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Knoxville

865-982-6452

Tri-Cities

423-975-9111

Operating Hours

Parts & Service

M-F 7am - 5pm

Sales & Rentals

M-F 8am - 5pm

Contact Us

865-982-6452

Sales: Blake Wilson

Parts/Service: Terry Nichols

Don't neglect your hydraulic system when conducting routine maintenance on your equipment.
Equipment Maintenance
October 9, 2024

Preventing Hydraulic Systems Failure

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Contractors Machinery

Regular hydraulic system maintenance is something that gets overlooked far too often on heavy machinery. When hoses fail, they can cause serious damage to equipment, unexpected downtime and expensive repairs. Hydraulic systems deliver the power and movement your machines need to maneuver, lift and dig. Failures can be dangerous and costly. So, let’s address ways to keep your machinery’s hydraulic systems operating their best.

Daily Inspections

The best way to prevent failures of hydraulic systems is routine inspections to catch problems before they happen. Make looking for visible signs of damage and wear part of your daily duties before each shift to ensure all components are in good operating condition. If excessive wear or any issues are noted, get them addressed immediately before they completely break and cause more costly problems like full system failures and project shutdowns.

Routing, Heat and Protection

Preventing hydraulic hose failure begins with how the hoses are set up on the machinery. Friction is a common issue that causes accelerated wear and premature failure. In order to avoid abrasion, route hydraulic hoses away from pivot points or other areas that could cause excessive rubbing. Also, avoid running hoses near or through high temperature areas whenever possible. Heat can break down hose material, causing it to lose its flexibility and weaken its structure. It’s also important to cover or install a protective shield around hoses so they’re less likely to experience tears, cutting or other damage from harsh construction site conditions, including proximity to excessive heat sources.

Proper Fluid for Hydraulic Systems

The fluids that run through hydraulic hoses must be compatible with the hose specifications noted by the manufacturer. Improper fluids can deteriorate the inner hose material causing swelling, leaks, filter clogs and even disintegration which won’t be outwardly visible. It can also lead to much larger issues like system contamination and complete hose failure.

Recommended Preventative Maintenance

Hydraulic systems slowly break down over time, even with the proper fluids within, as small particles are released and contaminate the fluid the system compresses to create the power for movement. Changing your filters at manufacturer-recommended intervals noted in your owner’s manual is critical for the longevity of a hydraulic system and trouble-free equipment operation. Overlooking this service schedule will lead to accelerated hose wear, cuts, tears, abrasions and expensive heavy equipment services. You can pay me now, or you can pay me (more) later.

Few things can grind a job site to a halt like hydraulic hose failure. Avoid costly shutdowns and repair costs by keeping your heavy equipment’s hydraulic system maintenance on schedule with daily inspections and on-time filter and fluid changes. For more about hydraulic system maintenance and repair for your machinery, consult with the experts at Contractor’s Machinery.

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Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment
Equipment Maintenance Heavy Equipment
September 1, 2024

Even Heavy Equipment Tracks Require Maintenance

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Emily Bieger

Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment. Since new tracks can be expensive, and complex installation procedures can add to that expense, extending the life of a machine’s tracks through proper maintenance is smart business. While every tracked machine will eventually need new tracks, proper care and attention can significantly extend their lifespan. Unfortunately, many operators are lax in this aspect of equipment care.

Here are five essential tips to help maximize the life of your current tracks and keep your tracked machinery operating efficiently and smoothly.

1. Choose the Right Tracks for the Job

Selecting the right track width for the conditions you’ll be working in is crucial. Narrow tracks are better for hard-packed soil or rocky terrain, while wider tracks are optimal for soft or muddy ground. Picking the proper track width ensures safety, even weight distribution and will help prevent your machine from sinking into the ground.

2. Smart Driving Practices

Although this may sound obvious, it’s important to utilize proper driving skills to prolong the life of your tracks. Avoid driving over sharp or damaging materials, curbs, or chemicals. Steer clear of steep inclines or declines and minimize time spent on harsh surfaces like asphalt or concrete. And always drive with the machine facing forward to reduce wear and prevent unnecessary track stress. Pay attention to how the machine drives and operates, listening for unusual friction or grinding noises and anything out of the ordinary will help catch issues before they can incur expensive damage.

3. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Muddy tracks need to be kept clean for maximum. longevity.

Keeping your tracks clean helps avoid premature wear. Use a track spade or power washer to remove dirt and debris after each use. Accumulated dirt can affect fuel efficiency as well as cause damage, especially in the winter when frozen dirt/soil can impact rollers and bolts more easily. Be sure to regularly inspect the undercarriage for damage, misalignment, oil leaks, or erosion to the machine.

4. Proper Track Tension and Storage

Check and adjust track tension routinely to prevent damage and performance issues. Loose tracks can slip off and delay completion of your work. Inversely, overly tight tracks may strain mechanicals of machinery. When storing tracks, keep them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Periodically run the machine to avoid warping that may come from a machine staying idle for too long.

5. Thoughtful New Track Installation

When it’s time to install new tracks, proper installation is critical to avoid damage and ensure long-lasting tracks for equipment. Consider having a professional handle this process. If you chose to do it yourself, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear the appropriate gear. Make sure both tracks are replaced at the same time to maintain balanced usage wear and prolong an expensive piece of equipment’s lifespan.

Following proper care protocols and maintenance schedules will make sure you get the full usefulness, value, and longevity out of your equipment’s tracks. For more details, consult the expert technicians at Contractor’s Machinery. We’re here to help!

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Summer heat can harm your expensive machinery just like it can harm you!
Equipment Maintenance
August 1, 2024

Maintaining Your Machinery in the Summer Heat

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Contractors Machinery

Schedule machine use outside of peak sunlight hours

When possible, try to avoid using heavy machinery during peak heat hours. In most places, the summer heat typically peaks between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Operating equipment during these hours significantly increases the chances of your radiator or engine overheating. Instead, schedule heavy machinery use for early morning or later in the day. This tactic also helps protect your machine operators from the extreme heat.

Store your equipment in a shaded area

Try not to leave your equipment in the sun. This simple and logical trick will protect your machine from direct sunlight when it’s not in use. Find shade under trees, a tent, a tarp, or any other cool, dry place. Additionally, consider parking your equipment in the shade, even during short breaks. Any time you can keep your heavy equipment out of the sun it will help reduce heat-related issues.

Inspect your heavy equipment regularly

Daily inspection is important for the life of the equipment. Hot temperatures can cause overheating issues, so it is crucial to check things like coolant and antifreeze levels. These fluids are essential for keeping your machinery cool. It is also wise to regularly check your radiator, hoses, and fans for any leaks or cracks. A small problem with a key component left unfixed can lead to larger issues, so inspect often and don’t skip scheduled maintenance.

Properly clean your equipment

Keeping your equipment clean is not only an important part of general maintenance but is also crucial for maintaining performance during the summer heat. Mud and other debris can accumulate on key components of machinery throughout the day. Ensure that all cooling components are clear of dust and debris daily to prevent overheating and allow for proper airflow.

Prepare your heavy machinery in advance

Don’t wait for the heat to come, prepare ahead! Creating a list of general maintenance that needs to be completed is a great way to get ahead of the heat. Check fluids, grease your machines, and check key components such as the radiator. All of the steps go a long way in keeping your fleet and your business running at full capacity.

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CASE equipment for all types of excavation projects.
Heavy Equipment
July 14, 2024

CASE Equipment to Tackle Excavation Projects

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Contractors Machinery

Topsoil Excavation

Topsoil excavation is one of the most common types of excavation required in almost all construction projects. It is often the first step before laying the foundation or installing pipelines. Having the correct heavy-duty equipment for topsoil removal is crucial to the success of a project. CASE offers a variety of excavators, any of which can be used for such a job, with equipment ranging from compact to large.

Rock Excavation

Many soils contain large rocks or even boulders, necessitating rock excavation before construction can begin. The CASE CX140E or CX490E models are typically used and recommended for rock removal and relocation. Heavy excavators with hydraulic hammers help break up the tough East Tennessee rock for removal.

