30 May How Lubrication Impacts Equipment Warranty
When it comes to maintaining industrial and heavy machinery, most companies understand the importance of regular service. However, many don’t realize that proper lubrication can directly affect the validity of their equipment warranty. In fact, poor lubrication practices are one of the leading causes of mechanical failures—and often a key reason why warranty claims are denied.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how lubrication impacts equipment warranty, the risks of neglecting lubrication schedules, and what your business can do to stay compliant. We’ll also explain how HYCO can help you protect your investment with the right lubrication equipment and expert support.
What Is an Equipment Warranty and Why Does It Matter?
An equipment warranty is a manufacturer’s promise to repair or replace defective components within a specific period, provided the equipment is used and maintained according to their terms. Warranties are essential for protecting your investment, especially when you rely on expensive machinery in industries like:
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Mining
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Construction
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Agriculture
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Manufacturing
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Logistics
But warranties usually come with conditions. One of the most overlooked conditions is proper maintenance, especially routine lubrication. If your lubrication practices don’t meet the required standards, your warranty claim may be rejected—even if the equipment is still within its warranty period.
Why Lubrication Is So Important to Warranties
Lubrication plays a vital role in machinery performance. It reduces friction, prevents wear, cools moving parts, and protects components from corrosion. Most equipment failures related to bearings, joints, and moving parts are caused by poor or incorrect lubrication.
Manufacturers Expect Lubrication to Be:
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Done at correct intervals
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Done with the correct type of lubricant
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Applied using proper equipment and methods
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Recorded and documented for verification
Neglecting any of these elements can violate warranty terms.
Top Reasons Warranty Claims Are Denied Due to Lubrication Issues
1. Incorrect Lubricant Used
Each machine is designed to work with specific lubricants based on viscosity, pressure, and environmental conditions. Using the wrong type can cause damage, and if the manufacturer finds this during inspection, your warranty could be voided.
Tip: Always refer to the equipment manual and consult lubrication experts like HYCO before switching products.
2. Over-Lubrication or Under-Lubrication
Too much or too little grease or oil can cause major problems. Over-lubrication can rupture seals and attract contaminants, while under-lubrication causes parts to wear out faster. Both can lead to breakdowns—and warranty denials.
Tip: Use calibrated grease guns or automated systems to ensure precise application. HYCO supplies both manual and air-powered grease guns for accurate delivery.
3. Inconsistent or Missed Lubrication Schedules
Skipping lubrication due to busy schedules or oversight can be a costly mistake. If a part fails and there’s no record of proper maintenance, the manufacturer can deny responsibility.
Tip: Implement a preventive maintenance schedule. HYCO offers technical support and training to help teams stay on track.
4. Lack of Maintenance Records
Even if your team did everything correctly, failing to keep proper records can hurt your warranty claim. Most warranties require proof of service, including lubrication dates, methods, and products used.
Tip: Maintain a simple logbook or digital maintenance app that tracks lubrication history. HYCO can guide you on best practices for record-keeping.
How to Protect Your Warranty with Good Lubrication Practices
The good news is that avoiding warranty issues is simple when you follow a few basic lubrication practices:
Use the Right Equipment
Invest in high-quality lubrication tools. Cheap, unreliable tools can over-apply or under-apply lubricant, wasting product and risking damage.
HYCO provides:
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Manual grease guns
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Pistol grip guns
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Air-powered systems
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Precision lubrication accessories
All our equipment is designed for accurate, efficient, and reliable application.
Choose the Right Lubricants
Select lubricants recommended by your equipment manufacturer. If you’re unsure, reach out to a knowledgeable supplier like HYCO.
We can help you choose:
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Correct grease types for your climate and load conditions
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Food-grade or biodegradable options for specific industries
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Lubricants suited for mining, agriculture, and manufacturing
Stick to a Schedule
Create a lubrication schedule for each machine based on manufacturer specs. This reduces risk and ensures components are always protected.
Train Your Team
Many lubrication problems occur because staff members aren’t trained on proper techniques. Overfilling, using the wrong nozzle, or contaminating the grease point can all cause damage.
HYCO offers training programs to teach your team safe and effective lubrication procedures.
Document Everything
Make it a habit to record every lubrication session. Include:
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Date and time
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Machine name and part number
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Lubricant used
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Tool used
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Name of technician
These records act as evidence if you ever need to file a warranty claim.
Real-World Example: A Costly Lesson in Missed Lubrication
One construction company operating in South Africa purchased a new front-end loader. Within six months, the bearings failed. The team assumed it would be covered under warranty—but the claim was denied. Why?
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The maintenance team had skipped a lubrication session during a busy period.
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There were no clear service records.
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The grease used wasn’t the one specified by the manufacturer.
The result: over R150,000 in repair costs that could have been avoided with better lubrication practices.
This story is not uncommon. At HYCO, we’ve seen many companies face avoidable losses due to simple lubrication mistakes. That’s why we work closely with clients to set up reliable maintenance systems that protect both machinery and warranties.
Why Choose HYCO for Lubrication Solutions
HYCO has been a trusted name in lubrication equipment and services since 1963. We supply the tools, knowledge, and support needed to ensure your equipment stays in top condition—and your warranty stays valid.
Here’s what sets us apart:
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Wide Range of Equipment: Manual, pneumatic, and precision grease guns, oil cans, and more
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Technical Support: One-on-one consultation for your lubrication needs
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Training Services: On-site or virtual sessions to teach your team the best practices
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South African Manufacturing: Over 75% of our products are made locally for quality and availability
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Industry Experience: Trusted by mining, manufacturing, construction, and agriculture companies across the region
Conclusion: Don’t Risk Your Warranty—Get Lubrication Right
Lubrication is more than just a maintenance task—it’s a vital part of protecting your equipment and keeping your warranty valid. By choosing the right tools, following a schedule, using proper products, and maintaining good records, your business can save time, money, and stress.
HYCO is here to help. Whether you need equipment, training, or expert advice, we provide complete lubrication solutions tailored to your industry.
Contact HYCO Today
📧 Email: sales@hyco.co.za
🌐 Website: www.hyco.co.za
📞 Phone: (011) 824-4280
Protect your investment. Trust HYCO for all your lubrication equipment and support needs.