Month to Plan lane machine maintenance

When the winds and snow of winter begin to wane, it’s time to start planning your summer maintenance on your lane machine. Inspect the machine now and plan to purchase any needed parts prior to the end of the busy winter league season.

Most well-maintained machines might only need a tune-up kit. Others may have gone years with little to no maintenance and a rebuild might be needed. Now is the time to decide what will be done to keep this critical piece of equipment running in top condition.

Kegel offers tune-up kits for almost every Kegel lane machine that has been manufactured. These kits will include the parts that most likely to need to be replaced. Belts, filters, cushion rollers and the buffer brush are just a few of the items that are included. The kits are assembled according to the lane machine model. You can learn more about each Tune Up Kit on our website: Tune-Up Kits

The tune-up kit for the most part is not difficult to install. It does take a good mechanical aptitude and a knowledge of basic hand tools. Instructions are included with each kit. Allow plenty of time replace the items in the kit.

If you are unclear about the installation of any part, you can consult the Kegel YouTube channel. There is a wealth of knowledge in the videos posted there. Click on the link to access our YouTube channel": https://www.youtube.com/@KegelBowling/videos

If you are still finding a component of the tune-up kit difficult to install or adjust, you can contact Kegel tech support at 1-800-280-2695.

In some cases, a lane machine might need to be rebuilt. This is a major undertaking and is best done by someone directly from Kegel, or an authorized Kegel distributor. A rebuild is also a great time to have any upgrades installed that might be needed as well. Upgrades can include hardware, electrical or software.

If the budget will not allow for a tune-up or rebuild, critical parts can be installed on a “as needed” basis. The most common parts are buffer brush, filters, cushion roller, squeegee blades and belts. On 115-volt machine, check the condition of the power cord.

Keep in mind that after a major rebuild or even a simple filter change you will need to monitor your lane conditions closely. Check the cleaner and oil volume and ensure any part that was changed is adjusted correctly.

Planning for the maintenance of your lane machine can prevent a crisis breakdown. It will also safeguard the lane conditions that your leagues and tournaments depend on. Order the parts and schedule the time to install them. Preventive maintenance is less costly than an emergency breakdown.