Posted on June 29, 2024.

Maintaining your track skid steer is crucial for maximizing its lifespan and ensuring it performs at its best. 

Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your equipment but also prevents costly repairs and downtime. 

In this article, we will share the top 10 maintenance tips to keep your track skid steer running smoothly. These tips will help you get the most out of your investment and keep your projects on track.

1. Regular Inspections

Conducting regular inspections is the first step in maintaining your track skid steer. By catching potential issues early, you can prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs.

Daily Checks

Perform daily checks before starting your skid steer. Look for any visible damage, leaks, or unusual wear and tear. Ensure all fluids are at the correct levels and that there are no loose bolts or parts.

• Fluid Levels: Check engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel.
• Visual Inspection: Look for leaks, cracks, or signs of wear on hoses, tracks, and attachments.
• Functionality Check: Ensure lights, gauges, and controls are working properly.

2. Keep It Clean

Keeping your track skid steer clean is essential for preventing dirt and debris from causing damage to the machine. Regular cleaning helps maintain the efficiency and longevity of the equipment.

Cleaning Procedures

After each use, clean your skid steer thoroughly. Pay special attention to the undercarriage, tracks, and engine compartment. Remove any mud, dirt, or debris that could affect performance.

• Pressure Washing: Use a pressure washer to remove stubborn dirt and debris.
• Undercarriage: Clean the undercarriage to prevent buildup that can cause wear on tracks and components.
• Engine Compartment: Ensure the engine area is free from debris that could lead to overheating or damage.

3. Proper Lubrication

Lubrication is key to preventing wear and tear on moving parts. Regularly lubricate all grease points and moving parts to keep your skid steer running smoothly.

Lubrication Schedule

Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for lubrication intervals. Use high-quality lubricants to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

• Grease Points: Lubricate all grease points, including the pivot points and lift arms.
• Hydraulic Components: Ensure hydraulic fittings and connections are well-lubricated.
• Bearings and Bushings: Regularly lubricate bearings and bushings to prevent premature wear.

4. Monitor Track Tension

Proper track tension is essential for maximizing the lifespan of your track skid steer. Tracks that are too tight or too loose can cause excessive wear and reduce performance.

Adjusting Track Tension

Check the track tension regularly and adjust as needed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper track tension helps ensure optimal traction and reduces the risk of track damage.

• Check Tension: Inspect track tension before each use.
• Adjust Accordingly: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for adjusting track tension.
• Look for Wear: Inspect tracks for signs of wear or damage and replace if necessary.

5. Fluid and Filter Maintenance

Regularly changing fluids and filters is crucial for maintaining the health of your skid steer’s engine and hydraulic system. Clean fluids and filters help prevent contamination and ensure efficient operation.

Fluid and Filter Replacement

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule for changing engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and filters. Use high-quality fluids and filters to maintain the integrity of the machine.

• Engine Oil: Change engine oil and filter as per the maintenance schedule.
• Hydraulic Fluid: Regularly replace hydraulic fluid and filter to prevent system contamination.
• Air and Fuel Filters: Check and replace air and fuel filters to ensure clean operation.

6. Battery Care

Proper battery maintenance ensures reliable starting and operation of your track skid steer. Regularly check the battery and charging system to prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Battery Maintenance Tips

Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them as needed. Ensure the battery is securely mounted and that the connections are tight.

• Clean Terminals: Remove any corrosion from battery terminals.
• Check Connections: Ensure all battery connections are secure.
• Test Battery: Regularly test the battery’s charge and replace if necessary.

7. Inspect and Maintain the Cooling System

The cooling system is vital for preventing engine overheating. Regular maintenance of the cooling system helps keep the engine running at optimal temperatures.

Cooling System Maintenance

Check the coolant level regularly and top up as needed. Inspect the radiator and hoses for any signs of leaks or damage.

• Coolant Level: Ensure the coolant is at the correct level.
• Radiator: Inspect the radiator for leaks and ensure it is clean.
• Hoses: Check for any cracks or leaks in the hoses and replace if necessary.

8. Maintain Attachments

Attachments are essential for the versatility of your skid steer. Regularly inspect and maintain all attachments to ensure they are in good working condition.

Attachment Care

Clean and lubricate attachments regularly. Check for any signs of wear or damage and repair or replace as needed.

• Cleaning: Clean attachments after each use to prevent buildup.
• Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts on attachments.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect attachments for wear and damage.

9. Proper Storage

Proper storage of your track skid steer can significantly impact its lifespan. Store the machine in a clean, dry place to protect it from the elements.

Storage Tips

When not in use, store your skid steer indoors if possible. If outdoor storage is necessary, use a protective cover to shield the machine from weather conditions.

• Indoor Storage: Store the skid steer indoors to protect from weather damage.
• Protective Cover: Use a cover if storing outdoors.
• Secure Location: Ensure the storage area is secure to prevent theft or vandalism.

10. Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and operation. These guidelines are designed to help you get the most out of your skid steer and ensure its longevity.

Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Refer to the owner’s manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures. Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain the warranty and ensures optimal performance.

• Owner’s Manual: Follow the maintenance schedule outlined in the manual.
• Service Intervals: Adhere to recommended service intervals.
• Warranty: Keep up with maintenance to ensure warranty coverage.

At Faris Rental, LLC, we take pride in our long-standing commitment to providing top-notch and reliable machinery to our valued customers. We provide the industry's finest brands in equipment rental, ensuring that each piece of machinery meets the highest standards of quality and performance.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance is essential for maximizing the lifespan of your track skid steer and ensuring it operates efficiently. By following these top 10 maintenance tips, you can keep your equipment in top condition and avoid costly repairs and downtime.

At Faris Rental, LLC, we offer a wide range of high-quality skid steers for your construction needs. If you have any questions or need assistance with your equipment, please contact us at 860 942 4245 or [email protected]. Let us help you find the perfect equipment for your next project.