6 Signs Your Heavy Equipment Needs to Be Serviced

Sticking with a routine maintenance schedule can help you ensure good equipment health and boost fleet management. Regular service is essential for ensuring your fleet’s safety, reliability and performance. However, warning signs can vary, and you may need to be made aware of what a certain symbol or indicator means.

Learning the most common warning signs of heavy equipment helps you quickly detect when your machines need professional inspection and service, allowing you to keep them in top condition.

Warning Signs That Indicate Your Equipment Requires Service

Promptly tending to issues with your heavy equipment as they arise is integral to minimizing further damage, avoiding hazards and ensuring peak performance.

1. Low Fluid Levels or Leaks

Your machine’s fluids, including oil, fuel, hydraulic fluid and coolant, play a crucial role in proper functioning. Low fluid levels are among the telltale indications you should schedule a service appointment for your equipment.

Inadequate fluid levels can cause multiple issues:

  • Increased friction
  • Overheating
  • Accelerated wear
  • Equipment failures

Ensure you also address any leaks promptly, as your equipment’s fluids can pose an environmental hazard and safety risk. Routine service can help you streamline fluid management to ensure peak machine performance.

2. Decreased Equipment Performance

Another warning sign that your heavy equipment needs service is reduced performance in terms of efficiency, power or productivity. Some common causes of declining equipment performance include:

  • Engine malfunction
  • Damaged hydraulic system
  • Overly worn components

When your fleet is not functioning at its best, it may cause delays that ultimately impact project timelines. You can help protect your bottom line by tending to potential issues immediately. Addressing performance concerns promptly can help prevent further damage and support safer, more efficient operation.

3. Damage or Excessive Wear

Inspecting your equipment visually to ensure it is in good working condition is always beneficial. As you look at your machines, check for signs of damage that may negatively impact efficiency, compromise structural integrity and impose safety risks. If your machine has cracks, leaks or damaged components, it is time for service.

Belts, tracks, hoses and cutting edges are some of the most worn components. To support optimal operation, ensure you repair and replace equipment parts as needed.

4. Difficult Starts, Rough Running or Engine Stalling

Pay close attention as you fire up your equipment’s engine. Difficulty starting is a top warning sign your heavy equipment requires prompt servicing. These issues often indicate malfunctions or failures of the following parts:

  • Battery
  • Starter motor
  • Fuel system
  • Ignition components

Issues with your fuel system or engine may cause irregular idling, vibration or misfiring that can harm overall equipment performance. Take all engine problems seriously and schedule service immediately, as they can increase safety concerns and risks at your job site.

5. Alert Indicator and Warning System

Another key sign your machine needs service is an alert on your monitoring system. You may see a warning light or message indicating an issue, malfunction or failure.

For example, a dashboard light may indicate that the engine temperature is too high or the battery level is too low. Knowing your heavy equipment’s alert symbols and their meaning is essential to act quickly when your machine has issues.

Address indicator lights immediately. Ignoring them can result in accidents, hazards and high costs. Regularly monitor the machine’s warning system and schedule an appointment with an expert technician when you notice a new alert.

6. Unusual Noises

If you hear strange sounds from your machine, this could be a crucial warning sign that your equipment needs professional servicing.

Grinding noises often indicate problems with the machine’s mechanical components like gears or bearings. The wear or misalignment of belts or other moving parts often causes a high-pitched screeching sound. A loud hissing sound can come from the equipment’s hydraulics or cooling system.

Listen for irregular noises when starting the machine’s engine. By staying in tune with these heavy equipment service signs, you can protect your fleet’s reliability and life span.

The Importance of Routine Inspections and Service

Protecting your equipment with routine inspections and timely service benefits your operations and bottom line for a few key reasons.

Supporting Optimal Safety and Performance

When you suspect an issue with one of your machines, you should stop using it immediately. One malfunction can pose a serious risk on your job site, so schedule service as soon as possible to ensure operator and job site safety.

In addition to supporting a safer working environment, you can also enhance equipment performance by ensuring its components are in great condition.

Saving on Long-Term Repair and Replacement Costs

One of the best ways to protect your business’s bottom line is to invest in preventative maintenance and coordinate immediate service when something goes wrong with one of your machines. Tending to potential problems early allows you to intervene before a component or system develops more extensive and expensive issues.

Extending Equipment Working Life

Regular servicing helps keep your equipment in optimal condition for longer, prolonging the machine’s working life and helping maintain its value. Small tune-ups can go a long way in keeping your fleet in top working condition. Proper maintenance and attention to detail are paramount if you’re looking to maximize your investment.

Equipment Reliability and Reduced Downtime

Your machines must be ready for action when you need them. Prioritizing service is one of the most impactful ways to ensure equipment reliability to support productivity and stay on schedule. Maintaining your machines helps you combat unplanned downtime, which can negatively impact project timelines and lead to financial losses.

