Poclain 60 Drive Gear Oil Change

[MikePhua]

Overview of Poclain 60
The Poclain 60 is a compact hydraulic excavator produced by the French company Poclain, which has a history dating back to the 1920s, originally pioneering hydraulic drive systems. The Poclain 60 features a 6-ton operating weight, a 30–35 hp diesel engine, and a hydraulic travel system with integrated planetary gear reduction. The machine is known for its robust hydraulic motors and gear-driven final drives, making proper maintenance essential for longevity and performance.

Importance of Drive Gear Oil
Drive gear oil lubricates the planetary gears and bearings within the final drive assembly. Without proper lubrication:

• Gear teeth can wear prematurely.
  
• Bearings may overheat and fail.
  
• Hydraulic efficiency drops, affecting travel speed and control.
  

For machines like the Poclain 60, manufacturers recommend changing the drive gear oil every 500–700 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Using a high-quality gear oil with EP additives ensures the gears can handle the torque without excessive wear.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Appropriate gear oil (typically SAE 80W-90 EP or manufacturer-specified grade)
  
• Drain pan or container to collect old oil
  
• Socket set or wrench for drain and fill plugs
  
• Clean rags for wiping spills
  
• Funnel for refilling
  
• Torque wrench (if specified for plugs)
  

Step-by-Step Gear Oil Change

1. Safety Preparation
   • Park the excavator on a level surface.
     
   • Lower the boom and attachments to the ground.
     
   • Ensure the engine is off and hydraulic pressure is relieved.
     
2. Locate Drain Plug
   • The Poclain 60 has rear-mounted final drive housings.
     
   • Identify the drain plug at the bottom of each final drive.
     
3. Drain Old Oil
   • Place the container under the drain plug.
     
   • Remove the plug carefully and allow all oil to flow out.
     
   • Inspect for metal shavings or debris, which can indicate gear or bearing wear.
     
4. Clean the Plug and Housing
   • Wipe the drain plug and surrounding area.
     
   • Replace the washer if present to prevent leaks.
     
5. Refill with New Gear Oil
   • Locate the fill plug, usually on the side or top of the final drive housing.
     
   • Use a funnel to pour in new oil until it reaches the bottom of the fill hole, indicating full capacity.
     
   • Typical capacity per final drive is around 1.5–2 liters, depending on exact model.
     
6. Check for Leaks and Proper Level
   • Replace the fill plug and tighten according to specifications.
     
   • Start the machine and move the tracks slowly to circulate the oil.
     
   • Recheck the oil level and top off if necessary.
     

Tips and Best Practices

• Always use the manufacturer-specified gear oil. Using a lower-grade oil can reduce bearing life by up to 30%.
  
• Keep a maintenance log to track oil changes and hours.
  
• If unusual noises occur after refilling, recheck the level and quality of oil.
  
• In some cases, final drives may have magnetic drain plugs that catch metallic particles — inspect these during each oil change.
  

Common Issues During Gear Oil Change

• Difficulty removing plugs: Often due to rust or debris. Use penetrating oil or heat carefully.
  
• Oil contamination: Milky or frothy oil can indicate water ingress, requiring further inspection.
  
• Excessive metal particles: Can signal worn gears or bearings, necessitating a rebuild or replacement.
  

Conclusion
Regular drive gear oil changes in the Poclain 60 are critical for the longevity of the final drive assembly. Following a structured procedure — proper draining, inspection, and refilling — ensures smooth operation and prevents costly breakdowns. Keeping an eye on metal shavings and oil condition provides early warning for gear or bearing issues, allowing preventive maintenance rather than emergency repairs. A well-maintained Poclain 60 can last 15–20 years or more with consistent attention to its hydraulic and mechanical systems.