Saving Fuel: Another Way to Add to Your Bottom Line

By: Diane

May 27, 2015

Here at Cleveland Brothers, we know that the cost of fuel can be crippling to your business. Throughout the history of Caterpillar®, millions of dollars have been spent on research, design and development for improved fuel efficiency throughout the product line of over 300 machines.

Reducing owning and operating costs will always remain a top priority as new models and updates are introduced, and Cat® machines lead the industry in cutting-edge, fuel-saving technology.

When Every Dollar Counts

Here are just a few ways you can save precious dollars:

1. Get Connected with Product Link & VisionLink

Product Link is a remote monitoring solution which comes factory installed on most Cat machines. Activate the hardware and register for VisionLink, a web-based interface to begin monitoring your fleet’s health and fuel efficiencies. Contact your sales rep to see if you have ProductLink on your machine.

2. Minimize Idling

Depending on the application, idling can amount to 15-20% of total fuel used.

3. Avoid Quick Starts

Operator machine handling plays a big factor in fuel economy. Make sure all operators are properly trained on each machine.

4. Keep Machines in Top Condition

Diligent maintenance not only saves fuel, but reduces repairs, improves reliability and minimizes exhaust emissions. Replace air filters, oil filters and change oil (using recommended oils) per the manufacturer’s recommendations. There are many factors that can increase fuel consumption, like locked air filters (by 20%), a stuck valve lifter (by 10-15%) and improper working thermostats (by 25%). In addition, valve and ring wear, engine liming, water in fuel and external leakage are all possible culprits.

5. Check Faulty Fuel Caps

Damaged or loose fuel caps cause fuel evaporation.

6. Maintain Proper Tire Inflation

Under-inflation by just 6 psi consumes 3% more fuel.

7. Watch for Tire Slippage

Insufficient ballasts create excessive slippage and increases fuel consumption, along with premature engine wear, so be sure to remove ballasts for light loads. You should also always match the weight to the job for the proper rolling resistance.

8. Select the Appropriate Size of Machine for the Job

Too much or too little horsepower can drastically affect fuel efficiency.

9. Gear Up and Throttle Down

Select the gear that provides the desired ground speed at a reduced engine RPM without overloading. Studies have shown 5-15% fuel efficiency at 75% power and 15-30% efficiency at 50% power.

10. Consider Your Job Layout

Effectively plan your job site travel patterns to reduce idling and minimize turns.

11. Use the Recommended Fuel Grade

Use the recommended fuel grade depending on weather conditions.

12. Store Fuel Properly

Minimize evaporation. If possible, keep storage tanks well-shaded. Less evaporation occurs with white or aluminum painted storage tanks versus red.

13. Upgrade to Newer Fuel-Efficient Models

Visit with us at Cleveland Brothers to learn about the latest features, benefits and savings to protect your bottom line.

We believe that with the help of Caterpillar and Cleveland Brothers, you are the key to finding ways to reduce fuel costs in every way possible. Every dollar saved can make an incredible difference over the life of your machine.

Looking for more ways to improve your bottom-line and extend the life of your fleet? Learn about various construction technology solutions Cleveland Brothers has to offer.

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