battery can sideline a machine when you need it most.
4. Grease All Fiitings
Lubrication reduces friction and extends the life of moving parts. To help prevent wear and tearn on your machines, use the right grease and follow a consistent schedule. Don't forget often-overlooked fittings on loader arms, cylinders, and quick couplers — they're just as critical.
5. Inspect and Replace Filters
Dust, dirt, and debris are unavoidable, especially on dry, hot sites. That’s why it’s important in the summertime to check all filters and replace them according to the manufacturer's schedules. Making sure your air, fuel, and hydraulic filters are clean will increase efficiency and keep your equipment running smoothly in the long term.
6. Inspect Tires, Tracks, & Undercarriages
Whether it’s soft mud or sharp gravel, summer ground conditions are tough on your equipment’s contact points. Make sure to look for uneven wear, damage, or loose track tension. Proper track or tire maintenance improves traction, safety, and fuel efficiency — keeping your machines productive longer.
7. Run a Full System Diagnostic
If your machine is equipped with onboard diagnostics (like John Deere’s JDLink™), put them to work. Monitoring performance, fuel use, and service alerts helps you stay proactive and catch small issues before they grow into bigger and costly problems.
8. Review Operator Logs & Feedback
Your operators are your first line of defense. Encourage them to report performance issues, unusual sounds, or warning lights early. Their feedback often points to problems you can fix before they become major repairs.
Keep Your Fleet Working Smarter, Not Harder
Are you struggling to go through your mid-season maintenance checklist? Our certified technicians are happy to help you prepare for the rest of the season.
Our techs aren’t just available when things are going wrong. In fact, we have full-time employees dedicated to watching for and scheduling maintenance on time. We often send our techs to do a complete maintenance sweep. And if you’re not tech-savvy, our Tech Center can help you track your machine using software like JD Link.
Don't wait for a breakdown. Let's get ahead of it.
Visit LEC1.com or contact your local branch today to schedule summer service or stock up on the parts your crew needs.
Leslie Equipment Company - Built for the work ahead.