Exploring the nuances of maintaining old elevator machinery.

Carlos Escobar joins Morgan for a deep dive into the world of legacy elevators, shedding light on his new venture, Legacy Elevator Consulting. With nearly three decades in the elevator industry, Carlos reflects on the importance of preserving older machines, not just as relics, but as valuable assets with potential for continued use.

Why Legacy?

Carlos explains that the term "legacy" serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it refers to the aging elevator machines that need careful assessment. On the other, it speaks to his personal legacy as the child of an elevator professional.

"I feel like it's worth building and promoting a legacy through old equipment."

He emphasizes the need to keep these old machines operational, particularly those over a century old.

The Knowledge Gap

As Carlos points out, there's a generational loss of expertise in the elevator industry.

"We’re losing a lot of expertise. It seems to me that... we need to institutionalize some of that tribal knowledge."

This gap creates a challenge for those looking to repair or maintain legacy equipment, making Carlos's role as an objective consultant even more crucial.

The Evaluation Process

Carlos explains his methodical approach to assessing legacy machines. He often gets called in to provide a second opinion when building owners are told their equipment is beyond repair.

"My goal is to sniff out the issue and figure out what is repairable."

His process involves measuring various metrics, such as vibration and temperature, to build a comprehensive understanding of the machine's condition.

Innovations in Assessment

Carlos integrates traditional techniques with modern technology, using tools that can fit in a backpack. He discusses how he utilizes oil samples and various sensors to gather data on machine health.

"The little treasure hunt is always figuring out which tools and technologies can back into numbers that you'd expect."

This blend of old and new ensures that even the oldest machines can be assessed effectively.

The Role of AI

Carlos is also keen on leveraging AI to enhance his consulting services. By automating administrative tasks, he can focus more on the technical evaluations that matter.

"AI can process so much information... I want to build a system that alleviates me from doing all the administrative work."

This promises to free up time for deeper analysis and better service delivery.

In conclusion, Carlos Escobar's journey into legacy elevator consulting illustrates the intersection of personal passion and professional expertise. By preserving the knowledge of older elevator systems, he's not only maintaining equipment but also honoring a legacy that spans generations.

For a deeper understanding of Carlos's methods and insights, check out the full episode.