How to take care of it to avoid premature failure?
No one doubts that the condition of the gearbox has a huge impact on the efficiency and performance of the entire construction machine.
In the season it is easy to forget about the need for regular servicing of the transmission, while taking care of basic operating activities can significantly extend the period of trouble-free operation of the gearbox.
What should you pay special attention to? We write about this in our guide.
We start with changing the transmission oil
This is fundamental, but it turns out that many machine owners wait to change the oil until the end of the season, and this can end very badly. Remember that the machine works in adverse conditions, and the transmission itself must withstand extreme loads, so it is reasonable to increase the frequency of oil changes.
We also draw attention to the need to use oil that meets the standards of the machine manufacturer (information on this can be found in the equipment documentation or obtained from a service specializing in gearbox repairs).
Of course, it is also necessary to regularly check the condition of the transmission oil, and if the operator notices any leaks, he should report it immediately, as replacing seals is always much less expensive than repairing the entire gearbox.
Another important issue is pressure control on the clutch and converter, but this task is best left to a specialized service, and "by the way" the mechanic can check the condition of the crosspieces - if he notes any play, these elements should be replaced.
Trifles that can cause a catastrophe
The trouble-free operation of the transmission is most influenced by the operator and he can notice worrying symptoms in time and report them to his superior, which will help avoid a troublesome breakdown.
The operator cannot ignore noises coming from the drive side, jerkiness when changing gears or alarms displayed in the cabin. Remember that even the most durable transmission cannot withstand improper operation.
So let's remember a few basic rules:
- Never change the direction of travel when the machine is still in motion.
- Do not change gears from off-road to road (and vice versa) or engage four-wheel drive until the machine is stopped.
- Always select gears depending on the load of the machine and the terrain.
- Do not start a not warmed up machine abruptly - after starting in the morning, it is worth letting the engine work for 5 minutes at idle speed.
Failure to perform the mentioned activities always leads to the same finale: a costly breakdown and immobilization of the machine for a long time.
These are not particularly complicated rules and everyone can easily remember them, and finally, it is worth noting that the basis is regular and reliable servicing of the transmission.
