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Construction, Mining
Undercarriage maintenance tips
Undercarriage elements are costly but you can maximise their life by taking the following measures. A few consistent practices—like keeping tracks properly adjusted, cleaning them regularly, and monitoring wear—go a long way toward extending component life.
Extending undercarriage life
1. Maintain proper track adjustment.
Tracks that are too loose or too tight increase wear and fuel use. Always ensure your tracks are adjusted to the specifications outlined in your operation and maintenance manual.
2. Keep tracks clean.
Dirt, mud, and debris build-up accelerate wear and reduce efficiency. Use a high-pressure hose to clean thoroughly, and remove packed material before or after each shift to keep performance consistent.
3. Reduce reversing.
Tracks last longer when moving forward. Frequent reversing not only increases wear on components but also raises fuel consumption—small habits that make a big difference over time.
4. Know your working conditions.
Abrasive materials, moisture, and uneven terrain can quickly wear down undercarriage components. Regular inspections and timely pin-and-bush turns help extend service life far beyond traditional run-to-failure approaches. Understanding the relationship between material type, ground moisture, and operating technique allows you to be proactive.
5. Measure and monitor wear.
Schedule undercarriage inspections with your Komatsu product support representative at least every six months—and even more frequently in demanding or high-utilization sites. Precise wear measurements guide data-driven recommendations on when to turn pins and bushes, rotate rollers, or replace sprocket rings. This free Komatsu inspection service helps you manage your equipment lifecycle with confidence. When combined with regular cleaning and correct track tension, these practices can deliver up to 60 percent longer track life.