Footing Excavation

Every foundation requires footings to stabilize the structure and prevent it from sinking or collapsing. Footing excavation is necessary to dig trenches for this essential support. To meet this need, CASE has developed machinery perfect for the job. The CASE CX57C and CX60C Mini Excavators are ideal for residential footings and small commercial buildings, while the CX75 and CX80C Midi Excavators are often used for larger projects. 

Earth Excavation

Earth excavation involves removing the spoil, which is the layer of earth directly below the topsoil. The spoil is used to construct embankments, foundations, bridges, and ditches. Due to the nature of this work, larger excavators with greater bucket capacity are often recommended such as the CASE CX300D and CX500D.

Cut and Fill Excavation

Cut and fill excavation, which involves removing topsoil and spoil to form embankments, raise sections of land, and create foundation filling, often requires large, heavy-duty excavators. At Contractor’s Machinery you’ll find tough excavators like the CASE CX140 and CX500D, either of which can easily gt the job done in comfort and with 6% greater breakout force.

Trench Excavation

Trench Excavation is like footing excavation but applies to a broader range of applications. Trench excavation is used to dig trenches for sewer and pipeline installations, as well as for telephone and electric lines. Since trench excavation is done in stages to prevent deeper trenches from collapsing, it’s important to have equipment that can operate in smaller areas. For utility construction in tight spaces, the short tail radius models of the CASE excavator line are ideal. This includes the CASE CX60C, CX80C, CX145D SR, and CX245D SR.

Dredge Excavation

When the job calls for debris to be removed from the bottom of bodies of water, this is known as dredge excavation. Debris removal allows boats and other vessels to pass without scraping their hulls or getting stuck on obstructions. This type of excavation requires long-reach equipment, and CASE’s long-reach excavators are perfect for the job. Both the CASE CX220E and CX260E models will become exceptionally valuable tools for your fleet.

Muck Excavation

Muck, a mixture of soil and water, is present on many job sites and often needs to be removed to allow work to continue. Removing muck helps dry out an area or relocating it as needed. All CASE excavators can be used for muck removal, depending on the size of the project. We’re happy to help guide you as you choose the right machinery for the situation.

Basement Excavation

Basement excavation involves digging up a large area of soil, dirt, and rock to create space for installing basements or other underground structures. Due to the often-limited space, basement excavation generally requires mid-size excavators. This makes machinery like the CASE CX80C or the CX210 your go to excavators. 

Borrow Excavation

Need materials moved from one job site to another? To ensure that dirt, sand, or soil is moved and loaded into trucks efficiently and safely requires powerful, full-size excavators with big bucket capacity. The CASE CX210 and the CX750D have buckets ranging in size from 36”-96” and the lifting strength to get the job done is less time.

Contact Us

We’d love to help you find the right equipment for the job at hand. For more information about purchasing or renting CASE equipment, please contact the CMI sales team at 865-982-6452 or by email at blake@cmiCASE.com.

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Trends for heavy equipment in 2024.
Heavy Equipment
May 7, 2024

Heavy Equipment Trends in 2024

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Contractors Machinery

Ever-advancing technology and green energy are the consistent focal points for advancement as manufacturers charge into 2024. Large machines are becoming safer, more accurate, and more environmentally friendly, as the industry now looks to prioritizing autonomy as it meets the demands of this modern world.

The global trend for all vehicles is continued progress toward becoming carbon neutral. The automotive industry has been transformed with this goal in mind, and 2024 is finding that construction machinery is making huge strides in this area as well. Although history has proven that smaller equipment (such as mini excavators) can effectively run “green”, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 unveiled several prototypes of larger machines that employ alternative power sources as well.

These electric machines offer fuel savings (the cost of diesel fuel remaining the foremost expense for the operator) and reduced toxic emissions in the environment. Unfortunately, charging time of electric equipment has been a challenge to the construction industry, where every hour counts toward (or against) getting the job done on time. Again, technology is the hero in this story. It is evolving to lessen charging time for these massive vehicles, so operators are finding that they can cut charging hours while prioritizing the health of our environment.

