Crucial Steps for the Upkeep of Your Track Loader
Earthmoving equipment, irrespective of the primary function, is expensive. So whether you have bought this heavy construction equipment for personal use or your new business, it is mandatory to know how best to take care of your earthmoving machinery. An oversight some owners make is assuming that maintenance entails getting a technician whenever a problem crops up. The reality is that proper upkeep consists of paying specific attention to each type of equipment that you own, which means there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the maintenance of your earthmoving equipment. This article focuses on the crucial steps you should take for the upkeep of your track loader.
Clean the track loader's undercarriage
Track loaders are one of the most preferred earthmoving equipment since they can be employed on both smooth and rough terrain. Nevertheless, just because your track loader is designed for heavy use does not mean it will never be prone to downtime. One critical maintenance measure that should be carried out each time the track loader is employed is the cleaning of its undercarriage. Consistent exposure to abrasive materials, such as gravel and boulder, can be lodged on the undercarriage and cause damage to its parts if not removed.
Investigate and adjust the tracks' tension
Whenever you use your track loader, there is always the chance that the tension of the tracks will change. If this tension is too tight, it exposes the undercarriage to premature damage. Conversely, if the tension is excessively loose, the track loader's drive lug will encroach onto the sprocket rollers, leading to wear. When adjusting the track's tension, ensure that the sidewalls are not rubbing on any surfaces, as this will cause friction and damage the tracks. Lastly, also ensure that if any fluids have made their way to the tracks, such as grease or oil, it is imperative to clean them off immediately, as they can cause the rubber to degrade.
Inspect the chassis regularly
While track loaders are one of the types of heavy construction equipment that are uniquely designed to function on harsh terrains, they need their chassis to stay intact to stay operational. When inspecting the chassis, ensure that all components such as shields, covers, belly pans and doors are fastened securely. Additionally, if you notice any signs of damage to these parts, it is judicious to have them repaired or replaced immediately. Lastly, cleaning the chassis every time the track loader is used is imperative, since the accumulation of foreign debris inside the chassis will cause catastrophic failure.