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The Champion 720A is a motor grader built by Champion Road Machinery (now part of Volvo Construction Equipment), which has been a key player in the grading industry for decades. Known for its robust performance and versatility, the 720A is designed to meet the demands of tough grading tasks, road construction, and maintenance projects. This article will explore the design, features, common issues, and maintenance tips associated with the Champion 720A motor grader.
Champion 720A Grader: A Historical Perspective
Champion Road Machinery has a long history dating back to 1908 when it introduced the first motor grader. Since then, Champion has built a reputation for producing durable, high-quality graders. The Champion 720A, produced in the 1980s and early 1990s, became popular for its advanced features, ease of operation, and reliable performance in various industries, including road construction, landscaping, and mining.
In 1997, Champion was acquired by Volvo Construction Equipment, and while the Champion brand name is no longer in widespread use, the legacy of its machinery lives on under the Volvo brand. The 720A, like other Champion graders, was engineered to perform in challenging conditions, with an emphasis on operator comfort and efficiency.
Key Features of the Champion 720A Grader
The Champion 720A is designed for heavy-duty applications, boasting several key features that make it suitable for diverse tasks. Let’s break down its specifications and functionalities.
Engine and Power
The 720A is equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine that provides substantial horsepower for various grading applications. The engine is known for its durability and fuel efficiency, which helps operators maximize productivity while minimizing operational costs.
Blade and Grading Capabilities
The motor grader's primary function is to level and smooth the ground, whether for road construction, land development, or maintenance. The Champion 720A is equipped with a fully adjustable, heavy-duty front blade that can be configured for various tasks, from fine grading to heavy cutting and pushing. The blade's angle, tilt, and lift are easily adjusted by the operator using hydraulic controls, allowing for precision grading.
Hydraulic System
The hydraulic system is one of the essential components of the Champion 720A, providing the necessary force to control the blade and other attachments. The system offers precision control for adjusting the blade position, tilt, and side shift.
Operator Comfort
The Champion 720A is designed with the operator in mind. The cab is spacious, featuring ergonomic controls, and visibility is optimized for easy operation. The machine also features:
Although the Champion 720A is built for durability, like any piece of heavy machinery, it can experience wear and tear over time. Here are some common issues reported by users:
Hydraulic Problems
The hydraulic system, while robust, is susceptible to issues if the system is not regularly maintained. Problems like leaking hydraulic lines, clogged filters, or worn-out cylinders can lead to inefficient blade movement or complete hydraulic failure.
The Caterpillar 3208 engine is known for its reliability, but like all engines, it can develop problems such as fuel injection issues, cooling system failures, or air filter blockages, particularly if it’s not maintained correctly.
Over time, the powershift transmission can begin to exhibit wear, leading to poor gear shifting or slipping. This is especially common in high-use machines or when the grader is operated in heavy-duty conditions.
Older models of the Champion 720A may experience electrical issues such as faulty sensors, wiring problems, or issues with the battery or alternator. These issues can lead to difficulty starting the machine or malfunctioning of electrical components.
To keep your Champion 720A in optimal working condition, follow these general maintenance tips:
The Champion 720A grader has stood the test of time as a reliable and efficient piece of machinery for road construction and maintenance tasks. With its powerful engine, durable hydraulic system, and comfortable operator cab, the 720A continues to be a preferred choice for heavy-duty grading projects.
Regular maintenance, proper care, and timely repairs are crucial for keeping the grader in optimal working condition. By addressing common issues such as hydraulic leaks, engine performance, and transmission wear early, operators can ensure that their Champion 720A remains a productive and reliable workhorse for years to come.
Champion 720A Grader: A Historical Perspective
Champion Road Machinery has a long history dating back to 1908 when it introduced the first motor grader. Since then, Champion has built a reputation for producing durable, high-quality graders. The Champion 720A, produced in the 1980s and early 1990s, became popular for its advanced features, ease of operation, and reliable performance in various industries, including road construction, landscaping, and mining.
In 1997, Champion was acquired by Volvo Construction Equipment, and while the Champion brand name is no longer in widespread use, the legacy of its machinery lives on under the Volvo brand. The 720A, like other Champion graders, was engineered to perform in challenging conditions, with an emphasis on operator comfort and efficiency.
Key Features of the Champion 720A Grader
The Champion 720A is designed for heavy-duty applications, boasting several key features that make it suitable for diverse tasks. Let’s break down its specifications and functionalities.
