Contractors who employ thermoplastic and paint striping equipment are well aware of the main difference between the two operations - heat. Since thermoplastic is applied at temperatures in the area of 400˚F, maintaining the parts that supply and monitor the heat take top priority.

Yet, as Steve Shinners, vice president of sales for MRL Equipment Co., points out, "Thermoplastic handliner maintenance is often overlooked because the unit has no engine, no hydraulics, no pressure tanks, and no high-pressure pumps like most paint striping equipment. These units can cost over $10,000 with a full set of dies so it is important they receive regular attention."

There are a number of key systems that should be checked prior to spring startup (and on a regular basis once the striping seasons gets underway). For spring startup:

• On LP gas system check for LP gas leaks at all LP connections and fittings. Spreading soapy water on suspect areas will help detect leaks.
• Check the LP main ring burner to see if any of the LP jets show blockage or are not burning. An even flame from all jets is what you should be looking for. Repair as needed. If unit has an automatic temperature control system, check to see that the safety pilot light is working properly.
• Clean all thermoplastic dies by soaking them in an approved solution, such as an orange citrus solution. Replace die springs as needed.
• Check carbide die runners for wear, replace as needed. Worn runners can affect line thickness, quality.
• Wheel bearings and wheels: Grease all wheel bearings. String a straight line and push the handliner to ensure that it tracks straight. Adjust wheel mounts as needed to get the unit to track straight. Check wheels for wear; replace as needed.
• The steel plate located under the handliner protects the thermoplastic holding tank from the direct flame of the burner system. If the plate is warped, replace it.
• Empty last year's beads if they are still in the bead box. Examine the bead dispenser roller and "wiper" for wear. Lightly oil moving parts. Blow clean with compressed air.
• Check ceramic heating elements that heat the die and material discharge port for cracks or damage. Replace as needed.
• Check control handles to make sure they are straight and free from binding. Adjust linkage as needed.
• Make sure the unit has its thermoplastic filter strainer, which catches debris from the pre-melter before it can get caught in the application die. Replace if needed.

Daily regimen, too
After you've prepared your handliner for spring, don't put your tools away, says Shinners. It still needs to be checked on a regular basis. Marvin Mayle, equipment specialist for M-B Companies agrees. "Operators should give their handliner a good 'going over' everyday," says Mayle. "They should check burners to ensure jets are not plugged and tighten any loose hardware and fittings. I also advise them to check the LP gas fittings for leaks at least once a week if not more often."

Like Shinners, he suggests making the check by simply spraying a window cleaner or soapy water solution on the connections and watching for air bubbles, similar to checking for air leaks in a tire. If there's a leak, the connection needs to be fixed before the unit is fired up.