Protect Resale Value

Another reason to stay on top of your equipment service is to protect your investment and the machine’s resale value. Proper heavy equipment maintenance and documentation can help you sell or trade in your equipment model at a higher sale price than you might get otherwise.

Protect Your Heavy Equipment Fleet With Help From the Service Professionals at Warren CAT

If you need Cat® equipment service or repair in Oklahoma, West Texas or the Texas Panhandle, turn to Warren CAT. We want to help you optimize job efficiency and productivity by handling all of your equipment service needs.

You can rely on our experienced, highly trained technicians for expert maintenance to keep your machines functioning at their best. We also provide round-the-clock emergency repair services to ensure you have the tools and equipment your project requires when you need them.

Contact us at Warren CAT to schedule service today or visit a location near youto speak with a technician.

Contact Us for Heavy Equipment Service

Construction Site Specialty Support Equipment

Specialty equipment is designed to perform specific tasks efficiently, consistently and precisely. For example, you may need to break up pavement to replace an old road or driveway. In that case, a jackhammer can come in handy. The right equipment for your niche projects can enhance your business’s productivity, profits and quality.

Warren CAT is your one-stop shop for specialty rental tools and equipment. Whether you work in construction, mining, landscaping or agriculture, we have solutions for every job site.

Construction Site Support Tools

While we’re known as the region’s authorized Cat® dealer, we also supply rental machines from other reputable brands. These partnerships enable us to provide a broader range of construction site equipment, such as power generators, jackhammers, skid steers and telehandlers. We also supplement our equipment line with the latest technology features, helping your workflow become all the more efficient.

You can find nearly anything on your construction equipment checklist, including:

1. Power Solutions

A reliable backup electricity source is often necessary for a job site, as you never know when you might need it. Warren CAT has the region’s most comprehensive selection of rental power generators if you need to supply power to your operation.

We have vast expertise in power solutions if you need more clarification on what power capacity your site requires. Connect with one of our experts and we’ll match you with the right unit. Our rental generators fulfill many applications, including:

  • Powering lights and equipment for outdoor events, such as fairs and concerts.
  • Providing backup power at remote work sites.
  • Helping industrial facilities continue operations while the primary power source is down for maintenance.
  • Allowing emergency crews to work uninterrupted in disaster relief zones.

We have both diesel and natural gas generators available for rent. These units are self-contained, and are available mounted to a skid or a trailer for easy transportation between sites.

2. Light Equipment

Proper illumination is essential for construction crews to work safely and efficiently. That’s why light towers are critical construction site safety equipment. They provide clear visibility for dimly lit work settings or nighttime projects, reducing hazards and injury risks on the work site. Light towers can also enhance security and help safeguard facilities, equipment and materials.

If you need to rent a light tower in the Texas Panhandle, West Texas or Oklahoma, turn to The Warren CAT Rental Store. We have plenty of solutions to handle your short-term lighting needs. We can also help you select the ideal light tower to ensure maximum brightness for your site. We assist every step of the process, including:

  • Delivering the light tower to your site
  • Installing and starting up the light tower
  • Performing emergency service and routine maintenance as needed
  • Removing the light tower from your site when you’re finished with it

3. Tools

Having the right tools for your project makes all the difference in efficiency. Fortunately, you can find many of the tools you need at The Warren CAT Rental Store, such as:

  • Jackhammers. If you need to break up concrete, stone, asphalt and other dense materials, you can find rental jackhammers at Warren CAT. Manufactured by Atlas Copco, these pneumatic breakers include a vibration-reducing hand and arm protection system, which can reach up to seven times the trigger time of a standard jackhammer. Their polyurethane silencers can also decrease sound by up to 75%.
  • Light compaction equipment. We have multiple light compaction solutions for rent, including trench rollers, plate compactors and tampers. These units come from high-quality brands like BOMAG and Wacker Neuson.

4. Construction Site Equipment

With our extensive rental selection at Warren CAT, you can easily cross off the different machines on your construction equipment list. Our lineup includes:

  • Mini skid steers. mini skid steer loader is perfect for smaller-scale material handling tasks, such as spreading and grading soil, digging and filling small trenches, plowing snow or clearing debris from the site. Warren CAT offers Ditch Witch mini skid steer rentals with superior traction and maneuverability for more challenging terrains.
  • Telehandlers. Telehandlers are true workhorses, letting you lift, carry and place large material loads. Despite their heavy-duty load capacities, they have a compact frame so you can easily navigate more confined work areas. Telehandlers suit many job sites, including construction sites, farms and landscaping settings. At The Warren CAT Rental Store, we have several JLG telehandlers for rent in Oklahoma and West Texas.
  • Landscaping equipment. Wood chippers are indispensable for disposing of excess branches, limbs and logs. We have Vermeer wood chippers for rent, which are known for their durability, ease of use, safety features and convenient transportation.

