This is a hidden page solely for the use of Qspray.com newsletter readers. It is a continuation of Downtime Tip #7 – Preflight Checklist.
We recommend you create a custom Preflight Checklist for your company based on your power spray equipment and your vehicles. We recommend you take a structured approach to the inspection. For example, I inspect manual equipment (B&G Sprayers, Birchmeier Backpacks) first. Then I inspect my power sprayer by following the flow of water from the tank through the system to the spray gun. This ensures I don’t miss anything. You can download a sample PFC at the bottom of this page.
Here are some ideas to get you started on your Checklist:
Manual Equipment (hand sprayers & backpacks)
Pump up your sprayer.
Does the sprayer hold pressure?
Are there any leaks?
Does the sprayer spray properly?
Does the sprayer shut off properly?
Is the spray pattern intact?
Power Equipment
Check your filter. Clean it, if necessary.
Check o-ring for swelling which can prevent an airtight seal.
Pull 20-30 feet of hose off your reel and inspect for wear. Most hose leaks occur in this area.
Check to ensure engine has gas and oil.
Inspect pull cord for wear.
Inspect belts for wear.
Ensure there is water in the tank, so the pump is not damaged by being run dry.
Start your rig. Let the rig build pressure.
Check your pressure gauge for proper operating range.
Listen to pump and motor for abnormal noises.
Inspect all hoses.
Check pump
Check all fittings and clamps for leaks.
Check tank output fitting for leak.
Check hose reel swivel for leaks.
Check spray gun for leaks.
Use the gun to spray material back into tank. Observe the system for proper operation.
Rewind the hose on the reel to test the reel for proper operation.
Test electrical components for proper operation (e.g., electric pump, electric rewind hose reel)
Other Equipment & Supplies
Ensure enough extra gas for the day’s stops.
Ensure enough chemicals for the day’s stops.
Ensure label/MSDS for the products on truck.
Ensure enough supplies for the day’s stops.
Ensure proper PPE (personal protective equipment) on truck.
Ensure spill control supplies on truck.
Ensure required equipment on truck.
Add items to the checklist that are appropriate for your company. Technicians should report any problems or exceptions they find to their supervisor. Supervisors should have a vehicle inspection checklist that includes all the items on the technician checklist plus additional items that are critical to your company’s success.
The few minutes in the morning spent checking equipment, will prove to be the most productive of your entire day.
Click Here for Preflight Checklist
For more valuable equipment tips, read Stop Spraying Money Down the Drain by Andrew Greess.
Spray Equipment Strategy