How to Maintain Your Loading Dock Levellers

Loading dock levellers are essential for smooth and safe loading and unloading of goods. However, they also require regular maintenance to prevent malfunctions, accidents, and costly repairs. In this post, we will share some tips on how to keep your loading dock levellers in peak working order and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

 

What are loading dock levellers?

Loading dock levellers are devices that bridge the gap between the loading dock and the truck bed. They allow forklifts and other equipment to move goods easily and safely across different heights and angles. Loading dock levellers come in different types, such as mechanical, hydraulic, air-powered, and edge-of-dock.

 

Why is loading dock leveller maintenance important?

Loading dock leveller maintenance is important for several reasons. First, it ensures the safety of your workers and your goods. A faulty or damaged leveller can cause injuries, falls, spills, or damage to your products. Second, it extends the lifespan of your leveller and reduces the need for repairs or replacements. A well-maintained leveller will perform better and last longer than a neglected one. Third, it saves you money and time. A broken or malfunctioning leveller can disrupt your operations, cause delays, or incur fines or penalties. By keeping your leveller in good condition, you can avoid these hassles and costs.

 

How to maintain your loading dock leveller?

Daily Checks

Before you start using your loading dock levellers, you should perform some basic checks every day to ensure they are functioning properly. These include:

1. Inspecting the leveller surface for any cracks, dents, or signs of wear and tear.
2. Checking the hinges, pins, and welds for any damage or corrosion.
3. Testing the hydraulic or mechanical system for any leaks or noises.
4. Lubricating the moving parts as needed, making sure to use proper lubricants for all parts.
5. Cleaning the leveller surface and removing any debris or dirt.

If you notice any issues or problems with your loading dock levellers, you should contact a professional service provider as soon as possible to avoid further damage or injury.

Every 90 days, perform a more thorough inspection of your leveller:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Start by cleaning the pit area; inspect all lip out mechanisms (pins, lip crank, links, chains and shackles) and replace any that look worn.
                     2. Lubricate the leveler with the proper lubricants in all appropriate locations.
                     3. Inspect all weather seals (if installed) and replace if worn or damaged.
                     4. Inspect dock bumpers. 10cm of bumper protection is required. Worn, torn, loose or missing bumpers must be replaced.
                     5. Check the condition of concrete, angles and welds. Repair or replace if necessary.
                     6. Inspect structure, hinge pins, clevis pins and cotter pins for abnormal wear and tear.

Additional Steps for Mechanical Levellers

Mechanical levellers use a spring-loaded system to raise and lower the leveller platform. To maintain them, you should:

1. Adjust the springs and hold-down mechanism every six months to ensure proper operation.
2. Schedule a professional inspection and service at least once a year to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

Additional Steps for Hydraulic Levellers

Air or Hydraulic Levellers use a fluid-powered system to raise and lower the leveller platform. To maintain them, you should:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Every month with the leveler supported by the maintenance strut, inspect the air tower for damage. For hydraulic levelers, check the hydraulic fluid level in the tank, and add fluid if necessary.
                     2. Inspect all conduit boxes, control boxes and electrical connections for damage. Inspect the hydraulic system (cylinders, hoses, fittings, and power units). Repair or replace if worn or damaged.
                     3. Make sure to check the control box for any evidence of condensation.
                     4. In addition, every 360 days, make sure to check and tighten the control box mounting hardware on either air or hydraulic-powered units. Re-torque all shoulder bolts on units equipped with Safe-T-Lip.
                     5. Schedule a professional inspection and service at least once a year to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

At Ulti Group, we offer a wide range of loading dock equipment and services to suit your needs. Whether you need a new loading dock leveller, a repair, or a maintenance plan, we have you covered. We have over 25 years of experience in the industry and we are committed to providing quality products and exceptional customer service. Reach out for a FREE site survey of your facility: