Construction work will carry on throughout the winter. You are responsible for any damage caused by the cold to any heavy equipment that you own or rent, regardless of whether the damage was caused by the equipment itself or the weather.

Due to this fact, numerous construction companies and workers are aware of the significance of winter equipment maintenance in terms of reducing overall maintenance costs. By adhering to these seven preventative maintenance strategies, you and your machine operators will be able to safeguard your construction equipment, reduce the number of expensive heavy equipment repairs, and save money.

Maintain a regular check on the level of the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).

Even though telematics are becoming more and more of a standard feature on more and more machines, you should still keep an eye on the level of DEF in your vehicle, particularly when the temperature is below freezing. The reason for this is that starting DEF has a chance of causing the computer to become unresponsive. If the temperature is below freezing, it is recommended that you use a block heater to pre-heat the engine as well as the oils before beginning to operate the machine.

It is important to keep DEF in a warm location throughout the winter months. Because diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) can either lose or gain its purity depending on the temperature and humidity of its environment, it is essential to know how to properly store it.

You should always make sure that your apparatus is clean.

The majority of the money that is spent on maintaining a piece of construction equipment goes toward repairing and replacing its undercarriage. This is due to the fact that it sustains the greatest amount of damage on a daily basis. This is especially true during the winter months, which highlights the significance of performing routine maintenance checks. When night falls, the temperature drops, and the mud that has accumulated on the undercarriage during the day will freeze and stick to the vehicle. In the event that something goes wrong, it will be difficult to move around the workplace and access essential components of the machine.

Frozen mud and ice can speed up the wear and tear on machines, which can result in damage to the tracks. If you want to reduce the likelihood of damage and save money on insurance, you should make it a habit to clean them up every night.

Make Sure to Make Use of the Right Fluids, Gases, and Oils.

Oil requirements can vary widely from machine to machine. In addition to that, the amount of fluid that is necessary can change significantly depending on the season. It is essential to consult the owner’s manual or the guidelines provided by the manufacturer when determining which oils, gases, and fluids to use and when to use them. Because of this, continuous monitoring of the fluid conditions is required. Some things to keep an eye out for are the following: braking fluid In temperatures below zero, brake fluid can freeze, making it impossible to stop the vehicle in time in the event of an emergency.

Every evening, check to see that the appropriate amounts of fluids are present, and that the gas tank is at its maximum capacity. Eliminating condensation is a top priority because it is the primary factor that contributes to liquid tanks freezing over. Heavy equipment needs to have its fluids topped off or drained every night as part of its preventative maintenance routine.

Obtain the appropriate coolant. It is essential to keep in mind that not all coolants are able to perform their functions at the same temperature. It is especially important to make sure that you have the right one if you will be working in temperatures below zero. Maintaining a full level will help prevent condensation from forming.

There needs to be a change made to the hydraulic fluid. Always make sure to replace the hydraulic fluid in the equipment before storing it or turning the power back on.

Ensure that all electronic devices are turned off.

It is highly recommended that you keep your machines operating even in areas where the temperature can drop to as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit (or -40 degrees Celsius). Because of the extreme cold, it might take all day for the machines to get to operating temperature. If you continue to operate in this manner, you will never accomplish anything.

On a parking lot that is covered in snow, there is a yellow excavator with a bucket attachment. The tracks of the machine are covered in snow.

On the other hand, you are unable to maintain a normal engine revving while the vehicle is idling. It is recommended by technicians that the speed of the machine be maintained at 1100–1200 RPM at all times. This is due to the fact that maintaining the engine within its typical rpm range of 700 to 800 will not be sufficient to keep it warm.

Always make sure the engines in your vehicle are kept at a temperature that is comfortable.

The engines found in heavy machinery operate most efficiently in warm environments. On the other hand, during the winter months, the engine might not get hot enough to perform adequately on a job that isn’t very demanding. Therefore, it’s possible that you’ll need engine block heaters when the weather gets colder. They can be of assistance in maintaining an optimal operating temperature for your engine, which will help you avoid the potential damage that can be caused by making frequent cold starts while working.

Make sure your batteries are always fully charged before using them.

When the temperature drops, it increases the risk that the batteries in a diesel engine or an electric machine that hasn’t been properly maintained will discharge, which can be hazardous. This is true even if the machines have been properly maintained. In the event that you won’t be using the apparatus during the winter, be sure to disconnect the battery and store it in a warm location. They will have gained additional preparation time by the time the subsequent construction cycle begins in the spring.

You should consider purchasing a new battery, however, if you are certain that the device will be utilised continuously throughout the winter season. A battery that performs adequately during the summer will give you fits when the temperature drops below freezing.

Protect the machinery from adverse weather conditions.

