Expert Excavator Care: Minimize Wear, Maximize Uptime

Any small problem can eventually turn into a big one. Simple preventive steps and quick examinations can go a long way toward extending your excavator’s lifespan and ensuring more uptime.

Here are some quick tips to help you keep your excavators in peak condition.

EXCAVATOR INSPECTION: START OF THE DAY

• Do a walkaround of the machine to check fluids and filters. When started, Volvo excavators display a daily maintenance checklist with five items: engine oil level, coolant level, hydraulic oil level, water separator and air cleaner.
• Look for damage and leaks and address any issues before getting to work.
• Clear debris, especially from the undercarriage. This is especially important if the weather is below freezing and ice or frozen mud is stuck in the tracks.

THINGS TO KEEP AN EYE ON DURING EXCAVATOR OPERATION

• Minimize long-distance tracking. Even for the best excavators, avoiding unnecessary stress and wear on the machine can go a long way toward preventing downtime.
• Ensure you’re using the proper track tension. Loose tension can lead to excessive bushing and sprocket wear, and overly tight tension can cause stress on the undercarriage and waste horsepower.
• Don’t abuse your excavator. While excavators can do a lot of jobs, they’re not hockey sticks. Avoid side loads and slamming the cylinders at the end of stroke, as this causes undue stress on the machine.

EXCAVATOR INSPECTION: END OF THE DAY

• Check your rollers to make sure they’re free of debris and can turn easily.
• Fuel up at the end of each day to avoid condensation inside the tank.
• Don’t skimp on the grease. It’s an easy, cost-effective preventive maintenance that keeps your machine operating smoothly.

Volvo excavators are designed to withstand rugged terrain and unforgiving conditions, but the way you operate the machine can play a huge role in extending machine lifespan, too.