5 Practical Tips to Maintain the Undercarriage of Your Excavator

If you own or operate an excavator, you're well aware of the crucial role it plays in construction and earthmoving projects. The excavator's undercarriage is the foundation that supports its entire structure. 

Thus, you need to pay special attention to keeping it in excellent condition, especially the rubber tracks. Your excavator's undercarriage is most exposed to the terrains you operate on! 

Neglecting the undercarriage of your excavator, such as a CAT rubber track excavator, can lead to expensive repairs, downtime, and decreased productivity. 

In this write-up, we've articulated some expert tips that will help you maintain your excavator's undercarriage like a pro! With any more delays, let's get started.

How to maintain the undercarriage of a rubber track excavator?

1. Regular inspection is your first line of defense

As mentioned previously, your excavator's undercarriage is exposed to harsh terrains and takes maximum wear during operation. Regular inspections help you identify potential issues before they turn into costly problems. Here's what you can do:

• Create a routine inspection checklist and diligently stick to it. 

• Look out for signs of wear, loose or damaged components, leaks, and excessive dirt or debris buildup. 

• Minor issues can be managed with DIY techniques. For example, replacing Bobcat skid steer tracks. However, if you feel there's some serious issue, connect with a professional and get your undercarriage inspected. 

2. Clean your excavator's undercarriage diligently

It's no secret that construction sites can get messy. The excavator's undercarriage houses the rubber tracks and gives motion to your excavator. 

This continuous movement can lead to mud, rocks, and dirt accumulating on your excavator's undercarriage. Trapped dirt, dust, and debris can further accelerate wear and corrosion. 

• Incorporate the habit of cleaning the undercarriage thoroughly after each application. 

• Use high-pressure water, a scraper, or a brush to remove all the grime and debris. 

A clean undercarriage of a CAT rubber track excavator ensures smooth operation and extends the lifespan of your excavator.

3. Select the right rubber track for your excavator and project

Earthmoving machinery continues to evolve, advance and upgrade. When you plan to get replacement tracks, you'll find an excellent selection of track options. Engineers design variable rubber tracks to displace weight effectively. 

To ensure your undercarriage functions perfectly, it is important to select the right ones for your unique needs.

• First, determine- What type of terrain you'll be working on? Will it be soft mud or sandy terrain? 

• Next, see if your excavator is compatible with the track you're selecting. 

• Lastly, ensure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines while installing tracks on your rubber track excavator. 

4. Monitor track tension regularly

So, now that you're done with the basic maintenance and care, let's move on to the advanced maintenance tips. And the first thing you need to consider is track tension. 

Accurate track tension is essential for optimal performance and longevity of your excavator's undercarriage. 

Keeping your tracks too loose or too tight can cause uneven wear and damage. 

• Invest in a reliable tension gauge and check the track tension as part of your routine inspections.

• Read the excavator manufacturer's instructions and adjust the tension as needed to ensure it meets the required specifications.

5. Follow excavator operation best practices

Rash or unmindful driving can severely damage your excavator's undercarriage along with skid steer tracks. 

• Train your operators to be mindful of their movements. These include avoiding sudden or sharp turns and reducing unnecessary track spinning or abrupt stops. All these factors can stress the undercarriage.   

• Encourage your operators to report any unusual noises, vibrations, or handling issues. This'll allow you to address potential problems promptly and prevent costly mishaps.

Wrapping Up

You might find maintaining the undercarriage of your excavator an overwhelming task, and you tend to postpone it. However, with these expert tips, you'll be well-equipped to take care of your heavy machinery like a pro.

A well-maintained undercarriage of your Bobcat skid steer tracks translates to increased productivity, reduced downtime, and substantial cost savings in the long run.