Read thoroughly the owner and safety manuals which came with your concrete pump, they contain vital information which will maintain your pump in good working order. Routine maintenance can prevent bigger problems developing, as well as ensuring the safe operation of your equipment.

Regularly check the boom for damaged gaskets, leaks from hydraulic fittings, grout in the water box, and for electrical components not functioning correctly or with blown fuses.

Keep all internal and external electrical panels clean and well-sealed. Always replace blown fuses with the correct voltage and relays with the indicated amperage. Do not rely upon test light indicators, perform regular function monitoring tests with an ammeter. Avoid using acids to clean your concrete pump and look out for evidence of corrosion and loose or damaged plugs, terminals or junction boxes. Avoid storing things in the pump cell, in the water box area, as this can damage wires, or even cause short-circuits.

Mechanical and hydraulic pump grease are essential for correct machine functioning and should be revised and topped up regularly. An auto greasing unit could be a worthwhile investment, and could ultimately save you lots of money.

Check hydraulic hoses for signs of bubbling,cracking, abrasion or dry-rotting of the outer layer. Watch for steel or fabric poking out, and for weeping or leaking from the fitting flange. Avoid crushing or pinching hoses, and always replace with the correct size, to maintain in the working pressure of the circuit.Remember never to tighten a hose fitting when the line is under pressure, always shut off the machine first. Use protective gloves, head and eye-wear, and stand back when re-pressurising the system.

Maintain the hydraulic oil at the correct level in the reservoir and always top-up from a clean recipient. Particle contamination is one of the major causes of deterioration of hydraulic components. Moisture contamination should also be avoided as it causes pitting of the metal or bronze pump parts as the compressed water turns to steam. Great care should also be taken not to starve the pump of fluid, which causes cavitation resulting in similar damage to aeration.

A regular maintenance routine will extend the working life of your concrete pump equipmentand ensure the safety of your operators.