Excavators are among the most versatile and hardworking machines on any construction site. At the heart of their mobility and stability lies the excavator track group—a component that bears the brunt of rough terrains, heavy loads, and relentless working hours. However, once the job is complete, many operators make the mistake of overlooking one crucial task: post-job cleaning and maintenance.
Proper maintenance of the excavator track group not only prolongs its life but also ensures the machine performs at its best in every subsequent job. In this blog, we’ll explore why post-job care is essential, what steps should be included, and how you can maintain your track group to get the best ROI on your equipment.
After each job, your excavator’s track group accumulates dirt, debris, moisture, and stress. Leaving these unaddressed can lead to:
Premature wear and tear
Corrosion and rusting
Reduced efficiency and performance
Higher maintenance costs in the long term
A clean and well-maintained excavator track group is more reliable, safer, and economical to operate. It also reduces the chances of downtime during your next job.
Begin by parking the excavator on a flat surface and turning off the engine. Allow it to cool down if recently used. Then, conduct a visual inspection of the track group to check for:
Loose or missing bolts
Visible cracks
Bent or worn-out track shoes
Uneven track tension
Catching these issues early can prevent major breakdowns.
The next step is thorough cleaning. Over time, mud, clay, gravel, and plant matter accumulate around the undercarriage and can harden if not removed.
Use a pressure washer to clean the track links, rollers, idlers, and sprockets.
Avoid directing high-pressure water at seals or bearings to prevent damage.
For stubborn debris, you may need a pry bar or manual scraper.
Regular cleaning removes corrosive elements and allows you to inspect parts more effectively.
Track tension directly affects the wear rate of your excavator track group. Too tight, and it puts extra stress on components. Too loose, and it can derail the tracks.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for correct sag measurements.
Adjust the tension using the grease cylinder mechanism if needed.
Regular adjustments based on job site conditions (muddy, rocky, sandy) can enhance the longevity of the track system.
After cleaning and drying the track group, apply grease to the necessary fittings and pivot points. This protects metal surfaces from corrosion and ensures smooth operation.
Pay special attention to track pins, bushings, and idler bearings.
Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract more dust and debris.
Each part of the excavator track group plays a vital role in performance. Inspect the following:
Track Chains: Look for stretch or elongation.
Rollers and Idlers: Check for smooth rotation, wear on the surface, or leakage.
Sprockets: Look for worn teeth, which can cause slippage or noise.
Replace components that show signs of severe wear. Delaying such replacements may result in damage to adjacent parts.
If the machine will be idle for a while, consider proper storage procedures:
Keep the tracks slightly elevated off the ground to reduce pressure on rollers.
Store in a dry, covered area to minimize exposure to moisture.
Occasionally rotate the tracks to prevent flat spots.
Train operators on correct driving habits (e.g., avoiding high-speed turns).
Avoid unnecessary pivoting in place, which accelerates wear.
Rotate sides regularly to even out the wear pattern.
Keep job sites as clean as possible, especially in muddy conditions.
Investing time in post-job cleaning and maintenance of your excavator track group pays off in the long run. Not only does it reduce unexpected repairs and downtime, but it also ensures that your equipment operates safely and efficiently on every site. Whether you own one machine or manage a fleet, making track group maintenance a standard operating procedure can protect your bottom line.
Remember, your excavator’s performance depends on what’s beneath it—take care of your track group, and it will take care of your productivity.
TEAM Excavator & Dozer Parts is one of the largest manufacturers of heavy construction, mining and earth moving equipment parts, such as Excavators & Bulldozers, in Southern India.