Flapan Conveyor repairs

[autospa95]

Located one hour west of Chicago. Have a 20 year old Flapan conveyor. Looking for someone who has experience working on these conveyors to complete repairs on drive section and take up section. Would like to get 3-5 more years out of this conveyor before removing/replacing with new. Also looking for replacement parts. Just found out 3G Enterprises (Flapan distributor) has closed their doors. Any suggestions?

 

[Earl Weiss]

Have a guy, He's pretty busy with installs now. But I will tell you I replaced my last of 3 Flapan conveyors this year. The rot had gotten so bad it was costing Thousands a couple of times a year to rebuild. I now have 4 AVW conveyors.

I would expect the rot and deterioration on a 20 year old unit is as bad as mine was or worse. I doubt repairs will be cost effective over 3 years.

 

[autospa95]

Earl, you're probably right but I'm going to gamble and have bottom two shelves re-lined with new flat stock (local welder), and replace all bearings, parts, etc. at drive end and take up end. Hoping this will buy me 3-5 years before purchasing/installing brand new conveyor. When you had your Flapan conveyors, did you purchase replacement parts (drive shaft, sprockets, bearings, lift arms, etc.) from some place other than 3G Enterprises? You're obviously a fan of AVW conveyors if you've purchase/installed four of them. Are they easier to work on/repair/replace parts than the old Flapan conveyors ?

 

[Earl Weiss]

Sent you a PM with contact for Someone who knows the Flapan Conveyors inside and out. Flapans had lots of components and were a workhorse. AVW is simpler design. East to work on. Time will tell how they hold up. Last one I got was the model with the thicker components. Order Steel hinge as opposed to rubber hinge exit door if you get one. They are close by and in a pinch I can call, go there get a part and return in 90 minutes if I need something.

 

[autospa95]

Thanks for your help Earl. I'll give him a call.