Loading, stockpiling, aggregate handling: You count on your wheel loaders to take on all kinds of tasks on the job site. What’s the best way to maximize their performance and productivity? First, match the bucket to the material you’re moving. Then, get your operators on board with these eight tips. They won’t just help you boost production — they can also minimize fuel consumption and component wear.
1. Position the truck at a 45-degree angle to the face.
That’s the best possible position of material, truck and loader to ensure minimum loader movement. The result? Faster cycle times and lower fuel consumption.
2. Take a straight-on (square) approach to the material.
This tactic allows both sides of the bucket to hit the face at the same time for a full bucketload. It also minimizes side forces on the loader, reducing wear and tear over the long term.
3. Approach the face in first gear at a steady speed.
This low-gear, high-torque method provides optimized machine power for the best material penetration.
4. Minimize bucket contact with the ground.
Don’t let the cutting edge touch the ground more than 6-16 inches (15-40 centimeters) before the face of the material. That helps reduce bucket wear and material contamination. It can also lower fuel consumption by eliminating unnecessary friction between the bucket and the ground.
5. Keep the cutting edge parallel to the ground.
Then raise it just a little before curling the bucket. That’s the best way to get a full bucketload. This technique also prevents unwanted bucket-material contact, which prolongs bucket life and saves fuel due to less friction.
6. Don’t spin the tires.
Wheel-spinning wears out one of your loader’s most expensive components — tires. It also burns fuel for no reason. Approach the face in first gear to help prevent spinning.
7. Avoid chasing the load.
Rather than chasing the load up the face, use this technique instead: 1) Penetrate. 2) Lift. 3) Curl. It’s the most fuel-efficient maneuver.
8. Keep the floor clean.
A clean floor improves speed and momentum when approaching the pile. It also reduces material spillage when reversing with a full bucket. To keep the floor clean, avoid tire spinning and losing material with brutal maneuvers.
For more production-boosting, cost-saving tips — covering everything from tires to technology — check out this wheel loader selection guide.
