Excavator Undercarriage Maintenance
Staying on top of excavator maintenance is the best way to ensure your equipment runs smoothly. Fortunately for you, we’ve created the following guide with tips for maintaining your excavator’s undercarriage. Keep reading to learn some valuable information, and reach out to Burrows Tractor with any questions. We are located in Washington and Oregon, so give us a call today!
1. Use Proper Track Tension
An important part of proactive excavator maintenance is using the right track tension. You’ll find this information in your model’s owner’s manual. If it’s too loose, it can lead to increased wear and tear on the bushings and sprockets. On the other hand, if it’s too tight, it can result in increased stress to the undercarriage and waste horsepower and fuel too.
Before checking the track tension, let the excavator run for about 30 minutes so it can acclimate to working conditions. You should aim to check the tension every 10 to 15 hours of use. You may also want to adjust the track tension to better suit the work site’s terrain. For example, you’ll want looser tracks when working in soft, muddy conditions and tighter tracks for firm, tough ground.
2. Use the Right Shoe Width
Another important part of excavator undercarriage maintenance is using the correct shoe width. If it’s too narrow, the machine can sink into the ground which will result in more debris getting stuck in the undercarriage. If it’s too wide, the shoes will experience more wear and tear.
When working on hard, rocky terrain, use narrower shoes to provide enhanced soil penetration and grip. When working on soft, loose terrain, use wider shoes to provide increased flotation. Try to have the narrowest shoe weight that still gives you the function and level of flotation needed.
3. Keep the Undercarriage Clean
Keeping your excavator’s undercarriage clean will help you maintain your machine. Keep in mind that built up debris can lead to problems like:
- Increased wear on various parts.
- Adding extra weight to the undercarriage which decreases fuel economy.
- Making it more difficult to see various components when doing an inspection.
Use a shovel or pressure washer to clean out the undercarriage at the end of each workday!
4. Regularly Inspect the Excavator
One last tip for maintaining your excavator is to regularly inspect it. You should inspect it after every 1,000 to 2,000 hours of use. During the inspection, check for uneven wear and tear, missing or damaged parts, and more. Pay attention to the track, rollers, idlers, and drives too.
We hope these maintenance tips help you keep your excavator and its undercarriage in good working order! If you have any questions or you want to check out some equipment for sale, contact Burrows Tractor today. We have locations in Washington and Oregon. Our team can’t wait to help you find the machines that make your work easier and faster too!