Top Methods to Maintain Excavator Undercarriage

The undercarriage of an excavator requires routine maintenance. The smooth operation of the track depends on a well-functioning undercarriage. You could end up losing time and money repairing or replacing your excavator if you don't follow the recommended steps. 

Did you know that excavators require regular inspections? Visit us at one of our Bobcat PNW locations to learn more about excavators and ways to maintain them. All of our locations in Washington offer great deals on equipment, and we proudly serve Auburn and Kent. 

Keep Everything Clean

The first rule of excavator maintenance is to keep it clean after every job. The tracks and undercarriage collect dirt, debris, and mud in just a day. Unless you remove the built-up material, it can cause damage to the machine. 

Avoiding premature wear is as simple as taking a pressure washer to the undercarriage. Larger pieces of debris might need a shovel to dislodge.

Regular Inspections

If you want an excavator to keep operating smoothly, regular inspections constitute the most basic maintenance. A proper inspection means looking for uneven wear, damaged parts, and missing parts. Something out of place should alert you to a deeper issue.

During an inspection, you should look at all the major parts, from the drive and track to the rock guards and main idlers/rollers. Oil leaks from the rollers, idlers, and drives indicate a problem with a seal that might end in a costly repair if left alone. 

Minimize Wear

Follow a few tips, and you will prevent wear on the track and undercarriage of your excavator. You can avoid completing more complicated maintenance if you operate your equipment according to the manual. Correct operation includes making wider turns and spending less time on slopes. Sharp turns and moving up or down hills cause more wear on the tracks.

Spending less time on rough and abrasive materials, such as concrete, will also limit wear. Machines with tracks, like an excavator, are not meant for prolonged use on that type of ground. 

Use Proper Methods for Soft Conditions

You cannot always avoid working in soft and muddy conditions. There are ways to prevent wear and tear. Take note of these tips so that you can spend less time on costly maintenance and repairs. 

First, keep the tracks slightly looser. If you loosen them too much, there will not be enough tension, and they could de-track. Second, rubber tracks are a good choice for frequent work on concrete, grass, and asphalt. 

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