There may be challenges involved for certain construction sites in winterizing their equipment. They need to be kept in a place that is secure, completely enclosed, and has a lot of heat. Having said that, a significant number of contractors won’t be in this position. If this is the case, you will need to take every safety measure possible to ensure that the equipment will remain intact throughout the harsh winters in the north. Depending on the severity of the weather, this may necessitate transporting the equipment to and from the location each day, parking it next to a fence, covering it with a tarp, or constructing a temporary shelter for it. Alternatively, it may require that a temporary shelter be constructed.

The icy temperatures of winter can be hard on not only our bodies but also our gadgets and other electronic devices. During the winter months, you should take precautions to avoid expensive breakdowns of your heavy machinery. This is true whether you own or lease the equipment. Because of this, it is essential to devise a schedule for yearly maintenance and stick to it religiously. This will, in addition to reducing costs, lead to an increase in efficiency.

Every compact track has a rubber track, which is included for a particular use. You can only get the best out of this track if you choose the proper tread. Depending on the type of job, you may need minimal ground disturbance or simple traction. So, how do you know when to choose either?

We have put this detailed track selection guide to make the right choice always.

Why is maintenance important?

There are different angles to equipment maintenance. In the case of compact track loaders, maintenance includes keeping your tracks in excellent condition. The individual components of your machines are likely to last longer if you ensure adequate overall care. Running your equipment efficiently, ensuring it is clean, and sticking to the guidelines in the Operations and Maintenance Manual (OMM) can help you get more years out of your tracks. Most manufacturers include the OMM in the pouch behind the machine’s seat, where you find important details on servicing and maintaining your equipment.

Experts recommend starting your workday with machine walk-arounds. Most compact track loaders usually have a unique service chart that guides your scheduled service intervals and maintenance points. Cleaning and greasing the undercarriage of your compact track loader are essential aspects of maintenance. Doing it daily helps to maximise component life. You should also inspect the machine for any damage or wear and tear. The track extension is another part to pay attention to—your OMM will provide specific instructions on how to proceed.

How frequent should maintenance be?

As mentioned earlier, proper maintenance will help you get the longest possible lifespan out of your compact track loader or steer loader. The maintenance steps differ across manufacturers, and sticking to these steps is vital to keep your machine performing optimally. In most cases, the frequency of maintenance depends on a few factors, including the operator, form of application, soil conditions, condition of the undercarriage parts, and climate. That is why we recommend paying close attention to the track tension—it is key to maximising the lifespan of the track’s undercarriage components.

Assess the track tension while the machine is on a levelled surface and supported such that the whole track is just two inches above the surface. If the tracks are too tight, it can lead to premature failure of the tracks, loss of power, and bearing failures. Similarly, too loose tracks put the machine at risk of derailing and damage from drive lugs misfeeding on the drive sprocket.

Remember that your OMM is your most reliable source of guidance on track adjustment and maintenance. It contains information specific to your machine model instead of generic instructions you find online.

How do you know when the tracks are due for replacement?

On average, a set of well-maintained rubber tracks are expected to deliver between 1,200 and 1,500 hours of use. However, the exact number may vary due to a few factors. Experts have classified the impacts on track life into four groups: application, operating techniques, underfoot conditions, and maintenance practices.
The track life of any compact track loader depends on the application because various job sites require different performance levels from the components.

Therefore, the extent of wear and tear differs with the type of materials.

Another determining factor is how the operators handle the machine. Moving constantly at high speed will most likely wear the machine faster. Quick turns and counter-rotations also cause more wear than simple and gentle turns. The wear rate is higher when spinning tracks, for instance, when pushing into a pile.
Regarding the underfoot conditions, the wear rate differs across the surface types the tracker is working on. For example, snow, rock, dirt, and grass all task the tracker differently. This is another reason maintenance is essential. Regular inspection and cleaning of your undercarriage and ensuring proper track tension will extend the lifespan of your rubber tracks.

Now to answer the question of when a replacement is due, the best time to replace your tracks is when the tread is no longer delivering at the level you expect. A drop in performance is an indication that you need new tracks. This may manifest in different ways, including poor traction, the inability of the track to hold tension, and more.

What are the available track options?

Are you shopping for new tracks for your machine? One advantage is that you have a few excellent options to choose from. You must examine them and find the best fit for your model and the intended applications.
Let’s start with these two considerations;

• Block vs Bar Tread
• General Duty vs Heavy Duty

Block vs Bar Tread

The block tread is known for its good quality and durability. It is excellent for a wide range of use, except for snow removal, where it does a below-par job. The bar tread, on the other hand, is the ideal all-season track. It comes in handy if you expect to use your track on different terrains, including snow. Its ground disturbance level is low and leaves behind a good finish always. With the bar tread, your operator will also get a smoother ride on asphalt, concrete, and other hard surfaces.

General Duty vs Heavy Duty

You may also have to choose between general-duty and heavy-duty tracks. What separates both are the pricing, expected service life, and hours of operation. The general-duty rubber tracks are more suitable for users who want to lower their costs of ownership and operations. Heavy-duty tracks come in wide or narrow track widths and block or bar tread patterns. Your choice between the wide or narrow track widths will depend on what you use the machine for.