Industries We Support

Many businesses need reliable machinery for specialized operations, from construction sites to waste management companies. Warren CAT serves a diverse variety of industries with our well-maintained equipment, including:

  • General construction. Construction sites rely on various tools and equipment for building projects, including telehandlers, jackhammers and light towers. Keep your construction workflow on track with solutions from The Warren CAT Rental Store.
  • Landscaping. Landscaping projects involve a great deal of digging, grading and hauling materials. Renting equipment from Warren CAT — like mini skid steer loaders, telehandlers and wood chippers — can make these tasks far more efficient.
  • Paving. You’ll need reliable equipment if you frequently handle roadwork and paving applications. We have a range of solutions for the paving industry, including compactors, skid steers and pavers.
  • Mining. We also cater to the mining sector, supplying critical tools and equipment like articulated trucks, hydraulic shovels, motor graders and pneumatic breakers.
  • Agriculture. Farming and agricultural operations depend on quality equipment for land leveling, tilling, plowing, planting and material hauling. The Warren CAT Rental Store is your go-to resource for farming machinery, including telehandlers, skid steers, wheel loaders and backhoe loaders.

Save on Costs by Renting

If you’re seeking an economical solution to get the equipment you need, renting may be the right option for your business. It helps you avoid a high initial purchase cost and reduce overhead. You can also forgo expenses like permanent storage space and equipment repairs.

When renting from The Warren CAT Rental Store, you can access various tools and equipment at competitive rates. Our knowledgeable representatives can connect you with the best solutions for your projects and needs.

Choose The Warren CAT Rental Store for Specialty Tools and Equipment

You’ll find many necessities for your specialized tasks, from general construction equipment to light towers and generators at Warren CAT. We proudly serve Oklahoma and West Texas with durable, expertly maintained rental equipment.

Streamline your operations with specialty support equipment from The Warren CAT Rental Store. Please browse our selection of site support equipment, or contact our team about your rental needs.

Choosing the Right Road Building Construction and Paving Equipment

Whether you’re working on a major highway construction project or rebuilding a deteriorating sidewalk, having the right pieces of equipment is essential for the job. A little strategic planning will help your construction business determine the best paving and road-building machines for your unique operations. We explore key considerations and tips for finding the right models below.

Understanding Your Project Needs

Your project and its unique requirements will impact which pieces of equipment are necessary to get the job done right and efficiently. A few key considerations will help your business tackle your next road-building project with fewer obstacles and challenges:

Project Scale

The scale of your upcoming paving project will help you determine the right pieces of equipment needed. If your business is working on an extensive roadway network, you may need large, heavy-duty models to support efficiency. A smaller project, such as an urban paving job, will likely require smaller machines to maintain productivity.

Consider project scale and if there are other essential construction tasks, like installing utilities or sidewalks, that could significantly impact the overall job requirements.

Terrain and Environmental Factors

Before choosing equipment for your project, you must understand the terrain and environmental factors that will impact operations. Look at elements like slope, gradient and soil conditions to determine what types of machines are necessary for site preparation.

Proper runoff is also essential to paving projects, and you must consider how drainage features will affect the construction process.

Materials

The materials you are working with play an integral part in equipment selection. You must choose machines for handling asphalt, concrete or aggregates with ease. Consider the tools you’ll need to achieve the right surface texture and finish and the machines necessary for material handling applications and transport.

Types of Paving and Road Building Equipment

The ground must be ready before kickstarting the paving process. A few pieces of equipment are handy for site preparation and pre-paving tasks:

  • Motor graders: These machines grade and level the ground to create a smooth and even surface for paving.
  • Road reclaimers: A road reclaimer pulverizes and crushes existing asphalt and then recycles the material by mixing it with the base below.
  • Soil compactors: Prepping the dirt is easy with a soil compactor that helps remove air and increase ground density to support a solid foundation for the street or pavement.
  • Wheel loaders: Wheel loaders are a go-to machine for material handling applications like transporting gravel or hauling dirt.
  • Wheel tractor scrapers: These pieces of equipment support maximum efficiency and are useful for moving or spreading large volumes of materials using an especially sharp front edge.

The machines used in the actual pacing process help create a smooth, stable roadway that lasts:

  • Asphalt pavers: Asphalt paving machines lay the asphalt or concrete to create a smooth, uniform surface with the right thickness and compaction.
  • Cold planers: These machines are useful for correcting and improving the road surface to create a more level finish.
  • Compactors: A compactor compresses the paving material to eliminate air bubbles and enhance the surface’s strength.
  • Tack trailer: This type of equipment creates a bond between the asphalt layers and ensures proper adhesion to increase the pavement’s stability and durability.
  • Remixing transfer vehicle: These trucks haul and deliver mixed materials around the job site.