For those machines that currently continue to demand diesel fuel, manufacturers are exploring technology that will at least lower the emission of that fuel. This is resulting in longer operation with less harm to the environment.

In addition to using advanced technology toward energy savings, manufactures are making safety a priority in 2024. Heavy machines are being equipped with object detection proximity sensors and blind spot monitors, which emit a loud sound when objects are near that the operator might not be able to see.

in addition, camera systems are being added to machines that not only increase rearview but all-around view as well (AVMs.). These AVMs are dramatically increasing an operator’s perspective of the job site.  He or she no longer spend valuable job time checking the site manually. These cameras afford 270 degrees of visibility, substantially decreasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Progress in creating autonomy in the construction equipment industry is perhaps the most significant trend of 2024, as it encompasses all the goals of the industry. Manufacturers are investing in technology that allows equipment to be monitored and controlled remotely. Some are currently testing excavators and wheel loaders that can even effectively perform without an operator in the cab. Manufacturers are encouraged to explore this option, since it addresses the common problem of labor shortages in addition to cutting down the hazards of dangerous jobsites.

CASE is committed to leading the progress charge in 2024 to present operators with the most effective, energy-saving machines possible. Click here to get a glance at the CASE products available, or chat with a representative at CMI today to make sure your fleet is effectively meeting the needs of the construction industry in 2024.

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The CASE D series full size excavator is built with the operator in mind.
Heavy Equipment
April 1, 2024

D Series Full Size Excavators

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Contractors Machinery

Redefining “full-sized” for the industry.

CASE knows that when you’re looking for a “full-sized” machine, you’re considering far more than loading capacity and engine power. These are the essentials, and this article will outline all the bells and whistles of its D Series Full Size Excavator. But first, let’s take a look at what’s in this machine just for YOU, the operator.

We know your job is hard enough…no need for the cab of your machine to be. This excavator was designed with comfort, capacity, and control:

COMFORT: Painfully long work days mean you can’t afford to be tortured by a cramped space and cruel seating. An ergonomic approach to its design means no more wincing and moaning when climbing out of your cab.

Series D engineers considered everything from legroom to temperature, seat cushion to placement of controls in order to provide the utmost comfort as well as protection from noise and vibration. The cab is extra-wide, pressurized, and is viscous-mounted, preventing breakage commonly caused by rough terrain.

In addition to the necessary comfort, this cab comes with some “luxuries”. An AM/FM Bluetooth radio, USB connection and phone charger mean the operator never needs to lose touch with the office or home while at the job site and the work environment just got much more satisfying.

CAPACITY: This full size excavator provides 6% greater breakout force and fuel savings than its competitors through the use of hydraulic power. Its arm and boom are more effective than ever, and the machine delivers with faster cycle times and greater precision.

CONTROL:  This increased capacity is credited to CASE’s Intelligent Hydraulic System (CIHS), which incorporates a larger main valve with an electronically-controlled pump and multiple hydraulic sensors. Having a powerful machine is of limited effectiveness if that power isn’t harnessed to get the job done with pinpoint accuracy and efficiency. The Series D full size excavator does it ALL, adjusting the hydraulic pressure of the machine according to the specific job at hand. Consider this:

  • Boom Economy Control (BEC) reduces RPMs during down and swing.
  • Auto Economy Control (AEC) lowers RPMs during idling.
  • Swing Relief Control (SWC) efficiently regulates hydraulic swing power when coming out of a hole and moving toward a truck or pile.
  • Spool Stoke Control (SSC) adjusts hydraulic pressure to optimal outputs and minimizes unneeded operational functions.

Case’s Series D full size excavator sets a new bar for the construction industry. CMI is proud to help put this ground-breaking (literally!) machine in to the hands of your operators!

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Heavy Equipment
March 1, 2024

A Mini Machine That Gives Maximum Performance

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Contractors Machinery

The mini excavator could be just what your fleet is missing

Just how “mini” is this mighty machine? The Mini Excavator literally fits in a standard garage. But don’t let its looks deceive: It’s able to move massive amounts of earth, runs with a diesel engine and contains a boom arm and hydraulic system just like its “daddy” machines; but the Mini weighs in just under 10,000 pounds.

