Today, every construction site employs excavators to help make the work faster and more efficient, especially where digging up huge parts of the ground is required. Excavators are also widely used in other fields like farms, mines, and factories. However, just like any other man-made tool, they are prone to damage if not handled carefully.
One of the most important parts of an excavator is the tracks. These are the parts that make the machine move smoothly over any kind of surface. If the tracks are damaged, the machine can halt its operations. So in this article, you will learn common mistakes that can damage your tracks and how to avoid them.
Common mistakes for excavator tracks and how to avoid them
– Not checking track tension regularly
One of the biggest mistakes is not adjusting the track tension. If the tracks are too tight, they wear out faster. If they are too loose, they can come off while working. So it is important to check the tension often and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to adjust your tracks’ tension. Always adjust when the machine is on level ground and clean.
– Driving over sharp objects
Rocks, scrap metal, and other sharp objects can quickly damage rubber tracks. Avoid driving over debris or broken ground when possible. If the site has a lot of such sharp materials, then you should try to clear a path or simply use other alternatives, like the steel tracks instead of rubber.
– Making sharp turns all the time
Turning too sharply may put stress on the tracks. Over time, this leads to cracks or uneven wear that may make your tracks come off. Try to make wide turns and drive slowly when turning to avoid this problem.
– Working on slopes incorrectly
Operating on steep slopes without proper control can eventually damage the tracks. Hence, always work slowly and carefully on slopes. Additionally, you should avoid driving sideways across a hill unless necessary.
– Skipping daily cleaning
Mud, rocks, and dirt can get stuck between the tracks. If this buildup stays there for too long, it results in wear and tear. So, after each day of work, take time to clean out the tracks using a pressure washer.
– Not using the right track type for the job
Using rubber tracks on very rocky areas can wear them out quickly. Thus, always match the track type of the job site. To be on the safe side, have both the rubber and steel excavator tracks on your site to ensure you get maximum benefits from each.
– Overloading the excavator
Pushing the machine to lift more than it can handle puts pressure on the tracks. This can cause them to stretch and wear out faster. Thus, always stick to the machine’s load capacity.
– Forgetting to store the excavator properly
Leaving the machine out in the sun or rain for long periods without cover can damage the tracks. For instance, sunlight can dry out rubber tracks and cause cracks. You should always store the machine in a sheltered area when not in use.
Conclusion
Excavator tracks are strong, but they still need proper care. By avoiding common mistakes like poor cleaning, wrong track tension, and sharp turns, you can keep your tracks in great shape. This helps your machine work better and reduces repair costs. Taking care of the tracks means taking care of the whole machine. In case they need replacement, there are many affordable excavator track options.