Casters on your carts or other equipment are vital for ease of movement, but once this wheel area needs maintenance, you will have trouble maneuvering when you need to. With regular care, you can save your stainless steel casters. Below are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

Lubricate components.

Every six months, lubricate metal components. However, if the environment in which you work contains corrosive materials or moisture, lubricate more often, typically once a month. Without grease, casters won’t work properly due to excessive friction.

Inspect each wheel.

Look at all the wheels and note visible wear and tear, particularly on treads. Flattened areas may indicate material buildup or a thread stuck to the surface, but sometimes the rubber on the tires is worn down. Replace as soon as you can to avoid steering problems and damage to flooring or other hardware on the equipment.

Check the fasteners.

Wheel frames and fasteners must be inspected. Once a month, flip the cart over or onto its side, and look for loose hardware or broken deck boards. Tighten what you can and replace parts that are beyond repair.

Don’t:

Neglect maintenance.

Not checking on components can lead to irreparable damage. It may also mean having to replace your equipment altogether if caster damage is causing another problem. Clean away grime regularly and stick to a care schedule.

Keep using compromised casters.

If you notice a problem, avoid using the equipment until it is repaired. Continuing to utilize the cart or piece of furniture will lead to more expensive repairs, and can even damage other areas of your facility.

Avoid replacement.

While repairs are great, sometimes replacement is needed. Continuing to repair casters and wheels over and over again may end up costing you more money in the long run. Invest in a replacement and have peace of mind that you will have reliable equipment.

When you need help with your casters, call Casters, Wheels and Industrial Handling. With two locations in Farmingdale on Long Island and New York City, their extensive selection of industrial handling products guarantees you will find the right equipment. From casters and wheels to hand trucks and backstage equipment, the company has you covered. Their selection also includes a variety of styles, including stainless steel casters and furniture casters. Call (631) 650-0500 for more on their inventory or visit them online to browse their products.