Engine and Power
The 720A is equipped with a 6-cylinder diesel engine that provides substantial horsepower for various grading applications. The engine is known for its durability and fuel efficiency, which helps operators maximize productivity while minimizing operational costs.
- Engine Model: Caterpillar 3208 (or similar)
- Power Output: Around 150 horsepower
- Transmission: Powershift transmission for smooth gear changes and reliable performance.
Blade and Grading Capabilities
The motor grader's primary function is to level and smooth the ground, whether for road construction, land development, or maintenance. The Champion 720A is equipped with a fully adjustable, heavy-duty front blade that can be configured for various tasks, from fine grading to heavy cutting and pushing. The blade's angle, tilt, and lift are easily adjusted by the operator using hydraulic controls, allowing for precision grading.
- Blade Width: Typically 12 to 14 feet
- Blade Lift: Hydraulic lift for easy adjustment of cutting depth
- Side Shift: Enables the operator to shift the blade side to side to improve grading accuracy and efficiency.
Hydraulic System
The hydraulic system is one of the essential components of the Champion 720A, providing the necessary force to control the blade and other attachments. The system offers precision control for adjusting the blade position, tilt, and side shift.
- Hydraulic Pump: The 720A is typically equipped with a high-flow hydraulic pump to ensure smooth operation and precise control.
- Hydraulic Cylinders: Used for controlling the blade, lift arms, and scarifier attachment.
Operator Comfort
The Champion 720A is designed with the operator in mind. The cab is spacious, featuring ergonomic controls, and visibility is optimized for easy operation. The machine also features:
- Air-conditioned cab to improve comfort during long working hours.
- Joystick controls for blade manipulation, making the grading process smoother and reducing operator fatigue.
- Adjustable seats to accommodate various operator preferences.
Although the Champion 720A is built for durability, like any piece of heavy machinery, it can experience wear and tear over time. Here are some common issues reported by users:
Hydraulic Problems
The hydraulic system, while robust, is susceptible to issues if the system is not regularly maintained. Problems like leaking hydraulic lines, clogged filters, or worn-out cylinders can lead to inefficient blade movement or complete hydraulic failure.
- Solution: Regular inspection of hydraulic hoses, filters, and oil levels is essential. Replacing hydraulic fluids and ensuring the system is free of debris can prevent many common hydraulic issues.
The Caterpillar 3208 engine is known for its reliability, but like all engines, it can develop problems such as fuel injection issues, cooling system failures, or air filter blockages, particularly if it’s not maintained correctly.
- Solution: Regular engine servicing, such as changing air and fuel filters, checking the cooling system for leaks, and ensuring proper fuel quality, can extend engine life and maintain performance.
Over time, the powershift transmission can begin to exhibit wear, leading to poor gear shifting or slipping. This is especially common in high-use machines or when the grader is operated in heavy-duty conditions.
- Solution: Routine transmission fluid checks and changes are essential. If shifting issues arise, it may be necessary to service the transmission or replace components like the clutch or solenoids.
Older models of the Champion 720A may experience electrical issues such as faulty sensors, wiring problems, or issues with the battery or alternator. These issues can lead to difficulty starting the machine or malfunctioning of electrical components.
- Solution: A thorough inspection of the electrical system and regular maintenance of the battery, alternator, and wiring can help mitigate these problems.
To keep your Champion 720A in optimal working condition, follow these general maintenance tips:
- Engine Oil and Filters: Change the engine oil and replace filters at recommended intervals to ensure proper lubrication and performance.
- Hydraulic System Maintenance: Keep the hydraulic fluid clean and at the proper level, and regularly replace filters to avoid clogging.
- Transmission Care: Perform regular checks on transmission fluid levels and replace the fluid as recommended.
- Regular Inspections: Inspect all parts, including the blade, tires, and electrical system, to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Tire Maintenance: Keep the tires properly inflated and replace them when they show signs of excessive wear.
The Champion 720A grader has stood the test of time as a reliable and efficient piece of machinery for road construction and maintenance tasks. With its powerful engine, durable hydraulic system, and comfortable operator cab, the 720A continues to be a preferred choice for heavy-duty grading projects.
Regular maintenance, proper care, and timely repairs are crucial for keeping the grader in optimal working condition. By addressing common issues such as hydraulic leaks, engine performance, and transmission wear early, operators can ensure that their Champion 720A remains a productive and reliable workhorse for years to come.
