BREAKDOWN OF TRACTOR PARTS IN GHANA: THE CASE OF GHANA HEAVY EQUIPMENT LIMITED (GHEL)

Kutsanedzie Felix, Ofori Victoria, Agyare Anthony Wilson

Abstract: Tractor breakdown can be very costly due to loss of work. The objective of this study was to identify tractor parts that frequently broke down; determine the readily availability of spare parts; cost of repairs and whether clients are provided with guidelines. The focus of study was on Ghana Heavy Equipment Limited of which two branches (Accra and Tamale) were used to collect data for the study. Data was collected using questionnaires and written job cards from company. The study showed that the company dealt with Zetor tractors because of its durability and availability of spare parts. The study also indicated that the oil seals, clutch master cylinder, hub bearing and clutch system break down frequently. The study showed that cost of spare parts for servicing and repairs were higher in Tamale than in Accra and this might be due to transportation. It was therefore recommended that operators should not over work machine capacity; and adhere to manufacturers and operators manuals to minimize breakdown. In order to minimize and reduce cost of repairs, tractor operators should service their tractors regularly to increase the life span of the tractor.

Keywords: tractors, heavy equipment, breakdown, maintenance, repairs

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15623/ijret.2015.0406082