To keep your excavator in top working order, follow these simple maintenance tips. Start by checking the track tension. Next, inspect the fluids and the undercarriage. Also, check the gearbox and final drive sprockets. If they look slack, you should replace them. Finally, check the tires, which can take a beating over time.
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Checking track tension
Regardless of the type of excavator you own, you should check track tension daily. To ensure that your tracks are appropriately aligned, run the excavator for 30 minutes to acclimate to the working conditions. Checking track tension every 10 to 15 hours is recommended for all excavators.
Tighter tracks will allow your excavator to move more quickly on soft ground, while looser ones will be easier to work on firm surfaces. Additionally, you should check the shoes for the correct width. Too wide or narrow shoes will cause the excavator to sink and wear out faster. You may also consult your excavator engineer to guide you with this.
It is also essential to check the adjuster cylinder to ensure proper track tension. Track tension is maintained by grease in the adjuster cylinder. If the tracks are loose, you may need to adjust the tension with the help of a grease gun. If the track tension is too tight, you may need to make minor adjustments on the job site.
Regularly rotating the tracks helps prevent uneven wear and increases track tension. Ensure that both tracks are replaced, as only one track may be in good condition. Remember to rotate the tracks as needed, as changing them only one at a time may cause alignment problems or damage the undercarriage.
Checking fluids
Regularly check the engine oil and hydraulic fluids of your excavator. Make sure to change the oil every few months or so. Different brands have different oil change schedules, so consult the manual of your excavator for more specific details. Keeping the oil clean is also crucial because contaminated oil can cause hydraulic failures. To prevent these problems, keep your excavator well-lubricated at all times.
Apart from checking the oil levels and the air filter, owners must also check the tires’ air pressure, the hydraulic hoses, and the air system. They should also check the condition of the air filters and rubber tracks. Maintaining a logbook of these checks will help them in case of any warranty work. The logbook will also help them track the maintenance schedules. So, keep your excavator in tip-top working condition by checking its fluids.
Checking undercarriage
Performing a regular inspection of the undercarriage of an excavator is critical to ensuring that the machine is in top working condition. Undercarriage parts are subject to wear and tear while operating the machine. In addition, certain types of construction tasks can put a higher amount of stress on these components. The manufacturer’s manual provides essential information for operating an excavator.
Performing a daily inspection of the undercarriage is essential to maintaining the machine. It would be best to look for loose hardware, dry joints, and leaky seals. Additionally, it would be best if you looked for abnormal wear patterns. If you notice any of these problems, report them as soon as possible so that you can remedy the problem quickly. Also, remember that the undercarriage is the most vulnerable part of an excavator.
Checking gearbox
While most gearboxes are relatively simple to maintain, there are a few things you should look for to reduce the likelihood of failure. Temperature and noise are good indicators of problems, but periodic oil analysis can also reveal if the gear oil needs to be replaced. Frequent checks may even identify problems in the gears or bearings. In addition, periodic oil analysis helps you determine the interval for oil changes.
A slow acceleration could be caused by serious wear or smearing epoxy resin grease. Regardless of the cause, an excavator’s gearbox must meet specific climatic and environmental requirements. Different climates require different maintenance and checking and replacing gearbox oil are essential for maintaining the overall performance of the excavator.
If you’re having problems with your excavator’s gearbox, it’s crucial to check its temperature. The sump oil temperature can rise to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and degrade the oil in your gearbox. It will also cause gear and bearing wear and reduce the life of your seals. If it’s running too hot, it’s probably best to change it.
Checking lubrication
Checking fluid levels and changing filters can prevent efficiency losses. Keeping these parts clean and free from dirt and debris can prevent breakdowns. In addition, lubrication helps prevent corrosion in critical components. Therefore, checking fluids and filters are crucial to your tractor or excavator’s overall performance.
When checking lubrication, check all essential parts of the system. You should pay special attention to the slewing ring and reversing fan. Checking these parts often can help identify potential problems before they happen. Also, inspect the boom structure and stick for wear and damage. If you spot any of these problems, contact your service company and have them repaired or replaced. Make sure the warning labels on your excavator are legible and visible.