Rig Service Companies Extend Machine Life by a Decade

When you've built a business around direct push technology, you learn how to get the most out of your equipment. For Geo Logic Inc. that meant upgrading a trusted machine versus replacing it.

"We were an early Geoprobe^® adopter," Dennis Samsel, owner/operator, said. "When the 7720DT went away, we bought our first 7822DT, which was a better machine."

A Shifting Business, A Consistent Workhorse

Geo Logic's portfolio has transformed significantly during the past decade from an almost exclusively environmental operation into a balanced enterprise.

"Now we're an even split between environmental and geotechnical when it comes to revenue; probably more like 60 percent geotechnical when it comes to volume of work," Samsel said. "We're fortunate in our area to have shallow bedrock, so even with a bigger conventional rig, it's hard to beat the 7822DT for most of our work."

Upgrade Instead of Replace

With a full-time mechanic handling preventative maintenance and modest repairs, the team knew their 7822DT v1 was reaching a crossroads. Already operating a v2 model they liked, the upgrade path through the Geoprobe^® Southeast Service Center (SESC) became clear when they learned about the v1.5 option.

"The upgrade basically gave us 90 percent of what we liked on our v2 on our v1," Samsel said. "They updated the control panel, replaced electrical, and installed a new fuse block assembly."

One factor sealed the deal: the original engine was running strong.

"This option appealed to me because we'd had good luck with the motor and this allowed us to stay away from DEF issues," Samsel said. "Anything running diesel these days struggles when EPA restricts emissions. This engine wasn't having issues, so we decided to invest in our investment. We had taken care of the machine — it just needed some attention other than the engine."

Results That Exceeded Expectations

Samsel is confident about the machine's future.

"The machine has at least another 10 years of life after the new electrical system," he said. "I also opted for new hydraulic cooling fans. I believe when you have cool hydraulic oil, you'll have a good day."

Back in the field, the upgraded rig has proven itself.

"The upgrade improved reliability. We're not constantly troubleshooting switches and fans," Samsel said. "Now the guys aren't fighting over who gets the 7822DT v2."

Rig Service Companies Advantage

When it comes to the Geoprobe^® Southeast Service Center, the owner has found a solution that works for everyone, including his family.

"I mean, I like Kansas, but I can't seem to get my family excited to visit," Samsel said. "But if I say, 'Hey, let's drop this rig off in Ocala and then go to Orlando,' they're on board."

Beyond the travel perks, there's a practical reason the owner trusts any Geoprobe^® rig service companies with his equipment.

"With Geoprobe^® rigs, they're not cobbled together or one-offs. There's a system with pre-engineered components to be assembled, so there's no reason to hesitate taking the rig to any of their rig service companies," Samsel said. "Even if the SESC guys in Ocala don't have the answers, they can contact service or engineering in Kansas to resolve the issue."