5 Ways to Protect Your Power Pack During Emergencies

COVID-19 related events are having a profound effect on local grocery store inventory. The resilience of the supply chain will have a significant impact on the health and welfare of all of us.

Even those that until now may not have fully understood the role that we in the refrigerated transportation industry play in keeping fresh produce on the shelves, they are indeed watching us now.

One key element is the Power Pack reefer generator to ensuring the successful throughput of the perishable cargo under your care.

All of us here at Power Pool Plus remain available to assist where possible. Your team, however, is the first line of defense against unexpected generator shutdowns. And the proper maintenance practices that you follow may make the difference between success and failure.

Here are some fundamental steps that everyone on your team should know in regards to Power Pack maintenance.

1. Keep extra fuel filters on hand - Bad fuel is the #1 cause for generator failure. Checking for clogged fuel filters is an excellent first action to power pack shut down. Replace each as needed and be sure to correctly prime each filter before installation. If equipped with a RACOR filtration system, visually check for debris and clean as necessary.
2. Avoid low reefer count per Power Pack - In other words, try to limit the times that each power pack is under-loaded, or under 50% capacity. Under-loaded Power Packs will cause a condition known as wet-stacking, indicated by thick black exhaust smoke, which may limit engine performance when you need it most.
3. Check Oil Levels Daily - Daily inspection of oil levels, including reserve make-up tanks (if equipped), will prevent surprise shutdowns due to low oil pressure.
4. Check Coolant Levels Daily - Change in reefer load quantities from low to high can affect engine operating temps causing some coolant to release from the system. Daily inspection can reduce shutdowns due to low coolant levels.
5. Keep up with routine maintenance schedules - The best line of defense against power pack failure is to keep fresh eyes on your machines as frequently as possible. Here are our suggestions:

• • Every 250 Hours
    • Change Oil and Filters
    • Change Fuel Filters
    • Inspect Belts and Hoses for Wear (Replace as Needed)
    • Inspect for Oil and Coolant Leaks
    • Address any concerns ASAP or contact Power Pool Plus
  • Every 500 Hours
    • Same as above PLUS change Air Filters
    • Inspect radiator for dust and debris build-up. Note: clogged radiators should only be cleaned by professionals with the right equipment and skill to prevent delicate radiator damage.

These steps are only a few first response actions to keep your power pack generator healthy and operational. If there are other concerns or questions related to power pack maintenance, please contact Power Pool Plus for more details.

by Power Pool Plus