The essentials of front end loader maintenance
Beyond your operating skills, an expert front-end loader operator should be acknowledgeable in daily maintenance. The most fundamental reasons for doing daily front-end loader maintenance are to help extend the machinery lifespan, increase uptime and increase productivity.
What is the front-end loader safe operating procedure?
We recommend performing daily loader maintenance and inspection during these four key times – before starting the loader, while the heavy equipment is warming up, and during the machinery shut down.
- Front end loader prestart checks
- Warm-up checks
- During work loader check
- The shutdown routine
Front end loader prestart check
Before starting your loader, conduct a thorough check on the equipment. A walkaround inspection before you start will help determine if there are any damaged, loose or worn parts, fluid leaks, or other problems.
In fact, it is actually a good idea to develop a checklist of things to look for each time you use the front-end loader. Some of the key items that you should check are:
- Tire pressures and tire damage
- Loose, worn or damaged parts
- Fan belt wear and tension
- Battery connections for corrosion
- Oil or coolant leaks
- Engine oil and other vital fluid levels
- Grease the machinery according to the manufacturer’s recommendation
- Ensure the windows and mirrors are cleaned and adjusted
Also, take note of the air filter system as it plays a huge role in the degree of engine wear and performance. So, ensure to clean it and dump out any excess dust or debris.
Not to forget, record the hour meter reading right before starting your front end loader. By monitoring the hour meter reading, you can determine when you should do periodic maintenance.
Inspection during warm-up
First and foremost, let the engine run for 5 to 10 minutes upon start to allow the oil pressure to build and lubricate the engine’s moving parts. Doing so allows the cooling system to reach the proper operating temperature.
Then, if you hear anything unusual during the engine warm-up, shut it down and try to navigate the problem.
Besides that, ensure that the electric system is charging and the oil pressure and temperature are both reading the safe zone.
As the final step, test the brakes and move the bucket through a series of normal operations.
Front end loader during work
Continuously monitor your equipment’s performance during operation. Listen for unusual noises, check all gauges, and be aware of any changes that may appear on the operator’s display.
Furthermore, you need to maintain a proper bucket capacity to prevent overloading the front-end loader which also helps in controlling spillage that minimizes tire damage.
Forcing too much into the bucket can result in spinning tires, slower cycle times, reduced productivity, and higher fuel consumption.
Front end loader shutdown routine
Firstly, try to park your loader on a leveled ground and then lower the bucket to the ground.
Then, allow your engine to run for about three to five minutes before shutting it down to allow the turbocharger to cool down correctly.
Once you’ve shut down the front-end loader, record the machine hours on the hour meter.
It’s also a good idea to prepare your loader for the next day’s work by hosing down any dirt and debris as well as by filling the fuel tank.
Front End Loader Maintenance in Malaysia
As a construction engineer in Malaysia, you are fully responsible for checking on your front-end loader to best cater to your operators.
While a well-trained operator is essential to ensure daily upkeep, you need to schedule appropriate service and support programs with your heavy machinery manufacturer.
The engineers can help identify and diagnose any potential issues in real-time before they grow into a larger issue.
Suggested read: How to Operate Front End Loader Safely.
Ensure that you get in touch with a certified and reliable construction heavy machinery supplier in Malaysia like us.
We at B&F Group, are committed to equipping your civil construction projects with ideal and well-inspected Changlin construction machinery.
Stuck deciding on how to choose them for your construction projects? Get in touch with our attentive sales team and they will guide you through.
