When it comes to heavy-duty machinery and off-highway equipment, efficiency and reliability are key. Every second of downtime due to maintenance can translate into significant losses in productivity and revenue.

Recognising this challenge FUCHS, a global leader in lubricants, has an Oil Chooser function on its website that allows customers to easily and quickly search for and select the correct engine oil, transmission oil or service product for their yellow equipment. The Oil Chooser functionality can even be accessed on your smartphone on-site by simply opening up a new window.

The FUCHS Oil Changer has been designed to streamline the oil change process for off-highway equipment, ranging from construction machinery to other vehicles. It encourages proactive maintenance, offering myriad benefit to equipment operators and fleet managers alike.

“The aim is to minimise downtime and maximise efficiency,” explains Jarryd Tate, Application Engineer at FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA. Traditional oil changes for off-highway equipment often involve time-consuming and labour-intensive procedures, such as draining the old oil, replacing filters, and refilling with fresh lubricant. These tasks not only demand significant labour but also pose safety risks and logistical challenges, particularly in remote or rugged environments.

Therefore, making sure you always have the correct product on hand is critical to assist operators to complete these tasks quickly and effectively, even in the field. Selecting the best lubricant is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

“However, with a myriad of lubricant options available on the market, selecting the most suitable product can be a daunting task, especially given stringent OEM requirements and the common problem of a lack of in-depth technical knowledge on the part of the end user,” says Lesley Barnard, Automotive Aftermarket Sales Manager at FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA.

Accessible directly through the FUCHS website, the Oil Chooser is an intuitive online tool to streamline the lubricant selection process for off-highway equipment. By leveraging comprehensive product data, the innovative platform empowers equipment operators and maintenance professionals to make informed decisions customised to their specific requirements and operating conditions.

A series of simple prompts and dropdown menus guides users through the lubricant selection process, considering factors such as equipment type, operating conditions, and environmental considerations. Based on this input, the platform generates specific recommendations for the equipment in the customer’s fleet.

With its user-friendly interface and intuitive design, the Oil Chooser simplifies the complex task of lubricant selection, eliminating guesswork and uncertainty. Whether choosing a hydraulic fluid for a construction excavator or a gear oil for a front-end loader, users can rely on the platform to provide accurate and relevant recommendations quickly and efficiently.

By matching equipment specifications with the most appropriate lubricant formulations, the Oil Chooser maximises equipment performance and efficiency. Whether enhancing wear protection, minimising friction, or extending service intervals, the selected lubricants are tailored to deliver optimal results in terms of reliability, durability, and overall operational excellence.

Selecting the correct lubricant is not only vital for equipment performance but also to minimise maintenance costs and maximise asset longevity. By guiding users to choose the most suitable products for their specific applications, the Oil Chooser reduces the risk of premature component wear, downtime, and costly repairs, ultimately driving bottom-line savings for companies.

Barnard adds that FUCHS is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Oil Chooser promotes responsible resource management by recommending lubricants that meet or exceed industry standards for performance, efficiency, and environmental impact. By choosing FUCHS lubricants by means of the Oil Chooser, users can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Tate concludes that the Oil Chooser is a cinch for anyone to use, simply requiring the end user to input the of type of vehicle, make, and model, etc. “It then essentially provides you with all the information regarding the fluids and lubricants you need. If we do stock it, it will say contact your local OEM, or you can contact FUCHS directly for technical assistance.”