The Road Construction Process

The road construction process begins with rigorous planning. Once you know the scope, budget and timeline of your project, your business can start breaking ground:

1. Site Preparation

Road and paving construction starts with site preparation. Your project may require different types of earthmoving equipment, like a wheel loader, to haul away any obstructions and clear the work zone. Then, your team can begin earthwork with equipment such as motor graders, soil compactors and wheel tractor scrapers. You’ll also tackle drainage needs during the preparation phase.

2. Aggregate Placement

Once the land is ready, you can begin subbase and base construction for your roadway. This phase requires you to lay aggregate materials to form the foundation for the pavement project. Motor graders and road reclaimers are handy pieces of equipment for this second stage.

3. Paving

The paving process will look a little different depending on the type of road you are building. Asphalt roads are more straightforward and involve laying the hot asphalt mix with a paver followed by a compactor with a roller.

Concrete pathways are slightly more complicated to construct and require operators to slowly dump the material before shaping it into a smooth, even plane. Once the concrete dries, you’ll add saw cuts or expansion joints to finish it off.

Tips for Choosing the Best Equipment

A few practical tips can help you determine the right pieces of equipment for your next road building or paving project:

  • Keep your financial constraints in mind: Consider the road construction equipment and tools your business already has and if you have the budget to expand your fleet. Renting offers a cost-effective and financially flexible solution for accessing machines that are out of your price range.
  • Consider equipment use: When deciding between different equipment models, always choose the option that your business will get the most use out of. Look at both your short- and long-term needs and consider the types of projects you often work on. These factors will help you determine which models are best suited for your unique applications.
  • Explore different features and attachments: Keep in mind the key features, like engine power, machine size and lift capacity, when determining if a piece of equipment is right for your business. Attachments are also an essential consideration for adding versatility to your lineup and tackling unique applications.
  • Choose equipment based on materials: Consider what paving materials, such as asphalt or concrete, you typically work with. Select machines that work well with your materials’s unique characteristics and support your specific paving operations.

Contact Warren CAT for Quality Road Building and Paving Equipment

When your business needs reliable road construction and paving equipment, turn to the selection available from Warren CAT. We are the authorized Cat® dealer for Oklahoma and West Texas. Our team will assist you in finding the right machines for your special job requirements. As your full-scale solutions provider, we offer new, used and rental equipment that is ready when you are.

Whether you need a paving equipment rental or your business is ready to invest in a brand-new machine, Warren CAT can take care of your construction equipment needs. Contact Warren CAT or find a dealer location near you and get started today.

Emergency Equipment Rentals: How to Handle Unexpected Equipment Needs

In the instance of an unforeseen power outage or construction equipment breakdown, emergency response rental equipment is critical. You never know when these circumstances could arise, so you want to be ready.

Renting equipment is a beneficial option, as you can get the parts and machinery you need quickly in pressing situations. Discover the value of emergency rental equipment, qualities to look for in a rental dealership and our available solutions at the Warren CAT Rental Store.

Why Should You Rent Equipment in Emergencies?

Whether a major storm hits your area, or your main equipment line is down for maintenance or repair, it’s important to prepare with backup solutions you can rely on in various situations.

1. Power Outages

Power outages can occur for numerous reasons, such as inclement weather and planned maintenance. Construction projects may occur in remote locations and areas prone to extreme weather, like snow, ice and thunderstorms.

Regardless of the cause of the power outage, you’ll want to keep operations running as usual. A generator can supply stable power to your facilities and sites to maintain business continuity. If you don’t own emergency response equipment, renting offers an efficient way to get the solutions you need.

Here are some other reasons to consider an emergency generator rental:

  • Customer service: On the customer service side, construction companies depend on functional technology to provide support. A power generator helps them keep in touch with customers even during outages.
  • Safeguarding data: Construction companies manage large volumes of client data. A power outage can lead to sensitive data loss or corruption. A backup power source is essential to minimize disruptions and protect valuable information.

2. Equipment Malfunctions

Many businesses — such as construction companies, mines, farms, and oil and gas companies — rely on equipment that is always ready to work. Equipment downtime can be costly for construction companies.

Various factors can cause equipment to fail, such as:

  • Improper maintenance
  • Operator misuse
  • Physical wear and tear

If you experience a sudden equipment breakdown, renting offers a quick and easy solution to get the replacement units you need. Whether your fleet includes bulldozers, excavators, skid steers or dump trucks, you can find the necessary construction equipment to continue projects without costly interruptions.

How to Choose the Right Emergency Heavy Machinery Rental Service

Now that you know the importance of emergency rental equipment, the next step is determining where to rent your equipment. Here are some qualities to look for in an equipment rental provider:

1. Solutions for Every Industry

Many types of businesses rely on equipment and stable power sources. On that account, an emergency rental equipment dealer should cater to a wide range of sectors, including construction, mining, agriculture and oil and gas.

