Engine lifespan: tips to maximize the lifespan of your heavy machinery

13 January, 2025

Proper preventive maintenance of the engine is the best way to extend its lifespan. By keeping engines in good condition, you ensure that machinery operates efficiently and performs at its best.

But what regular actions or activities can be applied to achieve this? In today’s post, we share tips to help maximize the engine lifespan of your heavy machinery.

Let’s begin.

8 tips to maximize engine lifespan

Check the oil regularly
 

Oil is crucial for the engine to function properly. Not only does it lubricate moving parts, but it also helps dissipate heat and keeps the entire system clean.

It is essential to check the oil level periodically and change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, as low oil levels or poor-quality oil can cause serious damage to the engine, leading to costly repairs. Don’t skip this!

Replace filters frequently

Air, fuel, and oil filters are vital for protecting the engine from dirt, dust, and other harmful particles. Keeping them in good condition ensures efficient engine performance, improves combustion, and prevents blockages.
 

At CYCLICA, we recommend replacing them regularly, always following the manufacturer’s guidelines found in your equipment’s manual.

Respect the warm-up and cool-down times
 

The engine needs time to reach its ideal operating temperature and also time to cool down after it’s turned off. Therefore, it is very important to follow the manual’s recommendations regarding these times.
 

Respecting them helps avoid sudden temperature changes that can damage the engine. Small actions like these can make a big difference in its durability.

Avoid overloading the engine or pushing it to the limit

To keep the engine in optimal condition and ensure it lasts longer, it is crucial that it operates within the limits specified by the manufacturer. AAvoiding overloads and excessive revs helps prevent unnecessary wear.
 

Additionally, adjusting the engine’s power and speed based on the terrain and type of work not only prevents failures but also improves machinery performance.

Check the cooling system
 

It is vital to ensure that the cooling system is free from debris. This system relies not only on oil but also on coolant, which maintains the appropriate temperature during operation.
 

When replenishing the fluid, make sure to choose one that protects against corrosion and erosion, thus preventing engine damage and extending its lifespan.

Schedule regular preventive inspections
 

Preventive inspections are key to ensuring the engine runs smoothly and avoiding unpleasant surprises. Identifying small issues early can prevent them from becoming major failures.
 

Typically, these inspections include checking essential components such as belts, spark plugs, injectors, water pump, radiator, etc.

Check the fuel tank condition
 

It is important to check for signs of condensation in the fuel tank, as moisture can damage the fuel and affect the engine of heavy machinery.
Condensation typically occurs when the machine is parked in warm places, when there is little fuel in the tank, or due to temperature differences between the interior and exterior.
 

Regularly checking the tank is crucial, as undetected moisture can damage the pump and cause machinery failures.

Check the condition of engine parts

To ensure the engine performs well, it’s important to regularly check its components. Inspect hoses, the radiator, belts, and other key parts closely.
 

Some of the most common engine failures in heavy machinery are related to leaks, worn-out belts, or malfunctioning systems. For this reason, if you notice any signs of wear, it's essential to perform preventive maintenance to avoid bigger problems and ensure the machinery operates properly.

Ultimately, for your machinery to work well and last a long time, proper maintenance is essential.

Regularly checking the oil, filters, cooling system, and fuel tank, as well as respecting warm-up and cool-down times, will help you avoid major problems.

If you detect any signs of wear, the best approach is to address them promptly to avoid expensive repairs. In the end, paying attention to these details ensures everything continues to function efficiently and without surprises!
 

At CYCLICA, we thoroughly inspect each piece of machinery to provide the best service and ensure optimal performance.