11 Fuel Saving Tips For Heavy Equipment

Through that extensive R&D, Cat has discovered the areas where the most fuel is wasted when operating any brand of heavy equipment. Addressing these 12 areas can help you reduce your owning and operating (O&O) costs.

Fuel-Saving Tips

• MINIMIZE IDLING Depending on the application, idling can amount to 15-20% of total fuel used.
• AVOID QUICK STARTS Operator machine handling plays a big factor in fuel economy. Make sure all operators are properly trained on each machine.
• KEEP MACHINE IN TOP CONDITION Diligent maintenance not only saves fuel, but reduces repairs, improves reliability, and minimizes exhaust emissions. Replace air filter, oil filters, and change oil (using recommended oils) per manufacturer’s recommendations. Blocked air filters can increase fuel consumption by 20%. One stuck valve lifter can increase fuel usage by 10 -15%. Improperly working thermostats have been noted to increase fuel consumption by 25%. Throttle linkage needs to be kept properly adjusted. Other culprits affecting fuel economy include: valve and ring wear, engine liming, water in fuel, and external leakage.
• FAULTY FUEL CAPS Damaged or loose fuel caps cause fuel evaporation.
• MAINTAIN PROPER TIRE INFLATION Under-inflation by just 6 psi consumes 3% more fuel.
• TIRE SLIPPAGE Insufficient ballast creates excessive slippage and increases fuel consumption, along with premature engine wear. Remove ballast for light loads. Match the weight to the job for the proper rolling resistance.
• SIZE MACHINE FOR JOB Too much or too little horsepower can drastically affect fuel efficiency. Our job at Cashman Equipment is to help you match the right machine to the job you’re doing.
• GEAR UP – THROTTLE DOWN Select the gear that provides the desired ground speed at a reduced engine rpm without overloading. Studies have shown 5 -15% fuel efficiency at 75% power and 15 – 30% efficiency at 50% power.
• JOB LAYOUT Effectively plan your job site travel patterns to reduce idling and minimize turns.
• RECOMMENDED FUEL GRADE Be sure to use the recommended fuel grade depending on weather conditions.
• FUEL STORAGE Minimize evaporation. If possible, keep storage tanks well-shaded. Less evaporation occurs with white or aluminum painted storage tanks versus red.