2. Responsive Services

Time is of the essence during an emergency power outage or equipment malfunction. You’ll want a rental equipment company that can provide speedy service, getting your equipment to your site as quickly as possible. Try to choose a company with efficient and convenient delivery options.

3. Modern Features and Technology

Ideally, you should be able to find rental equipment with built-in technology features for enhanced performance and safety. For instance, remote monitoring functionality can notify you of low fuel levels and system conditions.

Consider a rental equipment provider with a quality selection and access to the latest technology. Renting equipment shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on state-of-the-art features and capabilities.

4. A Broad Selection

Try to choose a dealer with a large rental equipment inventory. That way, they’re more likely to have the solutions you require. Whether you rely on compactors, wheel loaders or rock-crushing equipment, you should be able to find everything you need in one place. Choosing a dealer with a vast rental inventory saves you the hassle of visiting multiple dealerships.

Emergency Cat® Equipment Rentals Available at Warren CAT

If you’re seeking a rental equipment provider that embodies the above qualities, look no further than the Warren CAT Rental Store. We supply parts and equipment from Caterpillar, a global brand known for its superior durability and performance, as well as other leading brands.

Our technicians meticulously inspect and maintain our rental equipment to ensure reliable performance in any situation — whether it’s an emergency or just another day on the job. Browse the different rental equipment we offer below.

1. Power Generators

If you need to rent an emergency power generator in the Texas or Oklahoma area, Warren CAT is ready to assist you. We have a variety of diesel, biofuel and natural gas generators available for rent. A rental genset can:

  • Supply backup power at a remote construction site or similar location.
  • Help industrial facilities operate at full capacity while primary power systems are out of commission.
  • Allow emergency response teams to work continuously in disaster relief zones.

2. Construction Machinery

We have a diverse inventory of Cat rental machines available, including:

  • Articulated dump trucks
  • Asphalt pavers
  • Backhoe loaders
  • Bulldozers
  • Cold planers
  • Compactors
  • Compact track loaders
  • Excavators
  • Motor graders
  • Skid steer loaders
  • Telehandlers
  • Wheel loaders

Find the emergency construction equipment you need from our selection today.

3. Equipment Attachments

Bringing in multiple pieces of large equipment can be challenging and, in some cases, impossible on short notice. Equipment attachments are a quick and flexible alternative. They let you perform different tasks with one machine, like drilling, hammering, sweeping and mulching. These parts are fully detachable, so you can install and remove them as needed.

Renting equipment attachments is practical when you only need these tools temporarily. You don’t have to purchase a specialized attachment you might never use again — simply return it when your rental contract is up. Additionally, you can easily contact your dealer and extend your rental duration if the project runs longer than expected.

Rental attachments let you take on last-minute and short-term projects with more peace of mind. We have several rental attachments available at Warren CAT, including:

  • Augers
  • Brooms
  • Buckets
  • Jackhammers
  • Stump grinders
  • Tillers
  • Trenchers

4. Light Towers

Light towers are ideal for added site security and provide powerful illumination for urgent nighttime operations, like rescues, investigations and post-disaster cleanups. If you’re looking to rent a light tower for your construction project, mine or agricultural operations, we have an extensive stockpile to choose from at Warren CAT.

Find Emergency Rental Equipment at the Warren CAT Rental Store Today

If you’d like to rent high-quality Cat equipment in Oklahoma, the Texas Panhandle or West Texas, Warren CAT is your one-stop shop for parts and machinery. Whether you’re searching for construction equipment, attachments or a power generator, you can find it all here.

Browse our inventory of rental equipment and request a quote today. Need help finding the right rental solutions for your emergency applications? Send us a message or call 866-292-7736.

Renting vs. Buying Heavy Equipment

Construction companies have a few options to get the machines they need for each project — they can invest in a new addition to their fleet or rent the equipment for the duration they require it. Both choices can benefit your business and daily operations, but first, you need to understand how the two differ in how they’ll impact your budget, overall flexibility and project management.

A few key considerations for renting vs. buying heavy equipment will help you determine the right choice for your business.

Costs and Financial Flexibility

Consider your budget and how much financial flexibility you require. Renting heavy equipment is a very economical solution that affords many companies access to better machines than what they could readily invest in right now.

Choosing rental equipment also means forgoing many of the expenses associated with ownership, such as transportation and storage. Businesses can get the equipment they need without tying up too much capital and compromising the projects they can bid on.

However, purchasing the equipment may be more cost-effective if your business utilizes a particular machine frequently or requires it for long-term use. In many cases, owners can save costs by depreciating their machines each year and deducting certain expenses like maintenance, replacement parts and service.

Those who are interested in investing in their equipment can also save costs by selecting used models rather than brand-new options. Used heavy equipment can deliver the power and efficiency your business needs when carefully maintained and operated.

