Got a question about your Ergo-Express® Motorized Tug? We asked our customer support team about your frequently asked questions. Here are the answers.
How do I keep my tug clean?
The best way to keep your tug clean is to wipe it down periodically. Use a soft cloth, warm water, and mild detergent. CaviWipe™ type cleaners can also be used to clean your tug.
Never use abrasive tools like wire brushes or steel wool to clean your tug. This can damage the powder coat. Do not spray any liquid on the tug. Always test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous spot before using them to clean the whole tug.
What is the proper way to charge my tug?
At PHS West we have a saying, “when it is not in use, give it some juice”. Our tugs use AGM batteries which like to be charged frequently. Keeping your tug topped off will give it extra run time during the day and also keep the batteries healthier.
Fully charging the tug for about eight hours between work shifts is also vital and will improve the lifespan of your batteries. The tug also features a smart charger that will never overcharge your batteries. Long story short, plug your tug in anytime it is not being used for best results.
When do I need to replace the batteries?
Rechargeable AGM batteries are very convenient but do have a finite lifespan and will need to be replaced eventually. When a replacement will be needed depends primarily on two factors:
- Adherence to proper charging practice
- Frequency and intensity of use
The most important factor when it comes to battery lifespan is your charging practices. Batteries that are left undercharged or drained completely on a regular basis will deteriorate faster than batteries that are charged fully and frequently. Intense work cycles that deplete the batteries on a regular basis will also reduce battery lifespan.
PHS West recommends that your tug’s batteries be replaced annually to ensure consistency and mitigate potential downtimes.
Why is annual maintenance important?
Just like a car needs its oil changed and tires rotated, your tug needs routine maintenance to keep it running to your expectations. We build our tugs from the highest quality materials but wear and tear is an inevitability for any machine. Wheels lose tread. Bearings need grease. Batteries get old. Addressing these needs with an annual preventative maintenance inspection prevents these small fixes from growing into larger issues.
Need a hand with your tug’s annual maintenance? Contact PHS West’s friendly and responsive technical support team.
What is the lifespan of my tug?
This question is directly tied to the previous questions answered in this FAQ. It is entirely possible for an Ergo-Express® product to last ten years with proper care. Keeping your tug clean, charging the batteries consistently, and performing annual maintenance will go a long way towards ensuring the longevity of your investment. It is like the difference between a car that is brought in for regular service versus one that is constantly neglected. The car that is receiving proper care will last longer because small, easily addressable fixes are being identified and taken care of before they become problems. It is the same story with your tug. The better the care it receives, the longer it will last.
If you have any questions about taking care of your tug, please do not hesitate to contact us.