Wheel loader walk-around pointers

By |  September 13, 2022
Before operating a loader, check for chips and cracks in the windows. Also, make sure the glass is free of dirt that could present safety issues. Photo: P&Q Staff

Before operating a loader, check for chips and cracks in the windows. Also, make sure the glass is free of dirt that could present safety issues. Photo: P&Q Staff

Wheel loaders take a pounding.

They work in material that wears away the very steel from which they’re built. They lift and carry enormous loads across uneven terrain for hours on end. And they fight dust that’s determined to go places it shouldn’t.

The burden on wheel loaders is lessened, however, when owners and operators practice proper maintenance. Here are a few considerations to help maximize a wheel loader’s uptime – and, ultimately, improve productivity, extend service life and make your operation safer.

Checking the equipment

A daily wheel loader walk-around inspection – both before and after operation – is an essential part of the workday.

Operators should check loader buckets and other ground-engaging tools for signs of wear or cracking during regular walk-arounds. Photo: P&Q Staff

Operators should check loader buckets and other ground-engaging tools for signs of wear or cracking during regular walk-arounds. Photo: P&Q Staff

Before beginning the day, operators should check all routine daily items associated with fluids and filters. As with personal health, prevention is the best medicine with loaders. Spotting something wrong before work goes a long way to prevent serious issues.

Operators must also pay close attention to features of the machine that contribute to safety – both for the machine itself and the people working around it. Make sure no unnecessary obstructions impair the operator’s visibility. Check for chips and cracks in the windows. Glass should be free of dirt and cleaned frequently, and wiper blades and windshield cleaning fluid levels must be maintained.

Other components to check during pre- and post-operation walk-arounds are running lights, rearview cameras, backup alarms and safety belts. Watch for debris accumulation, too. Are steps cleared to prevent slipping? Are handrails clean? Have air vents been cleared to prevent steaming in the cab?

In addition to safety, operators should focus on a loader’s wear items. Check ground-engaging tools and buckets during the walk-around for signs of wear or cracking.

In addition to the pre-operation check, operators should do the same checks when shifts are over. This is often the best time to spot cracks, leaks or other damage that occurred that day.

Information for this article adopted from Pit & Quarry University.


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