Mini Excavator Daily Checks

Purchasing a mini excavator is an investment that can propel your business forward. However, like any machine, it requires proper care to ensure longevity and optimal performance. To get the highest return on your investment, follow these daily maintenance requirements and upkeep tips for your mini excavator:

Regularly checking fluids is a simple yet crucial task that can prevent significant damage, downtime, and costly repairs. The main fluids to check are:

• Engine Oil Level
• Hydraulic Fluid Level
• Coolant Level
• Fuel Level: It is recommended to keep the fuel tank full and fill it up after each use to prevent air from entering the fuel system. If air has entered the fuel system, it should be purged according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Additionally, ensure the "air breather" on the tank cap is clean of debris and mud to prevent under-pressurization.
• Water and Fuel Separator Check: Some excavators have a fuel/water separator with a red ring in a clear container that floats in the water. Once the red ring reaches the mark, the water should be drained, and the separator cleaned. Water in your fuel can significantly reduce engine life.

To avoid premature wear, ensure that all lubrication points are properly lubricated. Key lubrication points include:

• Boom bottom linkage
• Arm bottom linkage
• Boom cylinder boss
• Arm cylinder boss
• Bucket cylinder boss
• Bucket link pin
• Arm cylinder pin
• Boom swing fulcrum
• Swing cylinder boss
• Dozer cylinder boss
• Dozer linkage boss

Special attention should be given to lubrication when operating the mini excavator in wet conditions.

Track tension should be checked daily if the excavator is frequently in heavy use. Too loose a track can result in poor maneuvering and de-tracking, while too tight a track can cause premature wear and breakage. Both scenarios lead to downtime and costly repairs.

While checking track tightness, also examine the undercarriage for damage and dirt buildup. Regularly cleaning the undercarriage helps prevent premature wear.

Inspect the Excavator Engine Compartment

Look for leaks and signs of damage in:

• Hydraulic Tank, Hoses, and Plugs: Check for tightness in hose clamps.
• Radiator and Oil Cooler: Check for leaks and clogs in radiator fins and ribs. Use compressed air to remove any blockages.
• Electrical Circuit: Look for disconnections, shorts, or loose terminals.
• Belts: Inspect for signs of wear or rubbing marks.

Before using any excavator attachments, ensure they are in good working condition. Make sure attachments are greased (if applicable) and check for leaks in hydraulic attachments.

To increase the likelihood of these checks being conducted and to ensure your mini excavator lasts longer, choose an excavator with easy access to the engine compartment and grease points on one side of the boom.

Maintaining your mini excavator is straightforward but requires attention and focus. Proper care will ensure your mini excavator performs well for a long time.

If you are looking to buy a high-quality mini excavator, wheel loader, skid steer, or other heavy equipment in Canada or the United States, contact your nearest JoyT5 dealer by visiting our Contact Us page. JoyT5 offers competitive prices and ships heavy equipment throughout Canada and the United States.

Click here to visit our Home Page