6 Compact Excavator Maintenance Tips to Boost Machine Performance

Preventive maintenance is critical to keeping your excavator and your business operating smoothly. Developing a planned maintenance schedule that includes these six tips will keep you, your operators and your compact machines on the job.

Understanding how to safely operate your compact excavator also helps keep your machine on the jobsite. Before you start your next project, make sure you know these proper lifting techniques.

Compact Excavator Maintenance Tips to Boost Machine Performance

Tip No. 1 – Read the Operation & Maintenance Manual
Everything you need to know about your compact excavator is found in your Operation & Maintenance Manual. Get detailed information about the machine’s service schedules, maintenance points and much more.

Tip No. 2 – Understand proper fluid levels and correct filters
Using the correct fluids and lubricants can prevent expensive and unnecessary repairs. Changing filters at recommended intervals helps reduce potential system contamination and extend the life of core components.

Tip No. 3 – Check the battery
Compact construction machines constantly draw on the battery. Check your excavator’s battery before operation. If you disconnect the battery during the off-season, be sure the battery is fully charged before reconnecting it.

Tip No. 4 – Inspect the tracked undercarriage
Keep excavator tracks clear of debris to reduce wear and damage. Inspect tracks for signs of damage, and check rollers, idlers and drives for fluid leaks that could lead to more serious failure.

Tip No. 5 – Prepare attachments daily
Visually inspect hydraulic hoses, cylinders and guards on excavator attachments to check for damage or excessive wear before daily operation.

Tip No. 6 – Create a planned maintenance schedule
Prevent avoidable downtime and sudden, costly repairs by creating a planned maintenance (PM) contract with your Bobcat compact equipment dealer. A PM contract keeps your excavator operating on the jobsite by ensuring service is performed on schedule and at a convenient time. A PM contract with a planned maintenance schedule can extend the life of the equipment, minimize downtime and save you money over time.