Equipment Utilization

How you plan to use the equipment is an essential consideration for businesses, and there are a few elements to keep in mind:

  • Frequency of use: If your projects require a particular machine on a regular basis, it is often cost-effective to buy heavy equipment rather than rent it in the long run. Renting is the preferable choice when you only need the machine occasionally or for a special project.
  • Project duration: Consider the average length of your construction projects. If you have an upcoming long-term job that will require a piece of equipment not currently in your fleet, buying may be the better option. Renting gives you greater flexibility to meet the needs of sporadic and short-term gigs.
  • Seasonal demand: If your business needs to fulfill seasonal demands, such as brush cutting or snow removal, renting is a fantastic way to get the tools you require without wasting money during the months when those machines are not useful to your operation.

With equipment utilization in mind, you can make smarter financial decisions and ensure the machines in your lineup are useful to your operations.

Maintenance and Repair Needs

Another important factor to consider when choosing to rent or buy heavy equipment is ongoing maintenance and last-minute repairs. When you invest in a machine, you are in charge of establishing and keeping up with a preventative maintenance plan to ensure your equipment is operating at peak performance for as long as possible.

You’ll need to schedule professional inspections and ensure servicing aligns with your plan. If a breakdown occurs, your business needs to tend to the repairs to get the machine up and running again without too much downtime or delaying a current project. Managing maintenance and repairs can ultimately be a juggling act for busy owners.

By renting, you can forgo most maintenance and repair responsibilities. The dealer will likely take care of these things for you, and you can reap the benefits of a well-maintained machine that is ready to work when you are. Your business does not have to invest the time, money or energy into routine inspections, servicing and repairs.

In cases when a breakdown occurs with a piece of equipment you own, renting allows you to get the tools you need last minute without having to wait for repairs.

Technology

The latest construction equipment technologies can supercharge your daily operations. These tools will help your team increase visibility, productivity and efficiency while offering valuable insights into your project data. They can also offer advanced safety features for detecting potential issues before they become serious and costly problems. Ultimately, the technology your business has access to directly impacts how quickly and effectively you can get your projects done.

Purchasing a newer piece of equipment can give your team access to some of the most dynamic software solutions available in the construction industry. However, all these amazing benefits can come with a hefty price tag.

If your business is not in a position to invest in equipment with advanced tech, you can still harness the powers of these tools by renting. Your construction business can take advantage of equipment rentals to experiment with newer technologies and determine if a specific solution is right for your operations. Plus, you will not be responsible for keeping up with ongoing system updates and integrations like you would if you purchased.

Additional Factors to Consider When Renting vs. Buying Construction Equipment

Businesses should consider a few additional elements when deciding how to secure their next machine:

  • Transportation: Renting can be a great option for companies that do not have the means to transport equipment, especially large models, to different job sites. The dealer typically covers the equipment transport and unloading for each job, which is particularly advantageous for long-distance projects when transport costs rack up quickly.
  • Storage: When you purchase equipment, you are responsible for finding adequate and secure storage for it. Consider the associated costs and how storage may impact your insurance premiums.
  • Availability: One of the key benefits of buying a machine is knowing your business has access to it when it is needed, while rental equipment could potentially be unavailable or have a waitlist. However, renting is a great choice for fulfilling niche project needs.
  • Try before you buy: If you’re considering purchasing a new piece of equipment in the future, renting allows you to try the machine, ensuring you choose a good fit for your fleet before making the investment.

Browse Equipment Rentals and Sales Options From Warren CAT

As the authorized Cat® dealer in West Texas and Oklahoma, Warren CAT is here for all your heavy equipment needs. We are a full-scale solutions provider with newused and rental inventory readily available to tackle your next project.

Our team is here to help you discover the right machines and models for your unique job requirements. Whether you’re looking to expand your current fleet or secure a piece of equipment for a short-term project, we’ll ensure you get the equipment your business needs to thrive.

Contact Warren CAT or find your nearest dealer location online to get started today.

11 Benefits of Renting Heavy Equipment for Your Project

Businesses looking for an affordable way to secure the equipment they need for an upcoming project can benefit from renting from a trusted dealer. There are many circumstances when opting for rental machines is preferable and can help your operation meet important project goals, like when you have limited funds or last-minute needs.

Understanding the advantages of heavy equipment rentals can help you decide whether they’re right for your job. Construction equipment rentals can benefit your business in various ways:

1. Reduced Upfront Costs

A major advantage of renting equipment is getting access to the machine you need without high upfront costs. Your business may not have the funds available to invest in something new, and rental options afford you the tools needed to support project productivity without tying up too much capital.

Renting also offers protection from depreciation losses, and your business does not have to take on any debt to continue working on revenue-generating projects.

2. Forgo Storage Challenges and Expenses

Another perk of renting heavy equipment is avoiding common storage challenges. If you have an expansive fleet, finding adequate storage solutions in a convenient location can be challenging. Large pieces of equipment require a lot of space, and accommodating every machine can quickly become expensive.

