There are few things better than climbing into the cab of your new machine and getting a big whiff of that new machine smell, but once that excitement dies down reality hits and you’re faced with the challenge of getting the highest return on your investment. However, you don’t have to face this challenge alone.
There are several ways to maintain your equipment at an optimum level of performance which can be overwhelming. You may not have the time to learn about all the available options to make sure the right maintenance and service decisions are made. A good first step is getting a full understanding of your dealer’s commitment to the equipment they sell so you can take advantage of the resources they have dedicated to supporting you and your operation.
An important team member to get to know is your Parts and Service Sales Representative (PSSR). Although your PSSR gets paid by your equipment dealer they work for you with the goal of reducing your owning and operating costs. They will work closely with you or whoever oversees machine maintenance at your company to familiarize themselves with your operation, your machines, your people, and the challenges you face. All PSSRs have extensive experience in a variety of applications and receive thorough and ongoing training on all the machines and work tools their customers are operating so they are prepared to provide you with cost-saving solutions. There is also a full team of knowledgeable parts and service experts standing behind the PSSRs so they have all the tools and resources they need. Your PSSR will check in regularly and offer an unbiased perspective on how to keep your machine working effectively.
There is a wide range of responsibilities that a PSSR can handle for you from measuring your undercarriage to acting as a virtual fleet co-manager. It is up to you to decide where and when you need PSSR support. Below are just some of the tasks and decisions a PSSR can help you with.
Machine Evaluations: In conjunction with our service team, your PSSR can perform a comprehensive inspection of your entire machine to ensure it is ready to work at peak performance. A machine evaluation can also help you plan and budget for maintenance, repairs, and parts. After the evaluation, you will be provided with documentation that can be helpful when you are ready to make a decision about your machine’s life cycle.
Rebuilds: Your PSSR can help you decide if and when rebuilding your machine or any of its components including the engine, powertrain, or hydraulic pumps is appropriate. Since CAT machines are built to be rebuilt, Certified Rebuilds can be a cost-effective way to extend the life of your equipment. Rebuilds also allow you to keep the machine that you trust and are comfortable operating. Your PSSR will consider the condition of your machine, application, and your long-term business goals when providing you with rebuild options.
Parts Options: When it’s time to order parts, your PSSR can guide you through all the available options and help you choose the part that makes the most sense for your equipment’s condition and age and your application and goals. For example, it may be more cost-effective to purchase remanufactured parts rather than new parts. If you have an older machine, they can recommend classic or used parts. Even if you need parts for another manufacturer’s machine, your PSSR has got your back! Your PSSR can also help you create a parts.cat.com account so you can easily find and order parts online.
Attachments & Work Tools: With their extensive experience and training, your PSSR can advise you on the best attachment for your machine and application so you can work with higher efficiency.
Undercarriage Management: Maintaining the undercarriage can make up about 50% of your excavator or dozer’s owning and operating costs. Unfortunately, undercarriage management is complicated and can result in costly mistakes such as replacing the entire undercarriage instead of just the worn parts. Luckily, your parts and service sales representative can perform measurements and recommend the best course of action. They will also communicate with the service shop or parts department to provide you with a service estimate or parts quote.
Technology Resources: PSSRs can sell a variety of equipment management tools including CAT Electronic Technician, SIS Web, and telematics such as Product Link and Vision Link.
If you’re ready to put your parts and service sales rep to work lowering your equipment owning and operating costs, contact your PSSR today. Don’t have a PSSR? Give us a call at 888-702-0073 and our knowledgeable team will help!