Basic information and a few tips
Construction machines are unruly devices that like to break down at the least expected moment. However, let's remember that they are still just machines, and their reliability largely depends on our effort put into maintenance and service of the equipment we own.
This time we will deal with the gearbox. This element tends to break down, but there are a few ways to extend the lifespan of this component.
Gearbox - role and function
The gearbox in every vehicle plays a key role - it is responsible for its smooth and safe movement. It is the task of this transmission to change the speed and torque, which is supplied by the engine and thus smooth driving is possible even on uneven surfaces or inclines.
The gearboxes of individual construction machines differ in their construction, but generally the basic part for all gearboxes are gears, which rotate in the same direction as the output shaft, and depending on the selected gear, individual baskets are set in motion.
Regularly check and change the oil
We all know and remember that we need to change the engine oil, but too often we forget that the gear oil also requires checking and changing.
Every construction machinery manufacturer strictly specifies how often the gearbox oil should be changed, so let's do it according to the recommendations and always use only oil of the appropriate specification - otherwise we shorten the life of the system and risk losing the warranty.
It is also obvious that the condition of the oil in the gearbox must be constantly checked, as construction machines often work in difficult conditions, so the gearboxes are also exposed to all kinds of mechanical damage.
Benefits of regular gearbox maintenance
Thanks to regular oil changes we not only ensure better lubrication, but also flush out harmful impurities and deposits with the old oil.
It is also absolutely necessary to remember to use oil of the appropriate viscosity - neglecting this issue can result in the inability to drive the equipment effectively.
From time to time, it is worth asking the service to perform a control pressure measurement on the clutch and converter, and during such an inspection, also ask to check the condition of the crosspieces and mounts.
This issue is particularly important if, during the operation of the machine, the operator reports worrying knocks and grinds coming from the vicinity of the drive.
It is worth remembering that a quick reaction at this stage will still avoid high repair costs.
The gearbox requires sensible treatment
Of course, the biggest impact on the lifespan of the gearbox is the way it is treated by the operator. One of the basic rules that the operator should pay attention to is the warning never to start the machine when there is still cold oil in the gearbox.
The best thing to do is simply to allow the engine to work for five minutes at idle, which will allow the internal combustion engine to reach the appropriate working temperature. It is also important to check the operation of individual mechanical systems before starting actual work.
What to avoid?
Aggressive driving is absolutely out of the question! Gear changes must be smooth, without jerks - we always match the gear to the weight of the load and the type of terrain in which we work.
Remember also that you should not change gears from off-road mode to road mode and vice versa when the machine is in motion - the same applies to engaging permanent four-wheel drive.
Finally, let's remember that the gearbox does not serve to change the direction of travel when the machine is in motion - huge overload forces act on it then and you should always stop first to change the gear ratio.
Final tips
Following all these tips will certainly extend the life of the gearbox in a construction machine and avoid high repair costs, so we would like to appeal to operators: Check the condition of the transmission on an ongoing basis, as any major trouble with the drive is preceded by certain symptoms that need to be detected in time!
Initial, minor gearbox faults usually do not cause the machine to be immobilized, which may encourage further driving, but we strongly advise against such an approach, as it is a straight path to serious problems.
Replacing or overhauling the transmission is always a significant cost and it is not worth waiting until the machine stops driving or we smell burning.
