A guy in a Chicago high-rise told me something that stuck with me

I was working on a traction machine in a 40-story building downtown last year, and the building's head engineer, a guy named Frank, was watching me. After I finished, he said, 'You know, the best mechanics listen to the elevator first, before they even open the door.' He meant you can tell a lot from the sound of the motor and the ride quality. I've tried to do that ever since. Has anyone else had a simple piece of advice like that change their routine?

3 comments

3 Comments

clark.claire16d ago

My old boss said listen for the clicks.

diana8291mo ago

Frank's advice about listening first is really smart. What specific SOUNDS tell you the most, like a hum versus a grind? I bet you pick up on stuff most people never notice.

the_xena1mo ago

Frank taught me that a steady hum means normal wear, but any change in pitch is a warning. A grind is always bad news, metal on metal with no oil. What sounds make you stop and check your own equipment right away?