An excavator is an expensive construction machine that needs to be maintained regularly so its performance can be optimised. It’s important that when you find a high quality excavator for sale you know how to take care of it to retain its value.

Excavator maintenance is a regular responsibility because you want to extend the life of your machine. It’s also to ensure the safety of the construction crew. If you’d like to know how to properly uphold your excavator, read through these 10 tips carefully.

1. Maintain Engine and Hydraulic Oil Levels

The oil in an excavator works similar to the oil in a motor vehicle. It’s used to lubricate internal components and to eliminate contaminants from entering the engine. Inspect oil levels for the engine and hydraulic system regularly to avoid system failures.

2. Use Compatible Oil Brands for your Excavator

Cheaper oil brands can cause various problems in construction machinery. It’s advised that you never compromise on quality when it comes to oils. Even if they’re in a higher price range always opts for the best oil brands for your excavator.

There are myriads of oils that are formulated to prevent oxidation, capture dirt and dust from entering components & to prevent internal wear. If you use the incorrect type of oil in your excavator machine it won’t protect the internal mechanisms and it will lead to system failures.

When you’re working in the construction industry, you can’t afford to let this happen. Check your excavator manual because it will state which oils are needed for your excavator to operate effectively.

If you’re ever unsure about the various oil compounds and viscosity your machine requires always refer to the manual to guide you in purchasing the correct lubricants.

3. Water and Fuel Checks

There are daily inspections you must conduct on your excavator. Daily checks include water and fuel inspections. This is because most modern excavators have a fuel filter and water separator. The system ensures that clean fuel is being provided to the engine by removing water and contaminants from the liquid before it reaches the engine.

You’ll have to drain the system regularly and check if the filter is dirty often to avoid engine contamination.

4. Regularly Examine Cooling Components

Make sure your heat exchanges are clean at all times. Your heat shields and radiator should be monitored & ensure it’s in the correct position inside your excavator.

It should be noted if your excavator is leaking oil or coolant it can cause a build-up of dirt which will decrease the flow of air and reduce heat exchange. When you’re changing coolant inside the excavator adhere to the requirements inside the user manual. This will prevent engine overheating.

5. Examine the Excavator Attachments

If you’re using the excavator for heavy-duty construction on a daily basis then you should check all attachments daily. The bucket that scoops up dirt should be inspected for cracks. The bucket shouldn’t be loose on the arm of the excavator.

6. Oil the Pivots

Pivots, busting, dipper, pins and other moving components should be well lubricated to prevent corrosion & freezing in colder climates. If you don’t lubricate the moving mechanisms on your excavator they can lock, making it difficult for the machine to move properly when picking up materials.

A high-quality lubricant prevents all the moving components from wear which will extend the life expectancy of your excavator. However, it’s also important to know when to replace pivots. If there’s rust or any type of wear it’s best to replace the mechanisms.

7. Test the Tension

An excavator track is what makes the machine move over terrain. The track tension must be inspected frequently because if it’s too tight it can wear out the mechanisms. If the track is loose it slows down the excavator and the turning device can fall off the machine.

The correct track tension must be maintained at all times to increase the longevity of the machine and to optimise its performance.

8. Always Inspect your Excavator for Leaks

Sometimes older excavators can leak oils, coolant and fuel. Monitor the levels of all liquids used to operate the machine and take necessary action to repair any damage you find.

9. Gearbox Maintenance

Used excavators typically come with pristine internal parts. However, if you use the excavator on a daily basis for heavy-duty construction the gearbox is sure to wear out fast. Replace your gearbox oil regularly to avoid premature wear.

10. Excavator Clean-up

Since your excavator is exposed to the elements, dust and debris they can get extremely dirty. After every use, you should wash the outside of the machine and deep clean the upholstery inside the cabin at least once a week.

Final Thoughts

So now that you know exactly how to take excellent care of an excavator, when will you be purchasing your machine? An excavator is what you need if you want to complete construction projects fast so make sure you have one in your building machine collection.