8 Tips to Get Better Performance & More Life Out of Your ...

Unexpected machine downtime translates into lost time and expenses that can disrupt your schedule. For those managing construction equipment, maintaining optimal performance is essential, particularly with dozers that handle grueling tasks. To minimize operational risks, follow these simple maintenance tips, ensuring your machine runs efficiently.

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Dozers are engineered for robustness to tackle challenging earthmoving jobs, but they consist of crucial components, such as the undercarriage, which require regular upkeep. Notably, the undercarriage can represent up to half of your dozer’s repair expenses, making it necessary to adhere to maintenance routines to enhance its performance.

Here are eight effective strategies to boost performance and prolong the lifespan of your dozer in demanding construction scenarios.

1. Follow Pre-Maintenance Steps Outlined in the Owner's Manual

Before diving into maintenance tasks, park your dozer according to the owner's manual. Key pre-maintenance procedures include:

• Park on a flat surface and lower the blade to the ground.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Let the engine idle at a low speed to cool down.
• Turn off the engine.
• Attach a 'do not operate’ tag before starting maintenance.

Ensure you're equipped with suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, goggles, vests, gloves, and steel-toed boots. Request maintenance training from your local equipment dealer if needed, and familiarize yourself with key maintenance decals on the machine.

2. Clean It Up

Eliminate debris like mud and dirt from the undercarriage for better visibility when inspecting it. If your work involves materials that harden, like clay, clean the undercarriage daily to prevent premature wear and damage. This is crucial in cold climates where mud can freeze and cause further complications.

To facilitate cleanout, many manufacturers offer dozers with undercarriages designed to let debris fall away easily. Shovels and pressure washers are also effective tools for cleaning.

3. Complete a Machine Walk-Around

Conduct a walk-around inspection at the start of each shift and before maintenance sessions. This simple step is instrumental in spotting potential issues that could lead to breakdowns. Here are areas to check:

• Undercarriage: Look for signs of uneven wear or damaged components.
• Rollers, idlers, and drives: Ensure there are no oil leaks that could result in serious damage.
• Track pads: Examine for worn edges and remove any rocks lodged underneath.

4. Check Track Tension

Incorrect track tension is a common cause of undercarriage downtime. Both loose and overly tight tracks can lead to costly wear and misalignment of moving parts. Thus, regularly inspecting track tension is key. The owner’s manual will specify the recommended tension range and measurement technique. Adjust tension as conditions change, paying attention to the specific environmental challenges your machine faces.

5. Inspect Fluid Levels & Filters

Proper lubrication and cooling are critical for your dozer's various components. Key fluids to monitor include:

• Engine oil
• Hydraulic fluid
• Grease
• Coolant
• Drive motor lubricants

Some models provide convenient inspection points at ground level, making it easier to check and add fluids as needed. Correct lubrication scheduling can significantly extend component lifespan and combat wear. Additionally, filters serve to block contaminants in vital systems, so maintaining them is equally important.

6. Check the Dozer Blade's Cutting Edge

A worn cutting edge on the dozer’s blade can force the machine to exert more effort, decreasing efficiency. Regularly inspect the cutting edge and stay aware of how the material being moved may contribute to its wear.

7. Inspect the Electrical System & Battery

Electrical components, including wiring and batteries, are critical to operational success. Promptly replacing damaged batteries or wiring can prevent complications and downtime.

8. Practice Good Operating Habits

The way you operate your dozer significantly impacts maintenance frequency and costs. To minimize track wear, employ these best practices:

• Execute wider turns.
• Approach inclines with caution.
• Avoid excessive spinning.

Choose How to Operate Dozer for expert guidelines on usage.

Regular preventive maintenance is key to keeping your dozer performing at its best. Applying these tips will help control ownership costs while extending the life of your equipment.