Maintaining an excavator properly while it is on site is crucial for ensuring optimum performance and safety. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the importance of regular maintenance, the frequency of service, daily and general maintenance tasks, lubrication intervals and the role of the plant hire company. To help you further, we have created TWO FREE CHECKLISTS of items to monitor, safety checks to perform and actions to take daily, weekly and monthly.
The importance of regular maintenance
Excavators are powerful machines designed to handle tough jobs, but they are not invincible. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent common issues that can arise from everyday use. Here are some common problems that can occur if maintenance is neglected:
- Hydraulic failures – the hydraulic system is the heart of an excavator. Without regular checks, hoses can crack, seals can leak, and components can fail, leading to costly repairs and downtime.
- Engine problems – an engine that isn’t regularly serviced can suffer from reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, and eventual failure.
- Track and undercarriage wear – tracks and undercarriages are subject to significant wear and tear. Without regular inspections and maintenance, you may experience premature wear, leading to expensive replacements.
- Electrical issues – electrical systems can suffer from corroded connections, faulty sensors and battery failures if not regularly checked.
- Safety hazards – regular maintenance ensures that safety features such as lights, alarms and emergency shut-offs are working correctly, preventing accidents on site.
How often should an excavator be serviced?
The frequency of excavator maintenance depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations, the working conditions, and the usage intensity. Generally, most excavators should undergo a thorough service every 250 hours of operation or every 12 months, whichever milestone is met first. However, it’s essential to check the specific guidelines for your model and adapt based on the environmental conditions of your work site.
Daily maintenance checks should also be carried out before use in order to detect potential issues early on and before they cause a breakdown and costly repair work, not to mention safety hazards.
What does the general maintenance of an excavator include?
Daily Checks: Keeping your excavator in top shape
Performing daily checks on your excavator is a simple yet highly effective way to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here’s a detailed look at what you should be doing every day:
- Visual inspection – start with a thorough walk-around of the machine. Look for any signs of damage, wear or leaks. Pay special attention to the undercarriage, hydraulic lines and cylinders. Check the condition of the bucket and teeth for any signs of excessive wear or damage.
- Fluid levels – check all critical fluid levels, including hydraulic fluid, engine oil, coolant and fuel. Maintaining proper fluid levels is crucial for the smooth operation of your excavator. Low fluid levels can cause overheating, reduce efficiency and lead to significant damage.
- Hydraulic system – inspect the hydraulic system for leaks or damaged hoses. Ensure that all connections are secure. Leaks can lead to loss of hydraulic pressure, reducing the machine’s performance and potentially causing damage to hydraulic components.
- Engine and battery – open the engine compartment and inspect for any signs of leaks or loose connections. Check the condition of the belts and hoses. Ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion. A well-maintained engine ensures efficient performance and reduces the risk of breakdowns.
- Air filters – check the air filters to ensure they are clean and free of debris. Clogged air filters can reduce engine performance and increase fuel consumption. Replace or clean the filters as needed.
- Tracks and undercarriage – examine the tracks for proper tension and any signs of wear or damage. Ensure the undercarriage components, such as rollers and idlers, are in good condition. Properly maintained tracks and undercarriage components are essential for stable and efficient operation.
- Operational checks – once the visual and fluid checks are complete, start the excavator and perform a series of operational checks. Listen for any unusual noises, check the responsiveness of the controls, and ensure all safety features, such as lights, alarms and emergency shut-offs, are functioning correctly.
General excavator maintenance: ensuring longevity
Excavator maintenance should also include periodic thorough checks to ensure its optimal performance, longevity, and safety on site. Here’s a more detailed look at the essential aspects of general maintenance:
Cleaning
- Radiator and cooling fins – these parts are critical for preventing the engine from overheating. Regularly remove any debris that may block airflow, as this can lead to a reduction in cooling efficiency.
- Engine compartment – keep the engine compartment clean to prevent dust and debris from entering sensitive areas. Use compressed air or a soft brush to clean off loose particles.