For example, the wider track option is more suitable if your application requires a low ground pressure with improved floatation. Conversely, if your application requires the narrowest overall machine width, the narrow track operation will be ideal. Once you have decided what to go for, check in with your local dealer to confirm the availability of the CAT parts.

Alternatively, you can reach out to your manufacturer directly to confirm the availability of new tracks for your compact track loader. For instance, owners of CAT compact track loaders can check with their local CAT dealers to discuss their specific CAT parts needs depending on their applications and receive expert guidance on available options.

In Conclusion

Like other parts of your machine, adequate maintenance is the only way to get the best output and longest possible lifespan out of your compact track loader’s rubber track. In addition to the maintenance tips provided in this article, we recommend consulting your operations and maintenance manual for instructions specific to your track loader’s make and model.

Finally, your rubber tracks cannot serve forever, even with the best maintenance culture. When ready for a change, ensure you choose the correct replacement that suits your intended applications.

Rock trucks are important pieces of equipment on construction sites. But are they suitable for all construction projects? Rock trucks are different because they can work on even the most challenging terrains. So, whether you are mining or running a quarry project or general construction works, they come in handy.

 

A rock truck or articulated dump truck (ADT) or articulating hauler or dump hauler refers to a machine used for construction projects involving uneven terrains. What distinguishes the rock truck is the chassis, the front cab, and the back dump – the two separate parts responsible for the sheer power of the trucks.

Components of a Rock Truck

The front cab is where you have the controls, and the back helps in hauling materials, transporting debris, and dumping. There is also rear and front suspension that helps to stabilize the load, ensuring smoother rides.

The front axels deliver the load stabilization by controlling the extent of sideways movement. It is a safety feature considering it prevents roll-over. It also prevents losing the load – a must-have feature for trucks running on different terrains. This true off-road dumping truck has an in-built stabilization and all-wheel drive.

Popular makers of rock trucks include John Deere, Terex, and Caterpillar.

Which Rock Truck Is Right For Your Project?

Rock trucks are specialized, but they fit into more construction projects than you think. You can have them on your projects when dealing with extreme or uneven terrains. They are also helpful on worksites involving height constraints, tight turns, steep slopes, or slippery floors. You can move large amounts of materials over long distances using a rock truck.

You want to avoid running a rock truck on residential roads due to their size. Instead, use them for massive projects where you need to move materials within site.

Below is a list of five various projects you can use a rock truck for;

1. Mining Projects

Mining projects almost always come with moving tons of dirt and mined materials from the mine to create a clear path. This is where rock trucks shine – they can move debris away from inside the mine.

The tight-space, uneven, rocky nature of mining site terrains can be difficult to deal with. However, thanks to its heavy-duty and compact design, the large debris and rocks can be easily moved using a rock truck.

The trucks are also easy to maneuver, making them a good fit for tight corners and the limited spaces on a mine.

2. General Construction Projects

Rock trucks have found important applications on industrial and residential job sites. In most cases, they can be combined with an excavator to transport materials, move debris, or dig foundations.

A rock truck rental can make the work easier and faster in large commercial projects or land clearing projects. It assists the excavator in breaking large amounts of load and debris into the truck. The need for fewer loads boosts productivity and saves time.

3. Quarry Projects

Quarries and rock trucks are inseparable. Sharp corners and tight spaces are regular features of quarry projects, similar to mining projects. You need a rock truck to maneuver the unexpected drops, rocky terrain, uneven ground, and steep inclines. This is due to its all-wheel-drive and two-part design.

Having a heavy-duty cab in the rock truck means it can move raw materials from and across quarries and to other locations. You can also use it to clean and move materials

4. Handling of Bulk Materials

You can get a small dump truck to move larger loads efficiently. However, if you will be dealing with bulk materials, it is best to get an articulated dump truck.

Most construction activities are not easy. For instance, you have to break down the debris into various sizes, dimensions, and weights. Only a bigger dump truck can do these effectively.

With the bigger sizes of articulated dump trucks, they can do more work than the regular dump truck, including moving 25-50 tons of weight without any issues.

5. Combination with Water Tanks

There are two parts of the rock truck – the dump part and the front cab. You can replace the dump part with a water tank. The combination comes in handy for spraying water into the air on-site to ease dust dispersal.

If you are doing construction projects in deserts in hot summer or on a dusty site after a long time without rain, having an artificial shower is very important. The spray down helps trap dust particles and limit how much dust other construction equipment is kicking up.

Effective spraying is another way to loosen up dry grounds. In addition, you are protecting construction workers from the adverse effects of construction site dusts with regular spraying.

Projects Where A Rock Truck Shines

We have established how handy a rock truck can be, especially on heavy-duty construction sites. It runs seamlessly on rough terrains, transports bulk materials across the site, and maneuvers in tight spaces to boost productivity.

While you can have your rock truck on many projects, they are best suited for sites where you want to move materials around or with limited spaces, for instance, a quarry or mine.