A crane is a very important piece of machinery that is used in many different industries for a variety of purposes. They are also very expensive, and as such, need to be well-maintained to function properly and avoid any costly repairs.

Here are two crane issues to watch out for.

Damaged Chain Links

The key to a crane's strength and stability is its chain. The chain is what lifts and lowers the crane's load. If any of the links in the chain are damaged or broken, it could cause the crane to malfunction and drop its load. The damaged chain links can cause the crane to be unstable and even collapse.

The main causes of chain link damage are corrosion and wear and tear. This occurs when the crane is used frequently and is not properly maintained. The chain links can also break off if the crane keeps hitting something while in operation.

To catch this issue early on, be sure to regularly inspect the crane's chain for any damage. Look for any cracks, bends, or breaks in the links. If you see any signs of damage, contact a qualified crane technician for immediate repairs. Deteriorating chain links are a constant hazard and can lead to serious accidents if not fixed promptly.

Visible Leaks

Leaks can occur in many different areas of the crane, such as the hydraulic system, hoses, or fittings. The crane's hydraulic system is what helps you lift and lower the crane's load. If there is a hydraulic fluid leak, it can cause the crane to lose power and drop its load.

Hoses and fittings can also develop leaks over time. These types of leaks are often caused by wear and tear or damage from using the crane. They can happen slowly, even if the crane is well-maintained.

To prevent leakages, look for any wet or oily spots on the crane or the ground below. These could be signs of a hydraulic fluid leak. A crane repair expert will first need to identify the source of the leak and then replace or repair the damaged component. They will also top off the crane's hydraulic fluid levels to make sure there is enough power to operate the crane safely.

Another thing to look for is hissing or whistling sounds coming from the crane. These could be signs of a leaking hose or fitting. Check the hoses and fittings for any cracks or damage. You have to take your time on this inspection because leaks can be small and hard to spot. So be on the lookout for cracks, fraying, or other related damage. 

For more information, reach out to local crane repair services.