would be a set of mobile column lifts. Because these lifts are mobile, they do not tie up a bay, are extremely versatile when used in combination with accessories, and can effortlessly be moved from one bay to another. Studies have shown mobile lifts can generate a strong ROI. Investment can be recovered in approximately six months if the lifts are constantly used in day-to-day operations. For a repair shop that provides service to third parties, one set of mobile columns can generate additional revenue of up to $55,000 per year solely from faster turnaround time. There is also available non-hydraulic lifting technology. For example, consider the MAHA USA Mobile Column Lift. This lifting system is one of the few mobile lifts powered by a ball-screw mechanism; a mechanical system that operates at over 90 percent efficiency. It has greater precision and offers advantages that a hydraulic cylinder can’t. A smart operator will do extensive research before investing in a lift. Another key to increasing the profitability of your fleet is by controlling rising fuel costs. Fuel consumption ranks high nowadays, especially as the average price of diesel surpasses $4.00 per gallon in parts of the country. One way of controlling these costs is making certain that engines are running as efficiently as possible. By using scan tools, mechanics can diagnose problems in the engine and (more recently) in the transmission. Some of the newer generation of Allison transmissions can be linked to a scan-tool and a multitude of parameters can be checked for efficiency. Certain parameters can even be adjusted, thus improving the way an engine and transmission assembly runs. If I had to make a recommendation, Snap-on Tools’ Diagnostics Equipment Line would be my first choice. Keeping engines running smoothly and efficiently will result in lower fuel consumption and prolonged service life of the engine. One of the best ways to check engine efficiency is to do an analysis of the exhaust fumes and measure the level of diesel particles after adjustments have been performed. A truck performance chassis dynamometer can be used to greatly optimize performance while connected to the gas analyzer. While this type of equipment may be out of reach for a small fleet, the long-term benefits in a fleet of over 100 buses may well justify the investment. Consult with a specialist and find out what the right configuration of equipment is right for you. There are equipment companies like MAHA USA who offer an entire line of products, from lifting to testing technologies 4
and exhaust extraction systems. In the case of repair facilities that are contracted by operators, the additional revenue generated by a complete line of equipment is well worth the investment. Less downtime, safer work environment, happier employees – all of this translates to increased profits! For more information on any of the products mentioned in this article, visit www.maha-usa.com. Radu Pop serves as market research analyst at MAHA USA, Pinckard, AL.
At right: This lifting system is one of the few mobile lifts powered by a ball-screw mechanism.
BUSRIDE MAINTENANCE | NOVEM B ER . 2013
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