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Overview
Moving an excavator safely and efficiently is a crucial skill for operators and transport personnel. Excavators are heavy, complex machines that require careful handling during loading, unloading, and short-distance moving at sites.
Loading and Trailering
Moving excavators involves a combination of clean, well-prepared loading environments, precise operator control, and thoughtful securement to prevent accidents and equipment damage. Understanding machine dynamics—like center of gravity and tipping points—paired with slow, deliberate movements also protects critical components like final drives. Exercising these best practices ensures safe, efficient excavator handling on transport and job sites alike.
Moving an excavator safely and efficiently is a crucial skill for operators and transport personnel. Excavators are heavy, complex machines that require careful handling during loading, unloading, and short-distance moving at sites.
Loading and Trailering
- Begin by cleaning the trailer ramp and bed from dirt, oil, and moisture to ensure maximum traction for the excavator. Dirt and wet surfaces increase the risk of slipping during loading.
- Select a level, compact ground area for ramp placement and trailer setup, reducing risks of tipping or sinking under heavy loads.
- Align the excavator carefully with the ramp and trailer centerline, considering the machine’s width and possible overhangs.
- Use low engine RPM and slow, controlled movements to drive the excavator up the ramp, maintaining forward momentum without sudden acceleration or braking.
- Monitor the tipping point as the excavator transitions from angled on the ramp to level on the trailer; adjust positioning to maintain balance and even weight distribution on trailer axles.
- Tuck the boom down low but avoid placing straps over hydraulic lines or components sensitive to pressure.
- Attach chains or straps to designated lifting or lashing points on the excavator frame for firm but not overly tight securement.
- Use padding between straps and metal to prevent scratching or damage.
- Lower any hydraulic attachments and lock them in place before transport.
- Double-check all securements for tightness and compliance with transport regulations.
- When moving the machine short distances onsite, always keep the boom off the ground with sufficient clearance to avoid snagging or damage.
- Pay attention to the excavator’s center of gravity, especially when maneuvering on slopes or uneven terrain.
- Use smooth, gradual joystick and pedal movements to prevent sudden jerks or tipping.
- Learning directional controls relative to cab orientation is critical—forward-stick movement may vary when swinging the cab.
- Jump turns can help preserve final drives and avoid powering tracks against resistance in tight turns or soft ground.
- Use boards, steel plates, or rollers to distribute weight and prevent damage to soft or unstable surfaces like thresholds or freight elevators.
- Approach transition surfaces at an angle to reduce impact loads and prevent catching wheels or tracks.
- Communicate clearly with spotters and crew to coordinate movements and avoid hazards.
- Boom: The large arm extending from the excavator used for digging or lifting.
- Tipping Point: The moment during loading/unloading when the machine’s balance shifts and requires careful control.
- Final Drives: Gear components transferring power to the tracks; sensitive to high torque and abrupt turns.
- Jump Turn: A controlled maneuver where the excavator momentarily lifts tracks off the ground while turning to reduce strain.
- Center of Gravity: The point where the weight of the machine is balanced, critical for stability.
Moving excavators involves a combination of clean, well-prepared loading environments, precise operator control, and thoughtful securement to prevent accidents and equipment damage. Understanding machine dynamics—like center of gravity and tipping points—paired with slow, deliberate movements also protects critical components like final drives. Exercising these best practices ensures safe, efficient excavator handling on transport and job sites alike.
