Periodic inspection of construction equipment: how to properly maintain your equipment?
Regular maintenance and daily inspection of construction equipment can significantly extend the life of the equipment and help prevent breakdowns. In addition to major inspections performed every 500, 1000 or 2000 hours of operation, there are also minor inspections after 10, 50 or 250 hours of operation. Here is what a technical inspection can be based on operating hours:
10 working hours
- The brake fluid level is checked (in case of large leaks, the cause must be investigated).
- The belt tension is checked.
- A test of the hand and main brakes is performed.
- Lubrication points are provided throughout the machine.
- Excess water is removed from the fuel separator (especially important in winter).
- The reversing signal is being checked.
50 working hours
- The condition of the cabin and engine filters is checked (replaced if necessary).
- Drain water from the fuel tank (especially important in winter).
- Check the handbrake pads (replace if worn).
250 working hours
- For older or heavily used models, engine oil and filters are changed.
- The coolant level is checked (topped up if necessary).
- The telescopic boom guides and supports are checked.
- Checking the oil level in the axles and rear drive systems.
500 working hours
- Engine oil and filters are changed.
- The transmission filter is being replaced.
- Hydraulic filters are replaced.
- Fuel filters are replaced.
- Air filters (engine and cabin) are replaced.
- Driveshafts and universal joints are lubricated.
1000 working hours
- Engine, transmission, axles, final drives and swing drive oil are changed (for excavators only).
- The transmission oil filter is checked.
- All filters are replaced (hydraulic, fuel, oil, ventilation).
2000 working hours
- All oils are changed (engine, transmission, axles, hydraulics, gearboxes, rotary drives).
- All filters are replaced according to model requirements.
- The engine valves are adjusted and the cover gasket is replaced.
- The thermostat is being checked.
3000 working hours
- 1000 hours of maintenance work is being carried out.
- The coolant is being replaced.
What is needed for a technical inspection?
Regular maintenance requires the right tools: wrench sets, filter wrenches, and other tools depending on the machine model and brand.
Regularity is a guarantee of longevity
The manufacturer's specified oil and filter change intervals help maintain the reliability of the engine, transmission, and hydraulic system. Skipping inspections can cause the oil to lose its properties and become contaminated, which can lead to serious failures in the hydraulics and other systems.
When performing a technical inspection, it is important to follow safety measures: do not use damaged or unsuitable tools, and use special safety locks to prevent unexpected lowering of machine parts.
