Introduction

Watching heavy equipment working on the field feels good. However, when unexpected repair work appears it creates a misfortune situation on the field. It usually happens in construction work. Operating a machine is only sometimes favorable but managing it is another burdensome thing. Managing the machinery can sometimes feel like playing a beat-a-mole. It needs as much attention as one expects the best results from it.

Spending the minimum cost on maintaining a compact track loader is important and advantageous for the project. It seems like an effortless task but it’s not. Maintaining the machine is a pretty arduous task that requires persistence, knowledge and hard work. 

Today’s tech-savvy machines are handy on the job site. That is why it is essential to understand the critical aspects of the machines and their technical procedures as well. Subsequently, all these practices maximize the lifespan of the machine and save a lot on repair and further expenses.

Operators must prioritize compact track loader (CTL) maintenance and remember these essential tips to cut down the costs.

Create a maintenance checklist

If you have a hectic schedule of work, and often forget to check on your machine, then creating a checklist is ideal for you. You have to start with a thorough checklist. This helps you to create a timeline of the machines and their components. It is best practice to understand the requirements of the machines and remind you what has to be done.  

Your checklist must include the timeline of engine oil, hydraulic fluid, air cleaner, and track condition. Before beginning the construction work operator should also check the fuel tank and other necessary parts of the machine. Weekly items include checking fuel lines, clamp bands and track tension.

It’s also important to keep the loader clean, especially the tracks. Internal components may early wear down if rough material gets into them, particularly if it comes in between the roller and the track. 

CTL maintenance costs

You can play smartly and reduce the cost of maintenance of a compact track loader by benefiting from the offer of a manufacturing company. Most of the equipment developers might not know that manufacturers offer options that make it more convenient for fleet managers to maintain equipment. 

It’s not only convenient but also fits in your limited budget for maintenance and makes a value agreement with the relevant company. Most of the equipment production companies offer prepaid credit if they do not have repair parts available at that time.  Deere also recently released its Deere Protect parts & fluids plan that supports the company’s Deere Protect service plan.

These kinds of offers are best for the maintenance plan. Also, an opportunity to avail the better services from the equipment companies. They provide service kits, correct parts and manage the whole maintenance process of the machine. Nonetheless, with rental and loader for sale the companies provide beneficial offers. 

Check tracks for uneven wear

If some parts get worn more on those tracks, the productivity of the whole machine will be impacted. Operators should seek to find and join any tears, cuts and punctures – in addition to leakage in the travel motors, hoses or rollers. 

The high-flow hydraulic systems are used in some machines and are at least as liable to suffer from malfunction as the standard Compact Track Loader. But, they like to operate high flow hydraulic attachments which in turn makes the hydraulic temp rise and also reduces the oil durability notes. 

To prevent such mistakes, cleaning the belly pan, or replacing the bad filters instead of simply cleaning them should be done often, by operators or mechanics. Using the compressed air to blow the filters out will interfere with their function and lead to dirt ingestion causing severe damage to the engine.

Framework and undercarriage maintenance 

Undercarriage maintenance accounts for an important part of the CTL's ownership and operating costs.

Multiple components with motion that operate together and stroke against one another in an undercarriage provide the potential for wear and friction. Operators need to look for any indicators of recent wear or damage on the track and undercarriage structure.

You want to clear the tracks and remove as much material as you can both before and after the procedure. In colder climates where materials may freeze overnight, this is of particular importance.

Conclusion 

By applying various useful practices you can minimize the maintenance cost of the track loader. Following the checklist is the most important part and keeping an eye on the machine. Before making it to the construction ground checking the components is very essential part, which includes the oil level, fluid system and undercarriage pattern. 

To further decrease maintenance expenses, you can take advantage of the offers provided by the equipment manufacturers. This is the best solution so far for the CTLs and even provides hassle-free services.