Renting eliminates the need for on-site storage, saving your business time and money. When your rental term is up, you can return the machine to your dealer and forgo any storage hassles.

3. Fulfill Short-Term Needs

Your business can also turn to equipment rentals when you need to fill a gap in your fleet or tackle a new type of project. Renting is the ideal solution for getting a machine you require for short-term needs. It allows you to save costs while competitively bidding on various projects. You can diversify the kinds of jobs your team completes and select rental options that specifically suit your unique applications, supporting greater effectiveness and productivity.

4. Access to the Latest Technology

Most dealers frequently update their rental equipment inventory, helping customers like you gain access to the latest technologies and advancements in the industry. Newer equipment models with upgraded software offer advanced capabilities to enhance precision, streamline your operations and boost efficiency.

If you do not have the available capital to invest in newer equipment and tech, renting can be a cost-effective way to get the tools you want and need to stay competitive.

5. Reduced Maintenance Requirements

Construction equipment requires rigorous ongoing maintenance, repairs and servicing to remain in top condition and achieve optimal performance. Renting allows you to secure the machines and attachments your business requires without having to worry about upkeep.

In most cases, the rental company tackles machine maintenance needs, and you can rely on them for dependable, well-cared-for solutions. They are responsible for rental equipment maintenance and ensuring the machines you pay for are up and running as intended.

If your business is responsible for maintenance, a machine breakdown or failure could cause project downtime and delays. Renting helps you keep operations running smoothly to support productivity and profitability.

6. Reduce Transportation Logistics

Another benefit of renting heavy equipment is forgoing the stress of coordinating transportation. Since driving your equipment to most job sites is out of the question, you’d have to rent or invest in a tractor-trailer to haul your machines. Especially large models may require oversized or overweight load permits to legally transport them on the road.

When you rent equipment, the rental company will typically handle the transportation. They can deliver your rental directly to your job site and pick up the equipment after your rental term. Your team will enjoy greater convenience and less stress.

7. Increase Financial Flexibility and Control

Machinery rental allows businesses greater financial flexibility. Because renting is cost-effective, you do not have to tie up a lot of your capital. You can continue investing in other important areas of your business while still taking on new projects. With improved cash flow and greater control over your equipment costs, you can increase profitability.

Renting also allows you to have greater oversight of your project, as you don’t have to worry about additional expenses like repairs or inspections. Instead, you can get the machines you need, take on the projects you want and stick to your budget.

8. Try Before You Buy

A huge advantage of renting construction equipment is the opportunity to test different options before adding them to your fleet. You can try new machine sizes and models to determine which one suits your typical operations the best.

Ask your operators for feedback on the machine’s performance and whether it would benefit your project productivity. Your business can avoid investing in the wrong equipment and make informed decisions about which pieces to purchase.

9. Take on New Project Types

Businesses can also leverage construction equipment rentals to explore new job opportunities and open new streams of revenue. With access to specialized machines and tools, your team can take on new types of projects that ultimately benefit your bottom line. Renting makes it possible to expand your services without permanently growing your fleet.

10. No Resale Hassles

When you invest in your equipment, you must put time, money and energy into retaining the asset’s value. When it is time to sell, you must consider both the resale market and your equipment’s condition. Renting allows your business to forgo the financial responsibilities and hassles of selling a machine when you are done with it.

11. Minimize Your Fleet

Equipment rentals are a useful tool for businesses looking to minimize and optimize their fleet. With fewer machines comes fewer storage, maintenance, repair and operational costs. You can save money while streamlining fleet management and improving equipment utilization. Renting allows you to get the right equipment for your job site without complications or strained resources.

Find Reliable Rental Equipment From the Warren CAT Rental Store Today

If you are looking for quality construction equipment for rent in Texas or Oklahoma, turn to the selection available from the Warren CAT Rental Store. Our team will help you find the rental machines, attachments or power solutions your business needs to thrive, and we’ll provide support along the way for a seamless experience.

Whether you need to fulfill short-term project needs or your budget constraints are keeping you from investing in a new piece of equipment, our rental solutions are here for you. Browse the rental inventory from the Warren CAT Rental Store, or contact us for more information today.

Heavy Equipment Guide

Investing in a new machine means your business can diversify its offerings and tackle new projects. The key to making the best buying decision is understanding the basics of construction equipment.

When you are ready to expand your fleet, a few considerations will help you pick the right model for your applications. Explore this heavy equipment guide before choosing your next machine.

Different Types of Heavy Equipment

Construction equipment comes in all shapes and sizes to meet unique project requirements and deliver efficient results. Choose from various options, including:

  • Pipelayers
  • Compactors
  • Wheel Loaders
  • Forest Machines
  • Hydraulic Mining Shovels
  • Wheel Tractor-Scrapers
  • Cold Planers
  • Electric Rope Shovels
  • Off-Highway Trucks
  • Dozers
  • Skid Steers and Compact Track Loaders
  • Drills
  • Backhoe Loaders
  • Excavators
  • Telehandlers
  • Draglines
  • Motor Graders
  • Road Reclaimers
  • Articulated Trucks
  • Material Handlers
  • Track Loaders
  • Asphalt Pavers

Consider what machines are currently part of your fleet. You may want to upgrade an outdated model or add something new. In addition, buying heavy equipment from a trusted manufacturer helps maximize your investment.

