Monthly Archives: April 2017

Kubota track loader moving earth on a field
Kubota track loader moving earth on a field

A track loader is one of the most useful and versatile tools for construction projects, with increased capacity compared to skid steer loaders and improved capability over soft terrain. However, they require special care to prevent downtime and ensure reliable service.

Like practically any modern motorised equipment, if you want it to perform optimally at all times, you need to maintain your track loader properly. A well-maintained machine will save you thousands in repairs and replacements. Here is a short guide with hints and tips on keeping your track loader in top shape.

Undercarriage

The undercarriage should be cleaned on a regular basis, ideally daily. When you’re working in an environment full of abrasive materials like clay and gravel, the undercarriage should be cleaned several times a day. Abrasive materials can damage key components of the undercarriage.

Tracks

You should check and adjust your track tension on a regular basis. If the track is too tight, the undercarriage will wear prematurely. If it’s too loose, you’ll get a ratcheting effect where the track drive lugs will jump over the sprocket rollers, also resulting in premature wear of the undercarriage.

Don’t allow the sidewall of the tracks to rub against hard surfaces while in operation. This also leads to premature wear and can result in track failure. Fluids like oil and grease should be removed from the tracks immediately, as they’re bad for the rubber.

Idlers and rollers, while sealed and lubricated permanently, will eventually wear out. These, along with sprockets and tracks should be checked regularly and replaced when they show signs of excessive wear. To get the best quality service for the lowest price, any repairs and replacements should be conducted at an accredited centre.

Chassis

Track loaders are uniquely qualified to operate in harsh soil conditions, so it’s important to check the chassis to ensure all covers, doors, belly pans and shields are in good condition and securely fastened. The chassis should be kept clear of debris and cleaned every day in most cases. Cleaning the chassis prevents catastrophic failures due to the accumulation of foreign materials or overheating from plugged radiators.

Track Motors and Final Drives

Regularly check the oil on the planetary side of the final drive. Check the oil levels in your final drive or track motor every 100 hours of operation, changing the oil out at least once a year. Drain water and sediment from the fuel tank and filter every 50 hours.

You should also check the case drain filter every 500 hours and replace it when you install a rebuilt or new drive. If the case drain filter gets clogged, it causes an extreme build-up of pressure in the final drive, resulting in expensive damage.

Other General Maintenance

In addition to the above, here are some other general maintenance tips. You should always check with your equipment manual above anything and follow their recommended schedule. Alternatively, you can contact an expert with your brand of equipment.

At the start of every day:

  • Check the engine oil and hydraulic fluid levels
  • Make sure the cooling system has enough coolant and the radiator is clean
  • Check hydraulic hoses and lines for damage or leaks
  • Check for any loose nuts and bolts in the undercarriage.
  • Check the battery, cables, connections and electrolyte level

Maintenance can be time-consuming but it is worth it to keep your track loader running smoothly and to prevent unnecessary downtime and repair costs.

Talk to Allclass Constructions

If you need construction machinery in Brisbane, get in touch with the team at Allclass Construction Equipment. We are a 5-star service centre for Kubota machines and we offer a range of high quality new and used construction machinery.

For new or used construction equipment, call us on 1300 255 252 or contact us online.

Yellow bull dozer driving down quarry road
Yellow bull dozer driving down quarry road

Construction projects require the use of complex and heavy machinery on a daily basis. Each project needs specific tools and equipment, many of which are bought or hired out from a construction supplier. Some procurement officers and engineers fail to select the appropriate machinery for the job, causing delays, creating an unsafe environment and adding unnecessary costs.

Sourcing your construction equipment from a reputable, reliable and knowledgeable supplier will help you avoid mishaps in your project. Here are some factors to consider when you’re looking for a construction equipment supplier.

Equipment Is Tested and Well-Maintained

A good construction equipment supplier will ensure any used machinery is in optimal condition and ready for safe use. They will also advise you about what machinery or equipment attachments are most suited to a project or conditions.

This is crucial when it comes to projects involving excavation and digging, where excavators must be well-maintained to safely transport debris. Quality suppliers will place importance on maintaining their machinery with genuine parts and have their equipment repaired by accredited centres.

Equipment Brand and Age

A reputable supplier will generally supply machinery and equipment from well-known brands like Kubota. Another point to consider is whether they are using new, up-to-date equipment, with a fresh inventory every four to eight years. Replacing machinery at the appropriate time helps prevent costly on-site breakdowns.

Whether a supplier is updating their inventory can be determined by the brand they use. Authorised dealers tend to get the latest machinery and technologies as they enter the market. Authorised dealers also attend product seminars and build specialist knowledge about a particular brand and their equipment.

Good Service

A good construction supplier should offer quality service, being able to deliver equipment in a timely, efficient manner to prevent on-site delays. They should make assurances that if any equipment breaks down on site, it can be promptly resolved.

Good service means your supplier is knowledgeable, responsive and supportive. They should be able to talk you through the needs of your project, give you advice on what kind of equipment you need and run you through all the necessary safety and prestart checklists.

Knowledge and Experience

Knowledge and experience are crucial in a supplier but this is something that can be overlooked at times. It can be easy to assume that stocking and selling equipment doesn’t require a vast amount of knowledge, but it’s necessary when you’re providing advice and properly maintaining, diagnosing and repairing equipment.

The longer they’ve been in the industry the better. They should also aim to continuously build upon their knowledge by attending product training seminars. Highly trained and experienced technicians mean your project will have strong after-sales support and reduced downtime.

Allclass Construction Suppliers in Brisbane

With more than 100 years of combined experience, Allclass Construction Equipment is the ideal supplier for construction projects in the Brisbane area. We’re authorised Kubota dealers and are rated as a 5-star service centre for this brand. Our sales advisors are driven by offering high-quality service and value.

For new or used construction equipment, call us on 1300 255 252 or contact us online.