Total Landscape Care Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/371302
equipment matters "Make sure to have those fl uids at the full and proper levels," Fitzgerald says. Check the hydraulic oil, which is on the top right, to make sure the levels are correct. The gauge will either be on the top or side, depending on the model. The oil type is also important because it needs to be compatible with the treatment system on the machine – whether it be a catalyst or fi lter on the exhaust system. "One of the things that's important on newer machines and all new equipment that's made to meet EP requirements for Tier 4 is the engine oil you use," Fitzgerald says. "You want to make sure you use a CGA 4 or above-level oil that's approved for these engines." Next, look at the cooling components to make sure they are clean and getting the proper airfl ow through. The cooling recovery bottle, which is to the left of the air fi lter, should be full. 4 0 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c o m S E P T E M B E R 2 014 Look at the gauge on your hydraulic oil daily to make sure the levels are where they need to be. To extend the life of a skid steer, operators should follow these three simple operating tips from Jona- thon Ferguson, Terex Construction Americas. 1 Know your surroundings. Operators must constantly be aware of where the skid steer loader is operating, how it is operating and its proximity to existing infrastructure, landscaping or other jobsite objects during operation. Unintentional contact, even the slightest bump, with objects in the loader's work zone can result in potential structural damage, like cracks or dents, which could inhibit the machine's future performance and productivity. 2 Match the attachment to the machine. With such a wide variety of attachments available for use on a skid steer, it is important the attachment is correctly sized for the machine. For instance, an oversized attachment may become too heavy for the loader to repeatedly lift overhead, causing premature wear to the loader's lift arm cylinders. Also, the wrong size of attachment can cause the machine to become off balance during operation, which could also result in extra wear on the machine's components. Correctly sizing the attachment to the skid steer loader's particular capacity will increase cycle times and utilization rates. 3 Maintain proper tire infl ation. Because skid steers have no frame suspension to soften the ride, the air in the tires provides the only cushion between the loader and the ground. Proper tire pressure and balance is critical for stability and durability. Under-infl ated tires, over-infl ated tires or if the tire pressure from tire to tire varies greatly can result in accelerated wear and tear on the machine. 3 WAYS TO EXTEND LIFE OF SKID STEER