Used in residential settings, the Mini Excavator is one of the most versatile machines on the market. It efficiently digs foundations, grades, and levels lands with precision, and it effectively performs heavy-duty tasks like trenching and digging holes for septic systems.  

In the commercial world, this machine is being used for digging trenches, foundations, footings, even demolition work. Operators use it to create narrow trenches in utility work, transport mining and quarrying materials, and perform a variety of farming operations, such as creating irrigation systems.

This machine’s versatility doesn’t stop there. The Mini Excavator excels in the industrial sphere as well, meeting industry standards with a whole new level of proficiency. Its smaller size enables it to reach places other machines cannot, all the while being equipped with the power and precision to clear land, break down concrete, and move quickly with ease to transport waste and debris.

There is no question that the Mini Excavator would be a sensational addition to your fleet. If you are considering it, it’s critical to consider the option of renting vs. buying. It costs between $20,000 and $90,00 to buy. Depending on the model, brand, age and condition (new or used), this is a pretty broad range, so careful research and taking a farsighted look at your budget may determine that renting is a better option than buying.

When weighing the two options, here are some critical questions to consider:

  • How long and often will I use the machine? If needing for the very occasional job, renting is most certainly the wise thing to do.
  • Do I have the current capitol in my budget to either buy outright or make payments on a new machine? Even an occasional use over time may make a purchase worth it. (And something to consider with this specific machine is that, because of its versatility and unique size, many customers find that they opt for its use even more than originally anticipated.)
  • What could I potentially save? Larger machines are a more substantial expense to run. If the Mini can take on some of that work, you can potentially extend the life of your fleet all around.
  • How much can I allot for maintenance and repair costs? No purchase is carefree, and these are expenses that need to be approached thoughtfully when looking at your long-term bottom line, whether you buy new or used. If you’re contemplating the Mini or any other major equipment, talk to current owners and get a general feel for the weight of any long-term investment of a construction machine.

CMI-CASE takes pride in not only the products we carry, but the expertise that comes with them. If you want to check out the magnificent Mini, our experts will help you make the decision of whether buying or renting is the best option for you!

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Buying new or used equipment. Today's blog breaks it down.
Equipment Maintenance
January 17, 2024

New or Used?

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Contractors Machinery

Some easy ways to answer a hard equipment question.

When you need to increase your fleet, you may have a better option than buying new. Purchasing used machinery isn’t only a great idea for the small business owner who doesn’t have the capital to purchase new; there are advantages for every business owner that are worth considering. If you are weighing the advantages and disadvantages of a used equipment purchase, just be sure you can check all the necessary boxes and have genuine savings in the end.

CONDITION – Since there will always be some unknowns when buying used construction equipment, it’s critical that you ask as many questions as possible. (a) Can the owner verify the operational hours on the equipment? (b) How about a complete service history? (c) Will there be any type of warranty on your used equipment? The answers to these questions (or lack of answers) may quickly determine your decision. If you’re still leaning toward used, have a third party do a thorough inspection.

PRICE – Determine that the purchase price really is lower than buying new. Just like with a car, equipment dealers have some “wiggle room”. This increases if you’re buying multiple machines, so make sure you really know the rock-bottom costs you are comparing. Another factor in determining price is interest rates. They must be factored in when you are comparing prices of new and used alike.

AVAILABILITY – Factories typically have a substantial production lead time. Once you place an order for a new machine it may be months before your equipment hits the job site. In fact, you may need to rent equipment temporarily until yours arrives. In an industry where time equals money, this is a necessary consideration. If you buy used, it’s possible to have your new skid steer lifting, excavator digging, and dozer moving within a few days.

VALUE – New heavy-duty equipment depreciates the second it leads the dealership. This will hit hardest when it’s time to sell. Used equipment doesn’t carry the same depreciation, so the buying and selling price point should be much less substantial.

TECHNOLOGY – There are substantial technological advancements being made each year in the heavy equipment industry. If these are critical to your work, get creative and take the financial plunge…new will be your best decision in the long run.

