6 Signs That Your Excavator Needs Repairs

No matter the scale of the construction project, chances are your company will need an excavator at some point to remove soil, dig holes, or move debris around. While excavators are sturdy machines designed to last, like all heavy equipment they may develop a few faults over time. Just like all machinery, excavator issues can arise from improper use or just from general wear and tear. Once damage occurs, undetected issues can compound, leading to equipment breakdown and more expensive repairs. That’s why being able to tell when your excavator needs repairs is crucial.  

Nobody wants to have to deal with a broken-down excavator and the costly downtime incurred as a result. Here are 6 signs that your excavator needs repairs.  

1. Unusual sounds and vibrations 

Excavators can be quite noisy when operated, however, unusual sounds and excessive vibrations are signs that your excavator needs repairs. Strange sounds can be the result of an overdue service. Left untended, these issues can cause further damage to your excavator. It is essential that you contact a heavy equipment specialist like SuperService™ as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the issue. 

2. Illuminated warning lights/alarm sounding 

Warning lights or an alarm sounding are two examples of in-built alerts that indicate there is an issue. The check engine light, for instance, is an alert that can turn on due to a simple problem, such as low coolant, low engine oil, overheating, or because of a more severe engine fault. Once a warning light comes or an alarm has been activated, it’s important to promptly react by shutting the machine down and taking it to a heavy mechanic to prevent further damage or the need to replace the excavator altogether. 

3. Your excavator has stopped working 

One of the most obvious signs that your excavator needs repairs is when the engine stops running. If this occurs, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll need to replace your excavator. One malfunctioning component could have prevented another from working. A specialist heavy mechanic service, like the savvy and resourceful team at SuperService™, can run diagnostics to determine the fault and repair it. 

4. Reduced performance   

Reduced performance is another indication that your excavator may need servicing or repairs. This can be caused by various issues, such as fuel or lubricant contamination, leaks, damaged parts, or a problem with the hydraulic system. When you notice a decline in your excavator’s performance, it is best to take prompt action and have the issue addressed by a professional. 

5. Leaking fluids 

Oil, coolant, and hydraulic fluid leaks can cause considerable damage to your excavator. Over time, these leaks can lead to your excavator losing power and overheating, causing costly downtime of your machine. External damage to the hosing and pipes during use is the most common cause of fluid leakage. If you notice a leak, you should immediately contact a repair specialist to fix the issue before it produces additional damage. 

6. Thick or black exhaust 

Black or thick emissions can be a sign of a malfunction, such as a clogged air filter, or a dirty fuel injector. Whatever the cause, black or thick exhaust indicates that your excavator is working harder than it should, contributing to potential engine damage and increased fuel consumption. It’s a sign that your excavator needs to be tended to by a heavy equipment mechanic.   

How SuperService™ can help you 

If you notice any of these signs of excavator malfunction, speak to our dependable team at SuperService™. The heavy equipment specialists, SuperService™ can fix the issue and have your excavator back in action in no time. Contact us to learn more about how we can help with all your excavator repair needs. 

Interested in learning more about maintaining your excavator’s undercarriage? Check out Tackling Undercarriage Wear: How to Expand the Lifespan of Your Excavator’s Vital Components