WorldWide Drilling Resource

48 AUGUST 2015 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® As WWDR ’s April 2015 issue was circulating around the globe, I received a phone call regarding an article I’d put together titled, An Age-Old Question (about making the right decision to repair or replace older equipment). When I picked up the phone that day, it was none other than Fred McAninch, a.k.a. The Rig Doctor, on the line. I am always happy to hear from readers and I was especially glad Mr. McAninch took the time to weigh in. He kindly told me there was another option to consider when an older machine needs attention, but isn’t quite ready for the junkyard. It’s more than repairing; it’s RESTORING. A restoration brings a piece of equipment back to its glory days of operation and in some cases, can make it perform better than it ever did. Major overhauls can be planned several months or even a year or more in advance. The Rig Doctor made a great point: It’s a good idea to plan restorations for winter months (which will be here before you know it). Since many rigs are shut down during this season anyway, less working time is lost while the machine gets a makeover. You can also get a fairly close estimate of what the restoration job will cost and preplan your finances accordingly. The photos in this article show a recent restoration by The Rig Doctor. David Register of Register Wel l Company in Rose Hi l l , North Carolina, had this 1972 Failing Model 1250 rig restored for about one third of a new rig’s price tag. If you have a rough diamond of a rig you want to polish up, consider upgrading safety features while you’re at it. The images to the right show just a few of the upgrades made to Register’s rig. In addition to rebuilding the rig’s pumps, some safety improvements included revamping a weak brake system and replacing the power take-off (PTO) box. The possibilities for breathing life into a classic rig are virtually endless. Since these photos were taken, even more improvements have been made to this machine. So, next time you look out over the lot containing your equipment, think twice before letting that timeworn gem leave the yard forever. With a plan and a little TLC, a trusty old machine can go from good to wonderful without breaking the bank. Bringin’ it Back by Amy White, Associate Editor WorldWide Drilling Resource ® with Information Provided by The Rig Doctor, Fred McAninch and Register Well Company restore - 1. to bring back to a state of health, soundness, or vigor. 2. to bring back to existence; reestablish. 3. to bring back to a former, original, or normal condition, as a building, statue, painting, or drill rig. Photos courtesy of the Rig Doctor