Choosing the Right Machine for the Job

It’s important to analyze the following factors when purchasing heavy machinery for your operation:

  • Project requirements: Consider your business’s typical applications, standard project requirements and job site conditions. Which options will help increase overall efficiency for your routine tasks? The model you select should be well-suited to the work you do to maximize productivity and profitability.
  • Attachments: Do your projects require specialized attachments? If so, it’s important to select ones from the same manufacturer as your machine.
  • Equipment Size: Larger models can help your team increase workload but are less maneuverable, especially for jobs with limited space. Smaller machines are often easier to handle but do not accomplish the same productivity due to their size. Equipment dimensions will also impact transportation logistics from site to site.
  • Machine Condition: If you want to purchase a used model, inspecting the machine with a fine-toothed comb is crucial. Consider the equipment’s operating hours and if it has any imperfections or worn parts. Ask for detailed service records to verify that the machine has been properly maintained. Always check the controls and test the machine before buying.
  • Maintenance & Repair Costs: Regular preventative maintenance is essential to get the most out of your construction equipment, and larger machines may be more expensive to maintain. Keep future maintenance and repair costs in mind when selecting a new or used machine.
  • Availability: Whether you are looking to buy or rent, keep in mind that some models may have a waitlist and not be immediately available. Determine the expected availability of your prospective machine and any required attachments.
  • Budget: Your business’s financial position will determine which equipment you can afford. Depending on your situation, financing, leasing or renting may be more advantageous for your operation.

Safety and Training Considerations

Safety is always a top priority when working with heavy equipment. Before putting your new machine to work on a job site, it’s crucial to be well-versed in safety protocols, including:

  • Training: Schedule in-depth training sessions that are dedicated to operational best practices and avoiding injuries. Enforce standards so that only individuals who complete these programs can operate the equipment. Check to see if your equipment dealer offers professional operator training, site assessment and safety training.
  • Safety checklists: It’s important to establish safety-related checklists for each operation phase. All operators should also review the manual for each piece of equipment.
  • Proper habits and protocols: Operators should wear all necessary protective gear and thoroughly inspect the machine before each use. While operating the equipment, your team should always wear a seat belt and stay vigilant while scanning the surrounding area. When the job is complete, equipment must be parked on even ground, and the operator should turn the engine off before exiting.
  • Inspection schedule: Machines should be inspected on a regular basis to determine any necessary maintenance or repairs.

Renting vs. Buying Heavy Equipment

It’s important to determine whether renting or buying a piece of construction equipment would be more beneficial for your company.

Renting is a great option if your business does not have the funds to cover upfront costs, or if you need the equipment for a particular short-term job. Buying is often the better choice if the machine is required for long-term use, and you can afford to cover the costs without tying up too much capital. If you’re considering highly versatile equipment that can serve multiple purposes, purchasing is usually a smarter option than renting.

Used vs. New Equipment

Weigh the pros and cons of new vs. used equipment options to make the most informed decision.

The benefits of a new machine include:

  • The latest technology: New heavy equipment models feature advanced technology and controls to support project efficiency and operator safety.
  • Long-term operation: A recent model can offer a longer working life so your business can get the most time out of your investment.
  • Lower repair costs: Brand-new machines come with warranty coverage and typically require less maintenance than older models with higher operating hours, saving time and money.

On the other hand, brand-new equipment can involve higher initial costs and the potential for waitlists and longer lead times.

Buying used equipment has its own advantages:

  • Lower upfront costs: Buying or renting used machines means you can avoid the higher initial investment associated with brand-new equipment.
  • Slower depreciation: A machine’s market value decreases over time, especially when it is brand-new. Used equipment typically does not depreciate as quickly as a new model, which is ideal if you plan on selling your machine in the future.
  • Lower insurance rates: Used machinery has a lower price tag, which helps reduce insurance premiums and improve overall affordability.

When buying used, it’s a good idea to choose trusted industry brands and to have an expert inspect any machines you want to buy.

Contact Warren CAT for All Your Heavy Equipment Needs

Warren CAT is the authorized Cat® dealer serving Oklahoma and West Texas. As a full-scale solutions provider, we have a vast selection of new and used machines available for sale as well as rentals, parts, service and more. We take a long-term partnership approach, working with our customers to meet their specific needs and help find the right model for any application. In addition, our team of technicians receives state-of-the-art training for expert diagnosis and repair.

Contact Warren CAT or find a location near you to discover the best equipment for your next project.