If excavator tracks are too loose, they can slip and reduce efficiency. If they're too tight, they wear out faster and cause damage to components. This guide will walk you through the steps of adjusting the track tension on your excavator, including when to do it, what tools you need, and how to achieve the perfect tension. Regular adjustments can extend the life of your tracks and improve overall performance on the job site.
(Reading Time: 5-8 Minutes)
Why Adjusting Excavator Tracks is Important?
Proper track tension is crucial for several reasons:
- Prevents Slippage: Loose tracks can slip off the rollers, especially on uneven terrain or during turns. This can halt operations and lead to costly downtime.
- Reduces Wear and Tear: Over-tightened tracks cause excessive strain on the sprockets, idlers, and rollers, wearing them out more quickly. Adjusting them properly reduces unnecessary wear.
- Improves Efficiency and Safety: Well-maintained tracks ensure smoother operation, reduce the risk of accidents, and enhance overall machine performance.
When to Adjust Excavator Tracks?
There isn't a fixed schedule for adjusting mini excavator tracks; it largely depends on the type of terrain and frequency of use. However, as a rule of thumb:
- Check the track tension before starting a new project, especially if it involves different terrain.
- Adjust the tracks whenever you notice slippage or difficulty in maneuvering.
- Inspect the tracks at least once a month for wear and tension.
Tools Needed for Track Adjustment
To adjust the track tension, you'll need the following tools:
- 10mm wrench
- 16mm wrench
- 32mm wrench
AHM mini excavator typically comes with the tool box.
We know dealing with text can be a hassle, so we’ve got a video made by one of our YouTuber partners for you. Check out the video below—it’s one of the ways to adjust the tracks on compact equipment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Excavator Tracks
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you adjust the tracks on your excavator:
Step 1: Position the Excavator
First, park the micro excavator on flat, level ground. Raise the dozer blade to its highest position. Ensure that the boom and arm are perpendicular to the tracks, then lower the boom so that the tracks lift off the ground by about 10 centimeters (4 inches). This position allows for easier access to the track components.
Step 2: Remove the Track Tension Cover Plate
Locate the track tension adjustment cover plate. Using a wrench, remove the bolts securing the cover plate. This cover protects the tensioning mechanism, so removing it gives you access to the adjustment components.
Step 3: Adjust the Track Tension
With the cover removed, you'll see a tension adjustment rod with a locknut. Follow these steps to adjust the tension:
- Loosen the Locknut: Using a wrench, loosen the locknut to allow adjustment of the tension rod.
- Tighten or Loosen the Track: To tighten the track, use a wrench to turn the adjustment rod clockwise. This will push the idler forward, tightening the track. To loosen the track, turn the rod counterclockwise.
The correct tension is achieved when you can press down on the middle of the track and it sags between 1-3 centimeters (about 0.4-1.2 inches).
Step 4: Secure the Adjustment
Once you have the correct tension, use the wrench to tighten the locknut to secure the adjustment rod in place. Make sure everything is tight to prevent the track from loosening during operation.
Step 5: Reinstall the Cover Plate
After adjusting the track tension, replace the cover plate using the wrench. Ensure it is securely fastened to protect the tensioning mechanism from dirt, debris, and moisture.
Conclusion
Regular checks and adjustments, especially before starting a new job or after working on challenging terrain, can prevent issues that lead to downtime and costly repairs. With just a few tools and a bit of time, you can keep your micro excavator running smoothly and efficiently, maximizing your productivity and the life of your machine. Remember, at AHM, we offer high-quality mini excavators and top-notch us-based customer support for all your equipment needs.
