Key Takeaways
On a busy construction site, reliable lighting isn’t just a convenience—it is a safety necessity. Whether you are working through the night or operating during short winter days, a malfunctioning light tower can bring operations to a grinding halt.
While renting from Stallion Infrastructure Services ensures you receive equipment in peak condition, maintaining that equipment while it is on your jobsite is critical for performance and safety. We have compiled a comprehensive maintenance checklist to help you keep your lights on and your crew safe.
Create a Routine Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance needs can shift depending on the season and severe weather patterns, but consistency is key. We recommend adding a recurring event to your calendar—every few weeks or once a month—to inspect your machinery.
The Essential Maintenance Checklist:
- Fluids: Change the engine oil and replace the oil filter on a regular schedule (consult the manufacturer's manual for hour intervals).
- Fuel System: Inspect and change fuel filters to prevent engine sputtering or failure.
- Air Intake: Check the air filter for dust and clogging, especially on dry, dirt-heavy jobsites.
- Cooling System: Inspect the radiator for debris build-up and check for any visible coolant leaks.
- Visual Inspection: Walk around the unit to look for loose bolts, frayed wires, or body damage.
Safety Protocols for Transport and Setup
Light towers are deceptive; they look slender, but they can weigh as much as 2,000 pounds. Moving them requires respect for the machine and strict adherence to safety protocols.
Transporting the Tower:
- Power Down: Always turn off the light tower before shutting down the engine completely.
- Protect the Bulbs: Ensure the mast is fully retracted and locked, and the bulbs are oriented correctly to prevent shattering during movement.
- Use Proper Machinery: Never attempt to move a tower by hand on uneven terrain. Ensure your crew is wearing proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and using the correct towing vehicles.
Positioning on the Jobsite:
Before extending the mast, survey the area for overhead obstructions. Look for:
- Tall trees or heavy branches.
- Cranes and moving machinery.
- Overhead power lines or adjacent buildings.
If not planned accordingly, an extended mast can crash into obstructions, causing expensive damage to the bulbs and creating severe safety hazards for your team.
Weatherproofing and Seasonal Care
Your equipment faces the elements so your crew doesn’t have to work in the dark. However, temperature changes can wreak havoc on engines and hydraulics if not managed correctly.
- Cleanliness is Key: Thoroughly clean the equipment after heavy weather events (storms, snow) or long-term use. A radiator or air cleaner clogged with mud will overheat the engine.
- Seasonal Coolant Checks: Check the composition of your coolant in the Spring and prior to Winter. This ensures the engine block won't crack in freezing temperatures or overheat in the summer sun.
- Ventilation: Position the unit in a well-ventilated area. This helps the machine run cooler, reduces the accumulation of soot, and ultimately eases your maintenance burden.
Need Reliable Lighting for Your Next Project?
At Stallion, we ensure that proper care and precautions are taken when delivering and installing our equipment. If you need help calculating your power and lighting needs or selecting the right tower for your site, our team is ready to help.
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See how Stallion Power & Lighting Solutions fits in your budget. Contact sales at (866) 225-5747 or request a quote.