Updated: March 10th, 2009 02:48 PM GMT-05:00
Make Time for Wheel Loader Maintenance
Construction Equipment - Wheel Loader Maintenance
When approaching a pile, adjust your approach based on the type of material to be moved to minimize the impact on the machine.
Check tires regularly for proper air pressure. Low pressure can affect operating stability and cause increased torque on components.
Check the operator's manual to determine the appropriate service intervals for filters and fluids. Adhering to these intervals will keep the loader more productive and increase component longevity.
By Kim Berndtson
Evans adds, "If one tire's inflation pressure is considerably lower than another, your bucket or ground-engaging tool won't be level. Plus, with a low tire on one side, you have more torque and friction on that side, which is hard on the mechanical components of the machine, such as axles and brakes."
Overall, taking care of your wheel loader will add life to the machine, and value when it comes time to trade it in or sell it. "I can't stress enough the importance of following a routine PM schedule. Don't deviate from it," says Evans. "And if you have a record of maintenance performed, it can add 15% to 20% to the value of the machine at trade-in."
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