Tips For Longer Undercarriage Life - Komatsu D475A-5E0 Operation & Maintenance Manual

OPERATION

TIPS FOR LONGER UNDERCARRIAGE LIFE

Undercarriage life greatly varies depending on operation method, inspection and maintenance. For most efficient
operation, keep the following point in mind.
OPERATION METHOD
Select the track shoe that best suits the type of soil to be encountered in service.
Consult your Komatsu distributor when selecting track shoes.
Do not allow shoe slipage to occur during operation. If slipage occurs, reduce load to the blade until slipping stops.
Avoid sudden starts, acceleration or stops, unnecessary high speeds and sharp turns.
Always operate machine in a straight line whenever possible. When making turns, be careful not to allow the
machine to stay to one side, so operation in both turning directions can be done properly. Make turns with the
largest possible radius.
Prior to operation, clear boulders and obstacles to prevent machine from riding over them while operating.
On a slope, operate the machine parallel to the inclination of the
slope. Do not operate across the slope. Also when stopping the
machine on a slope, the machine should face the top of the
slope.
When ground inclines to the left or right during digging
operations, do not continue to dig with the incline. Move the
machine back to level ground and start to dig again.
Do not force the machine to perform work that exceeds its
working capability. Such work includes cases where the idler or
sprocket come off the ground when the machine meets
obstacles that resist the power of the machine during dozing or
ripping operations.
INSPECTION AND ADJUSTING
Properly adjust track tension.
Tension should be measured at clearance (A) shown in the
diagram - usually 20 to 30 mm (0.8 to 1.2 in) at this point. For
rocky terrain, tighten tracks slightly. In clay or sandy areas,
slightly loosen them. (For inspection and adjustment
procedures, refer to "CHECK AND ADJUST TRACK TENSION
(PAGE 4-30)").
Check idler rollers for oil leakage as well as for loose bolts and
nuts. If any trouble is detected, repair immediately.
INSPECTION AND REPAIR
Frequent inspection and prompt repair will reduce repair costs.
The following items for inspection will serve as a guide to maintenance service of each undercarriage part. Perform
periodical inspection and contact the Komatsu distributor in your area when machine has approached repairable
limits and reversing limits.
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OPERATION