HOW TO GET YOUR MONEY'S WORTH WHEN SELECTING EARTH HAULERS

To improve profitability in selecting haulage equipment, all assessing efforts must be put into a well-planned complete job analysis; essential selection criteria are presented here. Tonnage or yardage to be moved must be calculated. Type of material, haul distances and haul road conditions are also important. Loading unit utilization must be considered. Types of dump areas is a prime consideration, and machine availability can make or break a job. Equipment manufactures spec sheets must be studied; machine horsepower, the amount of torque rise, engine design (should permit operation on lower cost high - BTD-content fuels) and fuel systems must be considered. In examination of the machine, attention must be paid to the type, size of unit, operator comfort, and ease of operation. The body, power systems, frame, tires, and brakes are also important. Consideration must also be given to the equipment dealer; dealer service, replacement of parts and equipment financing. Machine cost analysis must include costs of initial price, operation, repairs, downtime, depreciation as well as trade-in-value. Specs are presented in which an in-depth study is made of various haulers and combinations of units and bodies available to the earthmoving contractor. A hauler evaluation checklist is also provided.