Regular checks and maintenance:
· Always make sure you use the correct type and grade of oil, as per the manufacturer’s specifications. Don’t be tempted to use engine oil in your transmission; engine oils are designed to create slip, which is something you don’t want in transmission oil. Transmissions rely on friction to drive the machine; the oil is there to provide lubrication. Using the wrong oil will reduce performance and productivity, reduce component life and cause overheating.
· Check transmission oil levels at the beginning and the end of each shift. Low oil levels will cause overheating, accelerate wear and result in catastrophic damage if too low.
· Check the transmission for oil leaks at the beginning and end of each shift ... and notify your maintenance people if you see any leaks.
· Keep the radiator/oil cooler fins clear of material build up (grass, mud, dirt, waste products, etc), especially around the corners and edges where the fan doesn’t blow.
· Ensure you carry out all transmission services as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, in terms of service intervals and types of service.
· Change filters according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. At the same time, use the opportunity to check the strainers.
· Always use genuine filters ... and cut them open at changeover time as a visual check for grit, worn metal and oil condition. Use a UV lamp to check for holes in the filter media.
· Use oil analysis regularly, and take note of the trends being indicated ... and the recommendations of your distributor.
· Make use of the recommended transmission analysis services offered by your distributor, such as Komatsu's PM2 periodic check. This service provides an indication of the health of your transmission. Issues covered include oil pressure level checks, engine and hydraulic stall speeds and transmission modulation cycle times (gear shift speeds).
· Slow cycle times and low oil pressures to transmission clutch packs can cause transmission clutch plate slippage and eventual failure. Early detection of both of these can prevent major transmission overhaul repair costs. These prefailure PM2 analysis checks are similar to the way your doctor checks your blood pressure, pulse and temperature. Mechanical equipment is no different and requires the same treatment.
Operational
· Ensure you have the correct tyre/shoe size for the application. Oversize tyres or track shoes can overload the transmission, resulting in shorter life.
· On rubbertyred machines, check tyre wear, between back and front, and left hand and right hand. Uneven tyre wear will put a lot of extra strain on the transmission, as it tries to cope with wheels rotating at different speeds.
· Make sure you are using the correct bucket/blade/body to suit the material density. Again, using oversized elements will put additional strain on the transmission, as well as other components.
· Don’t labour or stall the machine going into a pile, pushing dirt, or hauling up an incline; use a lower gear.
· When changing direction from forward to reverse, or when fullpower load shifting, always `back off` on the accelerator a little before making the change, to help extend transmission component life. The transmission may be modulated, but the mechanical drive shafts and final drive gears are not. "Backing off" cushions shocks to the drive train.
· Always keep a close eye on the transmission/torque converter temperature gauges.
· Be alert to transmireverse, etc) as this may indicate low oil pressure or transmission valve blockage or failure. If you notice this occurring, report it at once; it could mean major problems with the transmission.