This week’s blog post is focusing on tracked excavators, and how the undercarriage should be maintained. When regular maintenance is carried out, it could actually increase the life expectancy of the machine, and allow it to run more efficiently.
Would you know how to maintain the undercarriage of a digger, and what you should be looking out for?
WHERE CAN THE UNDERCARRIAGE BE FOUND ON TRACKED EXCAVATORS?
As the name suggests, the undercarriage relates to the underneath of the machine. Whether it’s a car, tractor or even trailer, the undercarriage always refers to the supporting framework underneath the vehicle.
When it comes to tracked excavators, the undercarriage not only refers to the framework of the machine. It also includes numerous moving components that work together to power the digger.
The undercarriage is made up of:
- Links
- Pins
- Bushings
- Sprockets
- Rollers
- Idlers
- Shoes
- Frames
If the tracked excavators on your fleet have not been checked recently, then we strongly advise carrying this out as soon as possible. Leaving any issues until it’s too late can be very costly, not to mention the time it takes to repair the undercarriage and any parts. So how can you maintain the undercarriage?
HOW SHOULD THE UNDERCARRIAGE BE MAINTAINED?
Check the track tension
Did you know that an incorrect or poor track tension will cause more wear and tear for your machine? If the working area conditions vary, it will also take longer for the machine to accustom. It is highly recommended that the machine is left running for at least half hour before the pre-op checks are completed, and the track tension is set.
Tight tension will put additional stress and pressure on the undercarriage. Tension that is too loose can lead to sprocket wear and damage.
Follow basic operating rules
Operators can become too complacent when it comes to their tracked excavators and other plant. We would highly recommend harsh terrains if possible. Asphalt, concrete and other rough materials could damage the tracks overtime, often leading to downtime of the machine.
By minimising high operating speeds, this could also reduce wear and tear on your undercarriage components. Slow and steady wins the race in this situation!
Daily Inspections
Before any construction equipment is used, the operator should be completing a walk around. An operator should look out for the most obvious signs of damage which would normally include leaky seals, dry joints, loose components, and wear to parts. Checking the undercarriage and connected components, as listed above should also be checked for any damage or wear.
Clean, clean, clean!
We all know that a construction site isn’t the cleanest of workplaces, however operators need to get into the habit of cleaning down machines after a day’s work. Dirt and debris is very well known for building up in the undercarriage, causing further issues down the line.
It is vital that debris is cleaned out during wet conditions, or situations where the temperatures drop and it could become compact and freeze. This will not only make it increasingly difficult to remove from the undercarriage, it could lead to worn components being missed when inspected.
If the undercarriage and components are not maintained regularly, it could lead to downtime of the machine, additional costs to get the machine up and running again, as well as decrease the life expectancy of the machine. No operator would ever want to run into any of these issues!
TRACKED EXCAVATORS FOR SALE AT IPS
We understand that one size doesn’t fit all, and depending on the type of project a smaller or larger tracked excavator could be required. Here at International Plant Sales we have a variety of second hand diggers for sale including:
- Mini and Midi diggers – Komatsu PC14, PC26, PC55, PC80
- Tracked excavators – Komatsu PC138, PC210, PC360, PC490
- Wheeled excavators – Komatsu PW160
If you’re looking to buy a Komatsu in particular, then you’re definitely in luck! We do try to list all of our diggers for sale on the website, however if you require a specific machine then get in contact with us and we can try and accommodate your needs.
CONTACT THE TEAM TODAY
International Plant Sales formed in 2014 has sold over 10,000 pieces of construction equipment to the UK and international market. All of the tracked excavators for sale, as well as other plant equipment comes from H. E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd or Diggerland UK Adventure Theme Park. Meaning they are in excellent condition, and have been well looked after. The machines sold at International Plant Sales come with a manufacturer’s service history, have had a full bodywork check and will have received a full body work respray.
If you choose to buy any of our tracked excavators for sale, they will also come with a warranty, and incredibly low hours.
Should you wish to schedule an appointment to inspect the machine or simply get a quote, get in touch today.
Contact us via email or call us on: (+44) 1634 779123.
Information correct as of 17/09/21
