Akerman H14 BLC Excavator Troubleshooting and Legacy

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Akerman and the H-Series
Akerman’s journey began in Sweden in the early 20th century, with AB Åkermans Gjuteri & Mekaniska Verkstad pioneering mechanical and hydraulic excavators. By 1962, Akerman had introduced its first hydraulic model, and by the 1980s, the H-series was well established. The H14 BLC, produced between 1987 and 1991, represented the culmination of Akerman’s engineering philosophy: robust steelwork, simplified hydraulics, and operator-centric design. After Volvo acquired Akerman, the H-series became part of Volvo CE’s legacy, with thousands of units sold across Europe and North America.
Core Specifications and Design Features
The Akerman H14 BLC is a crawler excavator weighing approximately 31 metric tons. It was designed for heavy-duty excavation, dredging, and infrastructure work. Key specifications include:

• Engine: Volvo diesel, known for torque and reliability
  
• Operating weight: Around 31,000 kg
  
• Bucket capacity: 1.5 to 2.2 cubic meters
  
• Max reach: Over 10 meters horizontally
  
• Undercarriage: Wide track base for stability
  
• Boom: Single-cylinder design for simplified maintenance
  

Terminology Annotation

• Crawler Excavator: A tracked excavator designed for rough terrain and stability during digging operations.
  
• Single Boom Cylinder: A configuration using one hydraulic cylinder to lift the boom, reducing complexity but requiring a larger bore and stroke.
  
• Swing Transmission: The gear system that allows the upper structure of the excavator to rotate.
  

Uncommon Engineering Choices and Their Implications
One of the most distinctive features of the H14 BLC is its single boom cylinder. While most excavators use dual cylinders for balanced lifting, Akerman opted for a massive single unit. This design reduced hydraulic plumbing and maintenance points but required precise engineering to avoid asymmetrical stress. Operators have noted that despite its unconventional setup, the boom performs reliably under load, even during trenching in clay-heavy soils.
In Sweden, a municipal crew used an H14 BLC for canal dredging and praised its stability and reach. The machine’s long boom allowed them to work from the bank without repositioning, saving time and fuel.
Track Tensioning and Custom Solutions
Track tensioning on the H14 BLC requires a specialized adapter for the grease zerk fitting. Without it, operators cannot properly pressurize the track adjuster. Some users have improvised by drilling and installing standard grease fittings, while others sourced button-head adapters online. These modifications, though unofficial, have proven effective in maintaining track integrity.
Terminology Annotation

• Grease Zerk: A fitting used to inject lubricant under pressure into mechanical systems.
  
• Track Adjuster: A hydraulic or spring-loaded mechanism that maintains proper track tension to prevent derailment.
  

Swing Gearbox and Lubrication Challenges
The swing gearbox, responsible for rotating the upper structure, includes a small oil cup often overlooked during maintenance. This cup feeds lubricant into the slew motor gearbox, and when empty, can lead to premature wear. Recommended lubricant is EP90 gear oil, and the cup should be checked monthly. A contractor in Germany reported gearbox failure due to neglecting this simple component, resulting in a €4,000 repair.
Hydraulic System and Dipstick Confusion
Behind the cab, a dipstick leads into the swing compartment. This is not for engine oil but for hydraulic fluid specific to the swing transmission. Filling is done through the dipstick port, and the correct fluid type is typically ISO VG 46 hydraulic oil. Misidentifying this reservoir can lead to cross-contamination and system malfunction.
Parts Availability and Documentation Gaps
Finding manuals and parts diagrams for the H14 BLC can be challenging. Unlike modern Volvo machines with digital support, Akerman models rely on legacy documentation. Some owners have compiled their own service guides based on experience and shared knowledge. In 2023, a restoration group in Finland digitized several Akerman manuals and made them available to collectors and operators, preserving the brand’s heritage.
Terminology Annotation

• ISO VG 46: A viscosity grade for hydraulic oil, suitable for moderate temperatures and pressures.
  
• Slew Motor: A hydraulic motor that powers the rotation of the excavator’s upper structure.
  

Operational Tips and Long-Term Maintenance
To keep an H14 BLC in peak condition, consider the following:

• Inspect boom cylinder seals annually for wear
  
• Check track tension monthly and grease as needed
  
• Monitor swing gearbox oil level and refill with EP90
  
• Replace hydraulic filters every 500 hours
  
• Use genuine Volvo parts when available, or high-quality aftermarket alternatives
  

Conclusion
The Akerman H14 BLC is a testament to Swedish engineering—unorthodox in design but remarkably effective in the field. Its single boom cylinder, robust undercarriage, and powerful swing system make it ideal for deep excavation and heavy lifting. While parts and documentation may be scarce, the machine’s mechanical simplicity allows for creative solutions and long-term reliability. Whether dredging rivers or digging foundations, the H14 BLC remains a respected tool in the hands of skilled operators.