BRIAN THORNTON of Equipment ?
ASPHALT ANSWERS
Is Now the Right Time ... for A New Piece
BRIAN THORNTON of Equipment ?
2024 has certainly been a great year to be in the asphalt business . According to many operators we hear from , backlogs remain strong , and new business continues to pour in . As a manufacturer , we continue to juggle workforce issues , raw material volatility , and parts shortages , all while demand remains high . What should be a time of deciding what machines you may need to invest in for tax purposes has turned into a juggling act of forecasting work and finding a machine . What used to be an easy job of heading to your local dealer ’ s showroom floor and kicking tires , could rely on the next shipment . So , what is a smart business owner to do ? While the answer is not an easy one , the solution doesn ’ t have to keep you up at night . Now more than ever you must rely on relationships . Relationships with your colleagues in the industry , relationships with the factories , and most importantly relationships with the local dealerships . This month let ’ s discuss the thought process that goes into looking at asphalt equipment and the pitfalls that come with that process . Like every other business decision , there is not one clear cut answer for every contractor . Every situation is different , and every solution is different .
Do you rebuild your current equipment ?
While the newest models might seem appealing , your current machine might just need a makeover . Asphalt paving equipment , especially the paver , is different than any other piece of construction equipment . The continuous heating and cooling of components , not to mention working with hot materials in the middle of summer , takes its toll on the steel and rubber hose components that make up the machine . The winter months are a perfect time to consult with your local equipment dealer to do you ’ re rebuild . The shops are less busy and under less of a time crunch so it ’ s the prime time . Many times , just a tune-up of the components is all you will need to stretch the life of your machine . A qualified , factory trained technician can look at your equipment and quickly tell how deep they will need to go .
Is a used machine the way to go ?
The used equipment market is hot right now . While there are many great machines on the market , there are quite a few out there that just have a “ new paint overhaul .” But how are you to know the difference ? Many dealers keep a good number of used machines in stock when they can , and often offer a “ certified pre-owned ” type of guarantee with these machines . But many times , the machine you are looking at is at a 3rd party or perhaps , a private seller . In this case , you must know what you are looking at or know someone who does . Never be afraid to take a qualified set of eyes with you when you inspect a machine . And just like with anything else , be ready to walk away if something doesn ’ t seem right . An experienced technician can often visually inspect a machine and know what should be done before putting your investment to work . Remember , if the price seems too good to be true , it probably is .
When is a new machine the right decision ?
In many cases , you may decide that you will need a new piece of asphalt equipment . This is where your relationships pay dividends . Dealers are selling new machines as fast as they come in and with your relationship , they know what you ’ ll need when you need it and can work with the factory to make sure they know your needs . Many dealers have forecasted properly and have a stock of machines on order and will put your name on the right machine for you . The trap you don ’ t want to get caught in is buying a machine that ’ s not just right for you , just to buy something . That will never pay off and will cause more problems than solutions . Hopefully your dealer has what you are looking for in stock , but if not , work with your salesperson to attend the right show , or make a visit to the manufacturer so a great decision can be made . Demonstrating the machine you are considering , is by far , the best and can help you make sure that what you think you need is , in fact , the machine for your business today and three years down the road . There ’ s no magic wand or catch all solution . The best business solution in this marketplace is to plan smart by planning for the future . Talk to dealers , talk to colleagues and do your research so that when the 2025 season starts , you are ready to hit the asphalt running .
Brian Thornton is a Governmental Sales Manager with LeeBoy . He can be reached at brian . thornton @ LeeBoy . com .
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