Preventive Maintenance & Technology
Daily inspections, fluid checks, bushing wear, seal maintenance, hydraulic oil types, telematics, and proportional control.
- Perform systematic daily walk-around inspections
- Identify proper fluid types and levels for all machine systems
- Recognize bushing wear patterns and seal failure indicators
- Select the correct hydraulic oil type for operating conditions
- Explain telematics systems and proportional control operation
Lesson 1
Daily Inspection & Fluid Level Procedures
Walk-Around Inspection
A daily walk-around inspection is the most important preventive maintenance activity. It catches problems before they cause expensive breakdowns or safety hazards. Every operator should perform this inspection before starting the machine each shift.
Fluid Level Checks
Each fluid system has specific checking procedures. Some must be checked cold, others at operating temperature.
| Fluid | When to Check | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | Cold, machine level | Dipstick | Check before starting |
| Coolant | Cold | Sight glass or cap | Never open hot radiator |
| Hydraulic Oil | Warm, cylinders retracted | Sight glass | All cylinders must be retracted |
| Transmission | Warm, engine running | Dipstick | Check in neutral |
| Final Drive | Cold | Sight glass or plug | Machine on level ground |
Hydraulic Oil Level
Always check hydraulic oil with all cylinders fully retracted and the oil at operating temperature. If cylinders are extended, oil is in the cylinders instead of the tank, giving a false low reading.
Fuel Water Separator
The fuel water separator must be drained daily. Water in diesel fuel causes injector damage, corrosion, and poor combustion. Open the drain valve at the bottom of the separator and drain until clear fuel flows.
A daily walk-around inspection is the most important PM activity. Check hydraulic oil with all cylinders retracted and the system warm. Drain the fuel water separator daily to prevent injector damage.