Forest Operations > Conduct Skidder Operations > Maintaining the Skidder

Picture examples of component checks and procedures

Walk Around Skidder Inspection

• Check under the machine for signs of fluid leaks;
• Check for loose bolts and nuts in all areas;
• Tyre inflation;
• Check for cracks in cabin, articulation & boom;
• Check for wear and leaks in hydraulic hoses and fittings;
• Check for signs of tampering.

Maintenance Schedule 8/10 Hours or Daily

• Engine oil level;
• Engine coolant level;
• Hydraulic oil level;
• Transmission oil;
• Air filter pre-cleaner;
• Outer air filter only;
• Fuel / water separator;
• Lubrication / grease points;
• House keeping;
• Walk around machine inspection.

Engine Oil Level

• Remove the dipstick, wipe clean;
• Re-insert and remove to get a true reading.

Fig 6

Dipstick Markings

If the reading is below this mark, oil needs to be added

Fig 6a

Coolant Level

Caution! Remove cap only when the engine is cool.

Check the container for level marks.

Fig 7

Hydraulic Oil Level

The oil level should be within the indicated area Oil level. It is very important to release hydraulic pressure from the tank before topping up with oil.

Fig 8

Transmission Oil Level

The transmission may need to be at operating temperature. Check the operator manual for the correct procedure. The engine may require running for a correct reading.

Fig 9

Air Pre-Cleaner

Empty the air pre-cleaner when dust reaches the upper maximum level.

Fig 10

Air Filter Housing

Turn the primary filter 1/2 a turn before removal to prevent dirt falling on the secondary filter.

Fig 11

Fuel & Water Separator

Loosen the drain to remove any water and sediment into a suitable container.

Re-tighten the drain after water has been removed.

Fig 12

Lubrication

Fig 13

All pivot points require lubrication.

Ensure all shut down & park procedures are followed before entering this area.

Housekeeping

• Clean the windows;
• Put tools in their correct storage place;
• Clean up spilt oils or fuel;
• Keep the cab clean, you will be spending most of your working day in there.

Fig 14

Fire Prevention

Remove any build up of debris. Depending on the type of operation, you may need to do this several times a day.

Fig 15

Fire Extinguishers

Before starting work, unlock fire extinguishers on the machine and

• do regular checks to ensure extinguishers are charged.
• make sure you know the correct fire extinguisher to use for the type of fire, and how to use it.

Fan / Air con. Belts

Fig 16

Engine Starter Motor

Fig 17

• Large heavy forest machinery usually require heavy duty starter motors.
• They must be kept clean and free of fuel, oils and debris.
• Regularly check that the power terminal nuts are tight and for any damage to wiring.

Alternator

Most machines have an alternator warning light in the cabin. If the light come on the alternator may need:

1. Replacing;
2. Servicing;
3. Drive belts to alternator may need adjusting.                                                                    

Fig 18

Engine Turbo Charger

Fig 19

• The turbo charger forces air into the engine to greatly increase its horse power. Turbo chargers are driven by the exhaust gasses at extremely high revolutions.
• Before shutting any turbo engine off, it must be idled down for 3 to 5 minutes to cool and avoid any turbo damage.

Tyres and Wheel Nuts

Fig 20

• Check for signs of movement around wheel nuts. In the dryer months there will be a shiny ring around the nuts.
• In the wet months, when the machine has been idle over night, there will be a rusty ring around the nuts.
• Check for cuts, splits or debris sticking out of the tyre.

Fig 21