Excavators are the backbone of construction, mining, and other fields that require scooping. Their ability to maneuver around various types of terrains, as well as rotating 360 degrees, makes them very popular. Since projects are different, caterpillar excavators vary in size, from mini excavators to mining excavator. The activity dictates your choice of the excavator you are carrying out.
Although excavators are built to handle high-intensity tasks, like any other machine, they might breakdown. One of the significant reasons you caterpillar excavator is likely to suddenly failure is a faulty final drive motor. Once this happens, you can only proceed after a replacement, which should be as soon as possible.
While shopping for a final drive motor for caterpillar, below are some of the things you should keep in mind. The more knowledge, the easier it gets while looking for a replacement.
1. Basic Machine Knowledge
You don’t need to be an expert to have a glimpse of your machine information. At least, ensure that you know your machine’s brand, model, and year of manufacture. If you have your machine’s serial number, the better. This information forms the basis of your final drive motor purchase.
2. Know about the Final Drive Motor for Caterpillar
Once you have basic knowledge about your machine, it is also essential to know about the caterpillar final drive travel motors you are replacing. Once again, just some basic knowledge is enough. Find out the model as well as the manufacturer. Also, take time to count the number of hydraulic hose connections. Depending on the hose connections, you can determine whether your drive motor is a 2-speed model.
In many instances, people experience challenges trying to determine whether they need a single-speed motor or a dual speed motor. To determine, calculate the number of hydraulic lines. If they are four, then a single speed motor is what you need.If you find five hydraulic lines, then you need a dual speed motor.
Another critical thing to note is the flange that attaches to the sprocket. Look keenly and record the number of holes as well as the screw size. Then repeat the procedure on the flange that attaches to the undercarriage. On the same note, write down the dimensions to ensure you receive the correct motor.
3. Understanding Hydraulic Contamination
Hydraulic contamination is a significant problem in all types of hydraulic equipment, including caterpillar final drive travel motors. There are various types of hydraulic contamination. Here is a comprehensive compilation.
Built-in Contamination
All new equipment is bound to have some built-in contamination. This is the contamination that results from the manufacturing process. It can be in the form of grease, welding residue, grains of sand, or even a tiny piece of thread. Although they might sound negligible, they can significantly affect the efficiency of your final drive motor.
To curb built-in contamination, some experts recommend that you flush your hydraulic system before installing any new components. Alternatively, you can use filters.
Generated Contamination
This contamination piles up as your caterpillar final drive travel motors continue to run. It might consist of fine metal particles that resemble dust. They are as a result of metal coming into contact with metal. Gradually, the particles increase in size, consequently affecting your machine’s efficiency.Although you cannot wholly avoid generated contamination, you can control it by use of filters.
Water
Water is another enemy to your final drive’s hydraulic system. Just like air, it affects compressibility. Besides, it can also lead to corrosion issues and reduces the effectiveness of a lubricant. Avoid exposing your hydraulic fluid to the atmosphere. Also, store any unused hydraulic fluid in sealed containers.
When replacing your caterpillar final drive travel motors, ensure you buy the best. Also, ensure you actively prevent contamination to increase its life span. Our family at Mini Final Drives has been providing excellent quality, value, and service for over 50 years, and you can continue to count on us for a lifetime of friendly, helpful support for all your final drive and travel motor needs. Call us today at 877-483-2806 or visit our online store at www.minifinaldrives.com to find and order what you need today for fast and free delivery to your door.