Komatsu PC18MR-3, Operation & Maintenance Manual

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MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
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4.9.1.g CHECKING AND ADJUSTING THE RUBBER TRACK TENSION
The rubber tracks wear out to different degrees, depending on the work conditions and on the characteristics of
the surface on which the machine is working. Therefore, it is necessary to check the track wear and tension fre-
quently, in order to keep the tracks correctly tensioned.
IMPORTANT
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To carry out the check and the corresponding maintenance operation, stop the machine on firm and lev-
el ground. Check both tracks.
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In particular, on new machines or after the installation of new tracks, it is advisable to carry out a first
check after 10 hours of operation.
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Adjusting the track tension frequently until the initial slackening does not occur any longer will prevent
the tracks from coming off due to insufficient tension.
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If the machine works with loose rubber tracks, they may come off and cause the steel cores to wear out
too early.
CHECK
1. With the engine idling, move the machine forward of a
distance corresponding to the length of the track on the
ground, then lower the equipment to the ground and stop the
engine.
2. Choose a perfectly flat rod (3) long enough to cover the
distance between the idler roller (1) and the track sliding plate
(2), then position it on the track.
3. Measure the maximum deflection between the upper surface
of the track and the lower surface of the rod.
Standard deflection
The deflection “a“ should be included between 1 and 3 mm.
If the track tension does not correspond to the standard value, ad-
just it by proceeding as indicated below.
ADJUSTMENT
DANGER
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The grease contained in the hydraulic cylinder is pressu-
rized. For this reason, do not give the grease valve (1) more
than one turn when loosening it; in fact, if the valve is loos-
ened excessively it may be pushed out due to the grease
pressure and this is very dangerous for the operator..
Do not loose any component apart from the valve (1). If the
track tension does not decrease after this operation, con-
tact your Komatsu Distributor.
WARNING
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If the resistance met when injecting the grease is exces-
sive, move the machine forward and backward covering a
short distance.