Excavators often experience chain drop issues during operation, which means the tracks come off. This is especially common for older machines. So, what should be done if an excavator has a chain drop?

Installation Tip 1: Precise Alignment and Gradual Adjustment

When all the tracks on one side of an excavator fall off, follow these steps for installation. First, align the drive wheel properly, use the bucket to lift the upper track, and ensure that the drive wheel is accurately aligned and enters the track. Then, get off the machine and use tools such as iron rods to carefully adjust, aligning the drive teeth with the upper idler wheel. At this point, one-third of the installation work is completed.

Next, lift the machine to make it move on one side, keeping the tracks straight. Lift the machine again and get off to adjust the lower track, trying to align the support wheels with the track as much as possible when the track is lowered. This step is often overlooked by operators, but it has a significant impact on the normal operation and service life of the tracks. After completing this step, two-thirds of the installation work is done.

Finally, gently lift the excavator with the bucket and use the bucket teeth to hook the track, allowing the guide wheel to enter the track. Then, carefully adjust the track to align it with the guide wheel. Next, rotate the track and add grease. At this point, the track assembly is complete and the excavator can resume normal operation.

Installation Tip 2: Skillful Use of Tools and Coordinated Operation

Another method for installing the tracks also has its unique advantages. First, turn the chain's live pin joint to the middle height at both ends and use a tool to knock it out. At this point, the track plates can be laid flat in a straight line. Then, operate the excavator to move unilaterally directly above the tracks.

During this process, an iron rod is needed to "guide" the track plate to the correct position. Start assembling from the drive wheel, place the iron rod under the track plate, lift the machine and rotate the track. At the same time, arrange one person to operate the walking in the cab, lift the track and rotate it forward while it passes through the upper idler wheel and walks to the position of the guide wheel.

Place an object at the guide wheel as a support, then connect the two sides of the track, and install the live pin shaft to complete the installation. This method is also applicable to the assembly of rubber tracks, but due to the aging of the live pins, it is difficult to knock them in, and even welding and cutting equipment may be required to complete the assembly. Therefore, it is generally not recommended.

Experts in construction machinery maintenance point out that mastering the correct installation techniques for excavator tracks not only boosts construction efficiency, reduces equipment downtime, but also effectively lowers maintenance costs and extends the equipment's service life. When construction workers encounter issues with excavator tracks coming off, they can choose the appropriate installation method based on the actual situation and strictly follow the operation steps to ensure the installation work is completed safely and smoothly.