How to prepare a mini excavator for the winter?

Winter season just around the corner. And we, as every year, remind you to service your machine! ;)

Many owners/operators of mini excavators forget about machine service during the winter. In 99% of cases, smaller mini excavator machines are not as necessary for operation as in the summer. It’s because they are not strong enough to overcome the frozen ground. That is why we should remember that winter is the only period when we can make the necessary repairs. And of course mini excavator service without much rush.

After “transferring” machines from construction sites to the company’s base, you should slowly start thinking about making the next season even better. Your machines should be non-stop at the construction site. For this to be done, an appropriate review should be performed.

How to make a mini excavator service properly?

Secondly, check the technical condition of all cylinders, especially those directly responsible for the arm’s work. Being at the mini excavator arm remember to clear slack in the place where the bucket connects with the quick coupler and the excavator arm.

The next important element is the review of the driving gear/hydromotor/final drive of the mini digger. It should be thoroughly checked for leaks. It is best to take it to a professional service dealing with the repair of final drives. Specialists will assess the state of gear wear and regenerate seals. This will minimize the risk of gear failure during operation in the summer season. Remember that in the case of a malfunctioning cylinder, there is the possibility of transporting the machine. It can even going down the construction site. In the case of a gearbox malfunction, the machine is grounded. Checking the condition of the final drive, you should also look at the condition of the track drive wheels.  And you should determine whether they require replacement.

Another important factor is checking the condition of our swing motor. To assess this, it is necessary to check whether at different moments of engine warm-up (cold, warm, hot) the cabin under the influence of the joystick makes the same movements. If not – this is the first sign of impending trouble with the rotation engine.

Conclusions

By making these few checks and invest a small amount you will minimize the probability of failure during the season. All of us know how much loss comes from each day of machine downtime, indeed – from every hour!