When all things are considered, you may conclude that it’s best for your business to buy new. But don’t rule out used until all things truly are considered! You just may have a better pre-owned option. Call your CMI-Case dealer today to find out more.

Knoxville | 865.982.6452
Tri-Cites | 423.975.9111

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Construction
April 10, 2023

A Look Back at CONEXPO 2023

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Contractors Machinery

CONEXPO is North America’s largest construction trade show, and it happens every three years in Las Vegas, NV. The most recent event was March 14-18th and Blake Wilson, VP/General Manager of Contractors Machinery Inc., attended this year’s show. We caught up with Blake and talked all about his experience.

CONEXPO 2023 is in the books from Las Vegas. Reports are the show broke attendance records, with over 139,000 people from over 30 countries. What did you think of this year’s CONEXPO overall?

Wilson: My feet hurt from trying to walk 3.5 million sq/ft of Convention Center. I have attended CONEXPO several times over the last 35 years and my biggest takeaway is that Technology is everywhere in the Construction Equipment Industry. Electric-powered equipment, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Controls, real-time machine maintenance and much more…

CASE Construction Equipment promised “You’ll see the difference” at CONEXPO, as they highlighted ‘The New CASE. What did you see?

Wilson: CASE Construction Equipment division’s biggest difference is a commitment to and investment in its dealer network, manufacturing quality products, as well as committing to being a leader in developing new products and getting them to market. This began with CASE DL550 Minotaur Compact Track Loader/Dozer and continues with their EV Series of Electric Mini-Excavators, Compact Track Utility Loaders and more.

The CASE Booth touted over 30 new machines, attachments and technology. What new products from CASE are you excited about and why?

Wilson: Obviously, the Minotaur is front and center as THE new product…we are expecting delivery of new units within the next 30 days at Contractors Machinery (CMI). Other new products such as mini-wheel loaders, wheeled excavators and the new SV utility backhoe will be additional products that CMI will inventory and provide to our clients

People are excited about the Minotaur DL550 compact dozer loader, what kind of game changer is this for your customers?

CASE Minotaur DL550

Wilson: The Minotaur has been thoroughly tested and creates a completely new product segment in the equipment industry. The ability to have a machine-controlled crawler dozer that easily becomes a loader is ideal for those in the dirt moving business.

Why is it important for CMI to be present at CONEXPO?

Wilson: It enables us to see the latest innovations in our industry from throughout the world. Additionally, it is an opportunity to look at potential other equipment lines that CMI may want to carry for our East TN customer base. We picked up Toro at the last CONEXPO in 2020 and it has been an excellent addition to our line-up.

CONEXPO gives a good indication of what’s happening in the construction industry as a whole. How is it feeling to you?

Wilson: The old school construction industry stereotype is changing rapidly. The industry is strong, but the future needs, and requires, young people to get involved. The take-away from CONEXPO is, if you want to be part of a dynamic, fun, high-tech industry, male or female, this is a great place.

The construction industry is evolving and advancing in many ways. What new technologies or equipment did you see that impressed you?

Wilson: Machine controls are amazing for most of the heavy equipment manufacturers. Video game players will be the operators of the future. CASE Construction’s acquisition of Raven Technologies will be a game changer for both the Agricultural and Construction sides of CASE in the very near future.

What innovations are you seeing in hydrogen-powered or electric-powered construction equipment?

Wilson: Nearly every manufacturer had electric-powered equipment on display at CONEXPO. Electric will have a place in certain segments of our industry, but battery life, universal charging stations, etc., remain a question. The CASE Concept “Tetra” Wheel Loader has a methane engine and, on paper, seems like a great potential use of resources and an efficient machine for the waste management industry.

One last question Blake: Did you win or lose at the tables?  

Wilson: There were moments of success but as usual the House came out ahead.

The next CONEXPO event is scheduled for March 3-7, 2026, in Las Vegas.

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423-975-9111
Parts & Service
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M-F 8am-5pm
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blake@cmicase.com
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eric@cmicase.com