General Safety / Maintenance Information:
Users are responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of the equipment they use. Some equipment will quickly become damaged and unsafe if abused or subjected to improper demands. If equipment is regularly maintained and not abused, you will get the maximum safety and service performance from your casters.
• Do not overload equipment
• Do not drop heavy loads on carts or trucks.
• Do not drop equipment from docks or forklifts while transporting, moving or loading/unloading.
• Do not use at high speeds.
These uses create severe impact and shock loads that may lead caster, wheel and equipment failure.
Check Equipment Frames & Fasteners
Periodically turn equipment on its end or side and check the following:
• Look for broken welds or deck boards.
• Tighten loose nuts and bolts.
• Look for equipment frame distortion caused by overloads and impact loads. Distorted frames can lead to wheel failure by placing disproportionate loads on one or two casters.
• If casters are stem types, make sure that the legs of the equipment are not bent and that mounting bolts are securely fastened.
• Always use locknuts or lock washers to mount casters to equipment.
• Make certain casters with expanding adapter stems are held firmly in place in tubular equipment.
Caster & Wheel Lubrication
Caster and wheel lubrication is essential. The lubrication schedule depends on your specific application. Normal conditions may warrant lubrication every six months. However, for wet or corrosive applications, monthly lubrication may be required. Lubrication may also be required after each cart washing. Special high temperature, water resistant lubricants must be used for this application. Ineqco can provide stainless steel casters that require less maintenance in frequent cart washing application.
Caster Maintenance & Inspection
Check the swivel assembly for excessive play due to wear. If the swivel assembly is loose, it is advisable to replace the fork or the entire caster. If the caster has king bolt and nut, make sure it is fastened securely. If the swivel does not turn freely, check the corrosion or dirt binding the raceways. Again, it may be necessary to replace the swivel assembly or the entire caster. If the equipment has rigid casters at one end, make sure that casters fork legs are not bent or distorted.
Wheel Maintenance & Inspection
Check wheels for visible tread wear. Flat spots may indicate accumulation of floor debris such as string or thread which can cause the wheel to bind. Remove the wheel axle bolt and nut. Clean out foreign material and check wheel bearings for wear or failure. Re-assemble if parts are not damaged. Wheel thread guards may be installed to reduce buildup if string and thread wrapping is a continuing problem. After wheels have been inspected and repaired or replaced, be sure the axle nut is properly tightened. Use lock washer or lock nuts on all axles. Note: Axle nuts with thread locking dimples must be replaced because after initial unscrewing it loses its self-locking property.
Brake Maintenance & Inspection
Check brakes for proper operation. It is recommended that scaffold caster brakes be tested daily or before each use of the equipment. Apply brakes one at the time and attempt to move the equipment to make sure that each brake is not slipping or loose. If brake slip due to worn or damaged wheels, replace the wheels immediately and retest the brakes. If the brake mechanism itself is not operating properly, repair or replace it. Before returning the equipment to use, always retest brakes.
Power Towed Operation
Power drawn equipment such as in a tow line or mechanically moved by conveyor will require casters, wheels and bearings specifically designed for this use. Please consult factory for caster recommendation for each specific towing or power drawn equipment application.
Washing Racks
Wash with Mild Soap and Water, use only Commercial Cleaning Product that is Base Metal Friendly. Do Not Use Metal or Sharp Objects that could Scratch the Base Metal and Damage the New Like Appearance. Contact our experienced sales and engineering staff for any additional assistance you may need.