The productivity package is standard on all new whole tree chippers and horizontal grinders, and is available as an option for the stump grinder and hand-fed chipper line.

Bandit Industries Inc. has added its productivity package, powered by MasterTrak, to its product offering. This asset management tool communicates directly with the engine and monitors engine and equipment problems, reducing costly, unexpected failures that impact the bottom line. The productivity package is standard on all new whole tree chippers and horizontal grinders, and is available as an option for the stump grinder and hand-fed chipper line. The MasterTrak Productivity Package also can be added to existing units out in the field.

Remote diagnostics provided by the productivity package have demonstrated savings in:

• Reduced breakdowns
• Improved preventive maintenance scheduling based on usage
• Improved vehicle utilization rates
• Reduced repair costs
• Improved technician productivity

The benefits of well-timed maintenance and parts replacements not only prevent job site machine failures, but also ensure a better price tag at the time of resale, according to the manufacturer.

The productivity package allows for run-time reports, which summarizes run hours and alarm counts, to quickly identify problems. An on-line display of equipment condition and alarm history helps reduce unnecessary trips to the site. Alert notifications assist in preventing equipment abuse by sending out automated email notifications for alarms and fault codes. The GPS Mapping feature, known as “Bread Crumbs”, allows tracking of machines from job to job, aides in theft recovery, and provides maps and driving directions for efficient logistics.

“This new option will be especially helpful in states with strict air quality control and emission standards,” said Ray Eluskie, marketing manager of Bandit Industries. “The productivity package automatically records run-time, travel logs and other information required by air quality agencies, saving you time and providing accurate logs.”

In addition to accurate tracking, the package also allows for monitoring of equipment maintenance from a remote location.

“Keeping tabs on the machine is as easy as looking at the screen, and monitoring, say, the radiator temperature,” Eluskie explained. “You see that the engine temperature is getting too hot, so you call your guy in the field and tell him, ’Hey, check that radiator screen, the engine is overheating.’

“You’re preventing a trip out to fix the machine, and preventing damage to the unit by monitoring its use at all times.”

Rental companies also will see the benefits, as they can keep an eye on their equipment’s position and key components from a distance, according to the manufacturer.

“Rental customers can be rough on the equipment,” said Eluskie. “Adding the productivity package to Bandit chippers allows rental managers to keep a close eye on scheduled maintenance and the number of hours on the chipper.”

For more information, call 800/952-0178.

This story also appears on Forestry Equipment Guide.

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