Keeping Your Excavator In Good Shape
Modern machinery and heavy equipment have made construction projects infinitely easier and more efficient, and none more so than the excavator. Whether you’re digging trenches, filling holes, or just moving debris and dirt, an excavator can be exactly the tool you need. But no matter how powerful and durable they are, you still need to take care of them. All that heavy lifting takes its toll, affecting the machine’s safety, power, efficiency, and overall performance.
Not to worry! Bobcat of New Hampshire is here to help. We’ve put together some basic tips on keeping your excavator in working condition, saving you time and money. If you end up wanting to know more, or you’re just looking for a new excavator, stop by our locations in Chichester and Hudson, New Hampshire! Our friendly and experienced staff are ready and waiting to get you what you need at the prices you want.
Owner’s Manual
Like most heavy equipment and modern vehicles, your excavator likely came with an owner’s manual that includes basic maintenance tips. This can include a schedule for changing oil, coolant, filters, gearbox oil, and more. Your owner’s manual will provide key insights on your specific product, what it needs from you, and when. Our general tips work for most machines, but your manual works for yours. Follow its recommendations to avoid costly repairs or even total machine failure.
If you can’t find your owner’s manual or never received one, you can find one online from the manufacturer’s website. Download or print a new one to make sure you’re fully-equipped!
Visual Inspection
Before starting work or any maintenance on your excavator, take a moment to look it over. Look for any obvious problems, like loose bolts, damage on the undercarriage, debris underneath the machine, rust spots, fuel or oil leaks, etc. Make sure tracks have the proper tension, or that tires have the correct air pressure.
Also make sure to inspect the propel gearbox and make sure it’s in good condition. Gearbox oil should be changed at approximately 1,000-hour intervals, though your owner’s manual may have a more specific number.
Swing Gear
Your swing gear and bearing should both have the proper lubrication needed for smooth functioning. Inspect the swing gear to ensure there’s enough grease present and that water hasn’t leaked into the compartment.
Clean Machine
Your excavator doesn’t work in pristine conditions. It’s going to get mud, dirt, debris, sand, and more caught in the undercarriage and across its surface. Use a shovel to remove large chunks of buildup, or a pressure washer for more precise cleaning, to clear off your undercarriage and tracks. Re-inspect your excavator closely after every ride to make sure you haven’t picked up any major dirt.
Fluids And Filters
Your excavator relies on numerous fluids and filters to make sure it operates properly. If you don’t keep up with these, your machine might overheat and the engine can be seriously damaged. Lubrication is also vital to prevent strain and damage. Ideally, try to replace fluids after 250 operating hours. Oil is the most important of these and you shouldn’t wait any longer to replace it. After around 500 hours, it’s time to replace your hydraulic fluid filter.
Your radiator fluid will need more regular maintenance. Check it daily and top it off as often as is necessary. There may be some gradual fluid loss, but if your coolant is lower every day it may indicate a leak or other serious problem. If you suspect that’s the case, check it regularly during your work day to try and find the issue. If you can’t find it, or you find it and can’t handle it yourself, bring it in for maintenance immediately.
At Bobcat of New Hampshire, our service department is top-notch and ready to get your machines back to work. We also have a wide selection of excavators on sale, and the expertise to help you pick the right one. We proudly serve the people of Manchester and Nashua, New Hampshire—let us serve you today!