Keeping the Wheels Turning

Most city and county fleet managers are entering a third budgetary cycle highlighted with cuts to capital funds for vehicle replacement, as well as slashed operating expenses. This article highlights what fleet managers throughout the country are doing to maintain service levels without going over budget. Many are relying on a combination of thoroughly analyzing the size and capabilities of the fleet versus the demands of the various departments, buying quality merchandise and performing proper maintenance. One strategy is to buy more robust equipment, so the county can push a vehicle past nominal replacement cycles if needed. When it comes to maintenance, the focus for the city and county fleet managers is where to spend budget dollars over the life of the vehicle to reach the 10- or 12-year mark. Proper, consistent maintenance on such items as brakes, tires, the engine and the hydraulic systems on the body can allow vehicles to obtain a 10-year life, despite some metal fatigue on the chassis frame. On the other hand, extending preventive maintenance intervals also is a tactic worth considering.