Is It Safe to Modify Equipment Without Manufacturer Approval? Seeking Your Experiences and Advice

Modification of Equipment: Seeking Advice

I have a question regarding the modification of equipment. I know we cannot modify any equipment without the manufacturer's approval, as it's clearly addressed in all equipment and machinery manuals.

Example: If a company vehicle is involved in an accident, my understanding is that we cannot modify anything without the manufacturer's approval. However, in most cases, we proceed with modifications without the manufacturer's advice, as long as we believe it's safe to operate or work.

Has anyone been in the above-mentioned situation?

Whatever the case, if it comes to legal matters, the concerned person could face serious consequences. How can we protect our company and employees from such situations?

Instead of making modifications to the equipment/machinery ourselves, we can approach the manufacturer for such modifications. We can explain the situation that necessitates these modifications along with proper justification. Surely, the manufacturer will assist you in resolving the issue, and it will be beneficial for the manufacturer to introduce the corrected model/version of the equipment/machinery.

Thank you.

Regards,

I strongly agree with you. For example, if our two-wheeler meets an accident, what will we do? We should get it to the nearest workshop for repairs, and we may even need to weld it if required. This is similar to what happens in most industries.

Let's hear the views of our members on this matter.

Thanks for your input, sir.

Regards

Repairing the two-wheeler and welding/soldering of some parts will not be considered a modification. If you modify the superstructure or make any modifications to the engine without the manufacturer's concurrence, and when it comes to the manufacturer's knowledge, then only will they file a case against you for modifying their product.

Regards,

To elaborate on S. Bhaskar's comments, the example you referred to was a 'maintenance' issue while you seem to be referring to a 'modification' issue. Rather than discussing by way of examples, I suggest mentioning the EXACT situation that you are facing—that would surely lead to a solution.

Regards,
TS

Understanding Equipment Modifications and Warranty Implications

Manufacturers need to specify what constitutes a modification. In layman's terms, any alteration that will hinder functioning, put a load beyond specification, damage the machinery, or may cause injury to the operator should be avoided. These actions will absolve the manufacturer from the warranty clause. If a modification is made for ease of use without tampering with moving parts, electronic components, or basic programming, then there should be no problem. It is advisable to seek clarification from the manufacturer to ensure that it does not void the warranty.

Regards,
Suresh Rathi

Dear TS, I just came to know that many people are experiencing similar problems in the construction business because most of them hire vehicles/equipment from vendors (rental). Many local vendors have such issues (modifying equipment). Most of the time, we cannot address these issues during our inspections as well. That's why I raised this question. Anyhow, thanks for your input on this thread.

Thank you for your input. Yes, whenever we purchase equipment, the manufacturer provides a manual that clearly addresses all the modification-related details. The problem is that most small-scale industries or rented vehicles face such issues when we rent the vehicles. Thank you for the input. Keep in touch.

Dear Raghu, In the construction industry, Hydra Cranes are being used largely for shifting materials from one place to another. However, it is not safe to shift the same with a Hydra. The Hydra can be used only for material loading and unloading by parking the Hydra in one place (in a static condition). The matter has been taken up with the manufacturers. That's the reason they have modified the same, and the latest version can be used for shifting materials as well. Wherever we face a problem, we have to inform the manufacturer, and obviously, the same will be rectified by the manufacturer.

Transit Mixers Update

The Transit Mixers made by Ashok Leyland with Bhai/Swing Stettor Transit mixer had developed some cracks in the main body, which were purchased during 1988-89. However, afterwards, the same was rectified, and now the Transit Mixers coming into the market are perfectly matching the requirements of the construction industry.

Modification Guidelines

Any modification in the superstructure must be made only by the manufacturers and not by the user. However, as a part of maintenance and repair, we can rectify the same as per our requirements.

Kind regards

Dear Raghu, A good discussion has already taken place on your query. I thought of adding my inputs as well.

Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) for Heavy Earth Moving Vehicles

Many companies provide Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) to manufacturers of Heavy Earth Moving Vehicles. The AMC representative will always be present on-site. So, whenever there is a need for modification or repair, the AMC personnel will take care of it. This means that company employees will not be held responsible for any further issues.

Common Practices in Indian Companies

However, in typical Indian companies, AMCs are not common. They may have their own mechanical workshops where such modifications and repairs are carried out. This is a common practice in India.

Considerations for Your Workplace

The situation may be different in your workplace, where you might consider having an AMC or always contacting manufacturers for repairs. It's important to give clear instructions to all employees not to handle such repairs internally.

I hope this helps clarify the situation for you. Let me know if you have any questions.

Best regards