Since some people seem to be born with natural tinkering skills, it is probably difficult for them to resist the urge to "mess around" with bucket truck parts. It is pretty normal to tweak some parts here and there, like adjusting the tire pressure or perhaps installing a new set of side mirrors. If there are heavy modifications and/or repairs that need to be performed, these may be jobs that require the expertise of a good, qualified and certified mechanic.

These vehicles are designed with safety as the number one concern due to the delicate applications they perform. Even the slightest mechanical failure due to improperly serviced parts could have catastrophic results. For "do-it-yourself" people, following is a list of some of the things that can be done to the vehicle without the expertise of the professionals as well as some things that are better left to the professional mechanics.

Basic Maintenance

Bucket truck operators with knowledge and training on routine vehicle maintenance can carry out some of the regular servicing on it since the basic truck is much like any regular vehicle. Regular maintenance routine such as engine oil and filter replacement, refilling coolant in the radiator, regulating tire pressure, and refilling brake fluid to name a few can be done by a knowledgeable operator.

When performing maintenance on the basic truck, stay free from danger by observing safety guidelines. Make sure that the engine, as well as some of the truck’s other internal components such as the dip stick or the radiator cap, has already cooled down before opening the hood. Always make sure that proper protection such as gloves, mask and protective goggles are worn when servicing the vehicle. The oil used to lubricate the engine is a carcinogen and so contact with any parts of the body should be avoided. When inspecting the vehicle’s underside, never rely on a hydraulic jack alone to lift it. Put additional support stands, along with the hydraulic jack, to secure the vehicle to keep it from falling.

Servicing the Boom

Particular parts of this vehicle where servicing and repairing is extremely technical, particularly the boom and its hydraulic system, should be restricted from untrained personnel as these parts are very crucial to the vehicle’s safe operation. Leaking hydraulic hoses may also contain high pressure that could cause injury if not property relieved prior to disassembly. When damage occurs on the boom, hydraulic system or outriggers, an authorized mechanic should be brought in to assess the damage and perform the necessary repairs. In cases where a crack develops on the boom, welding should only be done by a qualified welder in a manner that meets ANSI regulations for welding booms.

Modifications

At some point, a worker may have thoughts about modifying the bucket truck. ANSI strongly recommends that no modifications be made to the vehicle without first securing review and approval from the vehicle’s manufacturer. Modifying this truck, particularly any part of its boom, bucket and controls, could affect the safety features that are originally designed by the manufacturer to keep workers or operators safe. Removing significant markings on the truck such as its capacity rating and control markings are also forbidden.

People who are considering changing bucket truck parts on their own should first review the items listed above. Some parts can be serviced by a qualified operator; however, there are other components that are better left to the experts. Be safe and don’t DIY with bucket truck parts!