Excavators are heavy-duty equipment used to dig deep holes for construction. They have a lot of moving parts and need to be maintained to prevent costly repairs. For this reason, you must follow these 7 methods to keep your excavator in shape so it can last as long as possible.
1) Lubrication
One of the most important things to keep your excavator in shape is proper lubrication. This will ensure that all the parts are moving smoothly and there are no sticking points where components have trouble disengaging from each other. If these sticky spots are not caught, they can cause expensive damage or even breakage. Inspecting your equipment and lubricating all moving parts no less than once a month is an excellent way to keep your excavator in shape.
Additionally, you will not want to overlook the oil and filters. If they are still clean after removing them from the machine, they can be reused; however, you should replace them if they look dirty or cruddy.
2) Check Hydraulics
The hydraulics on an excavator is responsible for lifting and moving the boom, bucket, swing arms, and other components. For this reason, it is important to make sure that there isn’t any leakage or dripping occurring as a result of cracks in these hydraulic lines. If you see evidence of leaking around the tank area, check all hoses and make sure they are properly fastened.
If the lines seem to be in good condition, but there is still leakage, you should replace them as soon as possible because it could lead to a dangerous situation if something goes wrong while using your excavator. Look for signs of wear or damage that would indicate that replacement is necessary. Also, check for any signs of corrosion as this can result from exposure to moisture and could affect the hydraulic pump.
3) Inspect Tracks and Tires
One of the most important things to keep your excavator in shape is checking on its tracks. They need to be properly greased with a lubrication gun or similar tool, which you can purchase at any hardware store. Check for cracks, broken teeth, and damage that would make it difficult to roll smoothly across surfaces as this could result in costly repairs.
Similarly, you will want to inspect the tires as well for any damage or wear and tear that could lead to a blowout while using your excavator. Once again, it is best to replace them when necessary so there can be no mistakes associated with trying to use them past their prime. If one seems flat, check for air leaks or other problems preventing the tire from being used.
4) Check Hydraulic Hoses
The hydraulic hoses on an excavator are responsible for moving the boom, bucket, and other components. For this reason, it is important to make sure that there isn’t any leakage or dripping occurring as a result of cracks in these hydraulic lines. If you see evidence of leaking around the tank area, check all hoses and make sure they are properly fastened.
If the lines seem to be in good condition, but there is still leakage, you should replace them as soon as possible because it could lead to a dangerous situation if something goes wrong while using your excavator. Look for signs of wear or damage that would indicate that replacement is necessary. Also, check for any signs of corrosion as this can result from exposure to moisture and could affect the hydraulic pump.
5) Check the Boom
To keep your excavator in shape, you will want to inspect and maintain the boom. The cylinders need to be free of any dirt or debris that can clog them up, so they are not working properly while using your machine. Look for signs of wear on all components, as this could impact how smoothly it operates during use. Check for clamp damage and look at the hydraulic lines to make sure that they are properly fastened.
If there is any evidence of cracks, dents, or other issues, you will want to replace these components before using your excavator again, as it can be a dangerous situation if left unattended over time.
6) Check Excavator Teeth
As you inspect your excavator, make sure to check the teeth on it as well. The bucket and other components need to be free of any dirt or debris that can clog them up, so they are not working properly while using your machine. Look for signs of wear on all components, as this could impact how smoothly it operates during use. Check for clamp damage and look at the hydraulic lines to make sure that they are properly fastened.
If there is any evidence of cracks, dents, or other issues, you will want to replace these components before using your excavator again, as it can be a dangerous situation if left unattended over time.
7) Check the Hydraulic System
The last thing you will want to do is inspect your hydraulic system, as this can also play a major role in keeping it working properly. Since there are many different components involved with hydraulics, make sure they all work together and that none of them seem to be malfunctioning or sticking at any point during normal use. If you see any problems with the hoses, fastenings, or other components, it is best to replace them before using your excavator again.
By following these tips for keeping your excavator in shape, there will be no need for expensive repairs later on down the road. You can follow along with this handy infographic that shows how to keep your excavator in shape.
About the Guest Author
Eric Reyes is a passionate thought leader having been featured in 50 distinguished online and offline platforms. His passion and knowledge in Finance and Business made him a sought-after contributor providing valuable insights to his readers. You can find him reading a book and discussing current events in his spare time.