- Hydraulic cylinders and hoses – inspect and clean hydraulic cylinders and hoses to prevent the build-up of grime that could cause leaks or hinder the machine’s hydraulic performance.
Filter replacement
- Air filters – renew air filters as specified in the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Clogged filters can reduce engine efficiency and increase fuel consumption. In dusty environments, more frequent checks and cleaning may be necessary.
- Fuel filters – ensure that fuel filters are replaced regularly to prevent contaminants from clogging the fuel system, which can affect engine performance and reliability.
- Hydraulic filters – replace hydraulic filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Clean filters regularly to maintain optimal hydraulic performance and prevent premature wear of hydraulic components.
Track and undercarriage
- Track tension – check and adjust the track tension to ensure proper contact with the drive sprockets and prevent excessive wear or track slippage. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct tension settings.
- Rollers and idlers – inspect the rollers and idlers for signs of wear or damage. Worn components can lead to uneven track wear and affect machine stability. Replace any damaged parts promptly to avoid further issues.
- Track pads – examine track pads for excessive wear or damage. Worn pads can affect traction and stability, so replace them as needed to maintain safe and effective operation.
Lubrication
- Pivot points – lubricate all critical pivot points, including the boom, arm, bucket and swing bearings. Regular lubrication helps reduce friction and wear and tear, ensuring smooth movement and operation.
- Grease points – check and grease all designated grease points according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This helps maintain the performance of joints and linkages and prevents rust and corrosion.
- Lubricant quality – use the correct type of lubricant as specified by the manufacturer. Using the wrong lubricant can lead to increased wear and potential damage to components.
Component Inspections
- Electrical systems – check the wiring, connectors and battery terminals for signs of wear, corrosion or loose connections. Ensure that all electrical systems, including lights and alarms, are functioning correctly.
- Hydraulic components – inspect hydraulic hoses, fittings and cylinders for leaks, cracks or signs of wear. Address any issues immediately to prevent hydraulic failures.
- Structural integrity – examine the overall structural integrity of the excavator, including the chassis and boom. Look for any signs of cracks or damage that could affect the machine’s stability and performance.
At which intervals should your excavator be lubricated?
Lubrication is a vital part of excavator maintenance. It helps reduce friction between moving parts and prevents wear and tear. We’ve outlined this general guideline for lubrication intervals to assist you in maintaining your excavator:
- Daily – lubricate all major pivot points, including the boom, arm, bucket and swing bearing.
- Weekly – check and lubricate track rollers, idlers and sprockets.
- Monthly – inspect and lubricate the swing circle (i.e. the area that the excavator’s upper structure covers as it rotates), and other less frequently used joints.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific lubrication points and intervals for your particular model.
The role of the plant hire company
If you’re hiring an excavator, you might wonder if it’s the plant hire company’s responsibility to maintain the machine. Typically, plant hire companies are responsible for providing well-maintained equipment. However, the day-to-day maintenance while the machine is on site, such as daily checks, cleaning and lubrication, is the hirer’s responsibility. Ensure you understand the terms of your hire agreement and clarify maintenance responsibilities with the plant hire company.
Regular excavator maintenance is key
Performing regular maintenance checks is crucial for achieving optimal performance from an excavator. It not only enhances the efficiency and reliability of the machine but also ensures the safety of the operator, other site workers and the general public. By following a consistent maintenance schedule, performing regular inspections, and adhering to manufacturer guidelines, you can extend the life of your excavator, reduce downtime, and keep your project running smoothly. Remember, preventive maintenance is always more cost-effective than dealing with unexpected breakdowns. Stay proactive, and your excavator will serve you well for years to come.
Rabbit & Dowling Plant Hire is an established and expert supplier of plant hire for commercial and domestic building projects throughout Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire.
To find out more about Rabbit & Dowling Plant Hire’s plant hire services contact our expert and friendly team on 01903 851957 or info@rabbitanddowling.co.uk.
Rabbit & Dowling Plant Hire is part of The Rabbit Group of companies, which includes Rabbit Demolition, Rabbit Skip Hire and Rabbit Toilet Hire.
