Tuesday, December 18, 2012

I bought my first bucket truck…..now what?



After I bought my first bucket truck several years ago, I found myself asking, now what. Sure I know what the truck does and I know how to go up and work on the jobs, but what do I really know about the truck and aerial.

How am I supposed to know everything I need to do? What is the required maintenance and inspections that need done? These manuals that came with it are as clear as mud.

I figured my best option was to really apply myself and study these manuals front to back. Well at least I read through them. That has got to put me ahead of most. I had some ideas, but also some conflicting items. I tried to make a chart and a plan, but it just seemed like it was not working out right.

I swallowed my pride and contacted the dealer I bought the truck from. I remember how he explained everything to me when I bought the truck. I discovered that he was an amazing resource to turn to. He knew what the manufacturers and ANSI requirements were, and quickly put me on the fast track to bucket truck maintenance and inspections, and all I had to do was ask.

Several years later, I run my own electrical contracting company with a fleet of bucket trucks, digger derricks and trouble trucks. I reflect back on that first truck and am truly thankful that I made that phone call that day.


Glen
General Electrical Contractor