How to Properly Install and Maintain Albion Casters

Keeping business equipment running smoothly is a priority for many business owners. Regular inspections and lubrication can ensure that all hardware works correctly and that the wheels are lasting as long as possible.

Choosing the Right Caster

You must consider several factors when choosing a new caster or replacing casters on existing furniture. These include determining the type of flooring you have, whether or not you require a brake, and other special features.

Generally, you want to choose a caster that matches the weight of your load. If you overestimate the weight, it could result in sudden failure of the casters and damage to the equipment or personal injury.

In addition, if you plan on using your casters on rough floors or other demanding applications, consider adding a brake. Brakes help to stabilize the load and prevent it from moving too quickly, which can lead to damage or injuries. Many Albion casters offer one or more brakes to help you with these applications. They also offer a wide range of wheel materials to suit your needs. These options can range from rubber, polyurethane, or steel wheels.

Installing the Caster

Once a month, business owners should start by turning their equipment on its side and inspecting the hardware that holds the caster in place. If nuts, bolts, screws, or rivets are loose, they must be tightened or replaced.

If the caster is out of alignment (caster angle settings), it will cause uneven or inconsistent wheel and suspension behavior. This can lead to premature caster and bearing failure and poor equipment maneuverability.

When drilling a hole for the caster, use a drill bit that is approximately 50% of the bolt diameter to avoid stripping the threads. Installing or removing stem casters is advisable to use a socket wrench with the correct size. If you’re using a wrench, applying some grease to the threads is recommended to avoid them stripping. Once the caster is in place, it is essential not to over-tighten it as this can damage the furniture or object.

Maintaining the Caster

It’s essential to check the caster wheels on your equipment regularly. This will help identify potential problems like damaged or broken wheels that can lead to safety issues. It can also save money on repairs or replacements if problems are caught before they get worse.

Caster is a suspension term that refers to the angle between your upper and lower steering pivot points (or “ball joints”). It’s only visible on vehicle sides and significantly affects how your vehicle drives.

Replacement Casters

When replacing casters, take critical measurements to ensure the new ones fit. This will ensure the overall height is the same as the existing casters and doesn’t create an uneven rolling unit.

If you want to avoid damage to hard floor surfaces, choose feet designed for that purpose. These casters can still roll on carpeted floors but are meant to save your hard floor surfaces from unnecessary wear and tear.