A very high percentage of field issues with loading dock equipment can be directly attributed to improper or incomplete installation as well as a lack of proper maintenance. The equipment design is a result of significant engineering and development efforts. The designs have been proven in real world loading dock environments to be extremely reliable. Deficient installations and / or poor maintenance will result in compromised function and operation of the equipment. In some cases it can result in damage or worse, create a safety hazard.
Pentalift provides thorough step by step installation instructions. All steps must be followed and completed to provide a complete installation. Incomplete or improper installations can lead to equipment malfunction and / or damage, create safety issues and void warranties. It is vital to follow all installation and set ups steps as indicated in the installation instructions and owner’s manual. If the installer is unclear or uncertain regarding any of the steps, they should contact their Pentalift representative for clarification.
Some errors or oversights we experience on a consistent basis are:
- Not following the supplied installation instructions. It is important to follow and complete every step of the documented process.
- Assuming the installation of Pentalift equipment is the same as the installation of a different manufacturer. This issue is more prevalent with experienced installers, accustom to installing another manufacturer’s product. While similarities exist between all manufacturers of dock equipment, no two are identical. Assuming Pentalift equipment follows the same installation procedures as a different manufacturer is an unnecessary and potentially costly mistake.
- Missing the vertical weld on dock leveler back frame angle. The vertical weld is important to the installation. It is important that it be made.
- Missing the requirement to remove the shipping bracket tab on the front frame of the dock leveler.
- Missing the requirement to remove the angle on the dock leveler frame used for fork truck handling during shipping.
- Missing the installation of shims to support the dock leveler. Shims are required to be installed in all the required locations indicated in the installation instructions. When shim points are missed, the heavy weight of the fork lift load is transferred to equipment locations not engineered to support the weight. This will result in equipment malfunction or damage.
We encourage you take the required actions within your organization to ensure all installation procedures are completed as specified in the owner’s manuals and installation instructions. You should also emphasize the importance of routine maintenance with your customers and set up periodic maintenance programs.