Heavy machinery has evolved over the past decade. Enhanced capabilities and systems have shortened the time spent on clearing, loading, and trenching on the job site. Diligence in following the maintenance schedule and the right procedure for excavator rental are the best ways crawler excavator operators and owners are able to protect their equipment and keep them working at the optimum level.
Heavy equipment, including crawler excavators, comes with moving components that have to be maintained for maximum performance. However, regular inspection and maintenance of the undercarriage can be costly and can shorten the lifespan of the track. Fortunately, the following tips will prolong the lifespan of your crawler excavator and make its performance better than before.
Regular Cleaning
Of course, an operator of an excavator has to take time at the end of the day to clean it and remove any dirt or debris that might have built up. Pressure washers and shovels are superb at cleaning the undercarriage. Inadequate cleaning of an excavator will accelerate the wearing out of moving parts, especially during colder days.
Routine Inspection
It might be critical to inspect the crawler excavator to spot any uneven or excessive wear and notice any missing or damaged component. Frequent inspections are necessary for a machine that works under challenging conditions or harsh applications. Walk around the crawler excavator and check for any element that looks out of place. The presence of oil leaks could be a sign of a failed seal and could lead to failure in the track drive motors, idlers, and rollers.
Digging Procedures
One way to minimise track degradation and excessive wear is to adhere to the underlying operating procedures. The undercarriage consists of expensive components that make up a large portion of the cost of repair or replacement. Following the right steps can help extend the life of the track and reduce the overall ownership cost.
Best Practices
Certain tasks can cause more wear on undercarriages and excavator tracks than other applications. As such, it is essential for equipment operators to adhere to the recommended operating procedures for their machines to operate at optimum levels. Some practices that can help minimise undercarriage and track wear is to make a full turn. Pivoting a crawler excavator or making sharp turns can increase de-tracking potential and lead to accelerated wear. You might also need to maintain proper track tension to reduce track wear, especially when an operator is working on muddy conditions.
Operators are encouraged to follow the manufacturer’s guide to maintain the structure of their equipment and secure its mounting hardware. It is also crucial to keep other safety items, such as seat belts, in good condition. All lighting should be visible and operational, and safety decals should be legible and intact.
Your crawler excavator is probably one of the most valuable assets. With proper maintenance and increased versatility, a rental excavator can last longer and generate more revenue than before. Commitment to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule can also add life to an excavator.
