Keep the Undercarriage Clean
If you allow the tracks to build up with dirt, mud, and other debris it will lead to premature wear on the components. Debris on the undercarriage can also make the machine feel less powerful and can also increase fuel usage. At the beginning or end of each day operators should spend some time cleaning the undercarriage – shovels and pressure washes can be used to assist with the cleaning.
Track adjustment
Incorrect track tension may lead to increased track wear, so it is important that you keep your tracks to the correct adjustment at all times. Refer to your Komatsu dozer or excavator Operation & Maintenance Manual for details of the correct adjustment and how to achieve this.
The correct shoe width
Choose the proper shoe width by considering the weight of the machine and application. For instance, narrower excavator shoes are better suited for
hard soil and rocky conditions because they have better soil penetration and grip. Wide excavator shoes typically work well in
soft underfoot conditions because they have more flotation with lower ground pressure.
Best practices for dozer or excavator operators
Reduce speeds – As machines accelerate, they wear the bushings, sprockets and pins.
Minimize reversing – The tracks on your machine are designed to operate with less wear when travelling forward compared to reverse travel, so you should only reverse when required.
Make wider turns – Sharp turns or pivoting the machine can lead to accelerated wear and increase the potential for de-tracking.
Minimize time on slopes – Operation time on sloped ground conditions, which increases wear on rollers, idlers and guide lugs.
Avoid obstructions – as well as uneven ground.
