How to troubleshoot issues on mini excavator? Don’t let their small size fool you; tiny excavators need just as much maintenance as their bigger counterparts. However, much like other heavy machinery, tiny excavators too have issues that need to be resolved.
The following list of small excavator issues has to be addressed:
- Monitor your level of stress.
One of the most frequently neglected service areas that affects small excavators is track tension. The majority of them feature rubber tracks, which maintenance personnel must adjust properly to prolong their lifespan and reduce wear on the track and its parts. A loose track may hasten wear, adding to downtime and stopping production while a new track is installed. On the other side, a track that is too tight might tear the rubber material and cause the traction motors, sprockets, and front idlers to wear out much more quickly. Operators should constantly consult the operator’s handbook and frequently check the track sag measurement to make sure the track tension is right.
- Apply grease to it.
All pins and bushings depend on grease, which is a routine maintenance item that is frequently disregarded. As a general rule, the operators need to frequently oil the pins and bushings. The operator’s manual will help in locating each grease area and advising on the recommended quantity and quality of grease. But let’s say many operators utilize a single machine. In such situation, it’s a great idea to mark any less-than-obvious grease locations, like the turntable bearing, with orange marking paint to act as a reminder to all users.
Both under- and over-greasing can be dangerous. Usually, one to three oil injections are enough to finish the job. Any more and it becomes an expensive waste that also endangers the environment and makes a huge mess.
- A propel drive gearbox is a type of gearbox that enables forward motion.
One of the crucial parts of a machine’s functioning is the propel drive gearbox, although operators often neglect to maintain it. Operators and service personnel are seldom aware of the fill and drain plugs since the gearboxes are typically covered in mud and are difficult to find. Conversely, depending on the manufacturer, gearboxes need their oil changed every 1,000 hours or so. Although compact, gearboxes nonetheless cost a lot to make since they share the same internal parts with their bigger counterparts, although on a smaller scale. However, they typically hold 1/2 to 1 quart of oil and can be rapidly changed in most situations, making it a small investment that pays off over time.
- Changing the hydraulic oil.
Because hydraulic oil degrades, loses its viscosity, and loses its capacity to keep pollutants trapped in suspension—a process that helps protect all moving parts in the system—hydraulic oil may be deceptive. Additionally, hydraulic systems are constructed by engineers to specific tolerances, and the majority of hydraulic issues are caused by faulty or tainted hydraulic oil.
Hydraulic oil is essential because it absorbs moisture from the system and prevents it from getting to the hydraulic component. In a hydraulic system that is sealed and continually topped up with oil, rust might be problematic. Make the error of presuming that hydraulic oil is friendly just because it looks to be. When hydraulic oil becomes foggy, it is past the point when it has to be replaced. Additionally, the oil no longer effectively preserves the hydraulic system’s component parts. Although each device is unique, the majority of equipment manufacturers advise replacing hydraulic oil every 2,000 to 4,000 hours. Your operator’s manual will include an exact service plan and the amount of oil needed.
- Organize everything.
It takes a lot of effort and time to keep track of service records and bills for oil, filters, and repairs. When determining the equipment’s service life in the future, it may nonetheless be useful knowledge. Every piece of equipment eventually reaches the end of its useful life. Consequently, maintaining accurate records will provide you with a benchmark against which to measure the machine’s performance. Additionally, you have the option of switching to a different brand or buying another item from the same manufacturer.
If a problem develops, having proper service records is also helpful when negotiating with your dealer. The manufacturer and your dealer will see from your accurate records that you appreciate your equipment and are properly maintaining it. This is crucial when dealing with warranty claims. Whether you have a fleet of mini-excavators or simply one machine, this idea is crucial.
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