For machines working all day, lubrication may be needed as often as once a day, and in some situations, automatic lubrication systems can make sense. And while frequent greasing does require an investment in time and money, in the long run, it pays for itself. "Spend a few dollars for grease, rather than hundreds or thousands of dollars for a new cylinder or axle or whatever component wears outs," says Peacock.

Components such as chains on a lift and place machine will need to be adjusted. "Make sure all the chains are under the same amount of tension. If one stretches and the other doesn't, then you shift the load onto just one chain," says Blower. "When one chain does all the work and suddenly fails, it puts a shock load onto the second chain. Then that one can fail because of the shock load and the whole thing can come down."

The parking brake is another area that is commonly overlooked. Check the cable and adjust it if necessary to ensure it will work when needed.

And don't forget to check the tires. "Tires are probably one of the more common wear items on telehandlers," says Brian Boeckman, JLG, "especially if the machines are being used on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt."

If you're renting the machine, determine who is responsible for PM tasks. "A few rental houses do service their own equipment, rather than relying on the renter," says Blower. But if the responsibility falls onto you, make sure it's included in the operator's routine. "If one of the main pivots seizes on a rental unit, and the rental company can prove that it's due to a lack of maintenance, you can be held responsible for the repairs."