The Front End Loader Maintenance Checklist

What is the front-end loader safe operating procedure?

We recommend performing daily loader maintenance by having a front end loader checklist 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 wheel loader maintenance check. A walkaround inspection before you start will help determine if there are any damaged, loose, or worn parts, fluid leaks, or other problems.

It is actually a good idea to develop front end loader inspection checklist every 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

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 which will need wheel loader repair.

Front End Loader Shutdown Routine

Firstly, try to park your loader on leveled ground and then lower the bucket to the ground.

Then, allow your engine to run for about 3 – 5 minutes before shutting it down to allow the turbocharger to cool down properly.

Once you’ve shut down the front-end loader, record the machine hours on the hour meter.

It’s also good to prepare your loader for the next day’s work by hosing down any dirt and debris as well as filling the fuel tank.

Front End Loader Maintenance in Malaysia

As a construction engineer in Malaysia, you are fully responsible for having a proper heavy equipment maintenance checklist to best cater to your operators.

While a well-trained operator ensures daily upkeep, you need to schedule appropriate wheel loader service and support programs with your heavy machinery manufacturer.

The engineers can help identify and diagnose any potential issues before they grow into larger issues that need costly wheel loaders repair.

Get in touch with a certified and reliable construction heavy machinery supplier in Malaysia like us.