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The Volvo EC220DL, part of Volvo's renowned series of crawler excavators, is known for its reliability, power, and versatility in various construction and digging applications. However, like all heavy machinery, it is not without its occasional issues. One of the common problems operators encounter is creeping track motors and a free-swinging slew—both of which can significantly affect the machine's performance and productivity.
In this article, we’ll explore these two issues in depth, the potential causes, troubleshooting steps, and the necessary maintenance tips for getting the Volvo EC220DL back in working order. Whether you're an experienced operator or a maintenance technician, understanding these common issues will help you keep the EC220DL in optimal condition.
Understanding the Issue: Creeping Track Motors
Creeping of the track motors is a frustrating issue where the tracks on the excavator move even when the controls are not engaged. This can occur slowly over time or suddenly, but it always results in a loss of control and precision.
Symptoms of Creeping Track Motors
A free-swinging slew refers to an issue with the machine's swing mechanism, where the upper structure of the excavator (the house) rotates without proper control. This results in the excavator arm moving unpredictably, making it difficult to maintain control when working in confined spaces or performing delicate tasks.
Symptoms of Free-Swinging Slew
As with all heavy equipment, regular preventive maintenance is the key to ensuring long-lasting performance and minimizing the likelihood of issues like creeping track motors and free-swinging slew.
1. Regular Hydraulic Fluid Checks:
Hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of many of the excavator’s systems. Regularly monitor the fluid for contaminants, and change the fluid at intervals recommended by the manufacturer to ensure proper function.
2. Scheduled Inspections of Track Motors and Slew Systems:
Routine inspections of the track motors and slew systems will help detect wear and tear early on. Look for signs of leaking seals, damaged hoses, or faulty sensors that could cause creeping or free-swinging issues.
3. Proper Calibration of Sensors:
Ensuring that all sensors, including those in the travel and swing control systems, are calibrated and functioning correctly is vital. This will prevent unnecessary malfunctions and allow for more precise operation.
4. Upkeep of the Brake and Control Systems:
Proper maintenance of both the track motor brakes and slew brake systems is crucial to prevent free-swinging and other similar issues. Regular checks for fluid levels and wear on components will help ensure the system is ready for work.
Conclusion
The Volvo EC220DL is a versatile and powerful machine that serves as a key player in various construction applications. However, like any heavy equipment, it is subject to wear and tear that can lead to issues such as creeping track motors and a free-swinging slew. By understanding the underlying causes of these problems and conducting regular troubleshooting and maintenance, operators can ensure the machine remains in peak operating condition.
A proactive approach to maintenance, coupled with an understanding of the hydraulic and mechanical systems, will allow you to address issues promptly and keep the Volvo EC220DL performing at its best, day in and day out.
In this article, we’ll explore these two issues in depth, the potential causes, troubleshooting steps, and the necessary maintenance tips for getting the Volvo EC220DL back in working order. Whether you're an experienced operator or a maintenance technician, understanding these common issues will help you keep the EC220DL in optimal condition.
Understanding the Issue: Creeping Track Motors
Creeping of the track motors is a frustrating issue where the tracks on the excavator move even when the controls are not engaged. This can occur slowly over time or suddenly, but it always results in a loss of control and precision.
Symptoms of Creeping Track Motors
- Tracks move without engaging the travel controls.
- Uneven movement or jerky track action, even when not operating.
- Gradual increase in the rate of creeping, making it harder to maintain a stable position.
- Hydraulic Valve Problems:
The track motors rely on hydraulic fluid for movement. If there's an issue with the hydraulic valves or if they are not functioning properly, it can cause pressure to be incorrectly applied to the track motors, resulting in creeping. These valves could be sticking, blocked, or experiencing leaks.
- Internal Seal Damage:
The seals within the track motor can wear over time. When they fail, hydraulic fluid can leak past them, causing the motor to engage even when it's not intended to.
- Contaminated Hydraulic Fluid:
Contaminants in the hydraulic fluid, such as dirt or water, can cause blockages or abnormal pressure, leading to a malfunction of the track motors. Over time, this leads to inefficiency in the track system.
- Faulty Travel Control Lever or Sensor:
The travel control lever, which communicates with the track motors, could be sending incorrect signals due to electrical issues or sensor malfunctions. This can cause the system to continuously engage the tracks.
- Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Ensure that the hydraulic fluid is at the correct level and is free from contaminants. If the fluid appears discolored or contaminated, a flush and replacement might be necessary.
- Inspect Hydraulic Valves and Lines: A detailed inspection of the hydraulic valves, lines, and connections should be conducted. Look for any leaks, cracks, or damage to the seals. If any parts are damaged or leaking, they should be replaced.
- Examine the Travel Control Lever and Sensors: The travel control system should be inspected for any faults in the lever or sensor connections. These can often be cleaned, recalibrated, or replaced to ensure proper communication between the lever and track motors.
A free-swinging slew refers to an issue with the machine's swing mechanism, where the upper structure of the excavator (the house) rotates without proper control. This results in the excavator arm moving unpredictably, making it difficult to maintain control when working in confined spaces or performing delicate tasks.
Symptoms of Free-Swinging Slew
- The house rotates without engaging the slew controls.
- The machine seems to be "out of control" when the swing is supposed to be stopped.
- Unintended or erratic movement of the excavator’s arm, especially when handling materials or positioning the machine.
- Slew Motor Problems:
The slew motor is responsible for rotating the upper structure of the excavator. A malfunction here—due to wear, internal damage, or hydraulic failure—can cause the slew to rotate even when the operator hasn’t engaged the swing controls.
- Hydraulic Pressure Issues:
The slew system is hydraulically powered, so an issue with hydraulic pressure can cause the slew mechanism to continue moving. Low pressure or erratic pressure in the swing circuit can lead to improper or free movement of the house.
- Slew Brake Failure:
The slew brake, which is designed to stop the movement of the house once the swing controls are released, could fail over time. A worn or damaged brake will result in the machine swinging freely without control.
- Control Valve Malfunction:
Similar to creeping track motors, the control valve for the swing system could be faulty, sending the wrong signals to the hydraulic system, thus allowing unintended swing motion.
- Check Hydraulic Pressure: Ensure the hydraulic system is maintaining proper pressure. Any fluctuations or signs of low pressure in the swing circuit should be addressed immediately. If pressure is low, inspect the hydraulic pump and valves.
- Inspect the Slew Motor: The slew motor should be checked for wear or damage. If it’s not functioning correctly, it may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
- Examine the Slew Brake: A malfunctioning slew brake is one of the most common causes of free-swinging. Inspect the brake components for wear and replace them if necessary.
- Check the Control Valves: Faulty control valves can lead to erratic movements. Ensure the valves are functioning correctly, and if any of them are malfunctioning, they should be recalibrated or replaced.
As with all heavy equipment, regular preventive maintenance is the key to ensuring long-lasting performance and minimizing the likelihood of issues like creeping track motors and free-swinging slew.
1. Regular Hydraulic Fluid Checks:
Hydraulic fluid is the lifeblood of many of the excavator’s systems. Regularly monitor the fluid for contaminants, and change the fluid at intervals recommended by the manufacturer to ensure proper function.
2. Scheduled Inspections of Track Motors and Slew Systems:
Routine inspections of the track motors and slew systems will help detect wear and tear early on. Look for signs of leaking seals, damaged hoses, or faulty sensors that could cause creeping or free-swinging issues.
3. Proper Calibration of Sensors:
Ensuring that all sensors, including those in the travel and swing control systems, are calibrated and functioning correctly is vital. This will prevent unnecessary malfunctions and allow for more precise operation.
4. Upkeep of the Brake and Control Systems:
Proper maintenance of both the track motor brakes and slew brake systems is crucial to prevent free-swinging and other similar issues. Regular checks for fluid levels and wear on components will help ensure the system is ready for work.
Conclusion
The Volvo EC220DL is a versatile and powerful machine that serves as a key player in various construction applications. However, like any heavy equipment, it is subject to wear and tear that can lead to issues such as creeping track motors and a free-swinging slew. By understanding the underlying causes of these problems and conducting regular troubleshooting and maintenance, operators can ensure the machine remains in peak operating condition.
A proactive approach to maintenance, coupled with an understanding of the hydraulic and mechanical systems, will allow you to address issues promptly and keep the Volvo EC220DL performing at its best, day in and day out.
