Bulldozers are important earthmoving machines. They can be used to clear land for road construction or to prepare mining sites for digging and excavation. As powerful as these machines are, they still need to be well-maintained.
Each bulldozer consists of sensitive moving parts that may become damaged after periods of heavy use. To prevent unexpected breakdowns, you should remain on top of your bulldozer's maintenance schedule.
Here are some essential tips to help you get started:
1. Consult the owner's manual
Your maintenance schedule should be based on the owner's manual. The manual will provide information regarding regular servicing needs, parts to pay attention to and troubleshooting common problems.
If hiring a bulldozer, the hiring company may also give you pointers on which parts you should closely keep an eye on.
2. Check the oil on a daily basis
Many people don't realise how important their bulldozer oil is. Oil and grease essentially reduce the friction between moving parts and prevent rust from accumulating. Therefore, you need clean oil that's free from debris and contamination. By checking the oil daily, you'll be able to identify if it needs to be flushed and replaced.
3. Keep the chains from rusting
The bolts and chains of your bulldozer are another important part of the machine. These components facilitate the smooth and efficient movement of your wheels when moving earth or clearing bushes. Therefore, preventing rust will be an important step to take.
Make sure the bolts and chains are checked on a biweekly or monthly basis. If extensive damage were to occur, it would take lots of time and resources to replace these components.
4. Service the engine regularly
As with any other type of machine, pay close attention to engine performance. Make sure all fluids are regularly changed, and inspect the electrical components that link to your main engine source. If you notice the machine getting stuck or having trouble starting, have the engine checked as soon as possible.
5. Inspect the undercarriage
One of the defining components of any bulldozer is the undercarriage. This is the bottom part of the machine that hauls away earth and other types of loads on the work site. Make sure the undercarriage is regularly cleaned, especially after carrying out heavy work. Without timely cleaning, debris can accumulate and interfere with the smooth movement of internal components. You should also regularly replace the nuts and bolts that hold your undercarriage in place.
For more information or help with your bulldozer, reach out to earthmoving contractors near you.
