An easy, inexpensive way to reduce production costs on pumping wells is to properly maintain the pumping engine. Both the slow speed single and twin cylinder type engines are designed to operate unattended, continuously, for weeks at a time. However, periodic preventive maintenance will extend the life of the engines by two to three times, and substantially reduce repair costs.
Ignition systems head the list of recommendations for complete engine check-ups. Because more production hours are lost due to moisture in the ignition system than any other reason, an adequate cover should be provided to keep rain and moisture off the magneto, or alternator, if a breakerless ignition system is used. Wires should be inspected for cracks in insulation; and connections should be tight and solid. On shielded or low-tension systems, ignition coils should be mounted with the spark plug connections pointed down so they do not collect moisture.
Maintenance Schedule | Daily | Weekly | Monthly | 3 Months | 6 Months | Annually |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Visually check oil level | X | |||||
Visually check water level | X | |||||
Visually check fan belt tension | X | |||||
Check clutch adjustment – clutch should snap in and out firmly | X | |||||
Inspect ignition wiring | X | |||||
Visually check drive belt tension – belts should not flop or slip, but pull load | X | |||||
Lubricate clutch main bearing | X | |||||
Lubricate clutch release bearing – one or two shots w/grease gun | X | |||||
Change oil | X | |||||
Check valve clearance | X | |||||
Clean and gap spark plug | X | |||||
Lubricate clutch pilot bearing – one or two shots w/grease gun | X | |||||
Check governor lubrication – remove oil line at governor to ascertain flow | X | |||||
Clean and flush cooling system | X | |||||
Clean air cleaner | X | |||||
Clean breathers | X | |||||
Visually inspect condenser fins for dirt and lint | X | |||||
Change filter | X |