How to Load a Broken Track Hoe onto a Trailer

[MikePhua]

Loading a broken track hoe, or a tracked excavator, onto a flatbed trailer for transport is a specialized task that requires both skill and proper equipment to ensure safety and avoid further damage. Whether you're hauling the machine to a repair shop, relocating it to a new job site, or simply transporting it for maintenance, it’s essential to follow a detailed, step-by-step procedure to do so effectively.
This guide will provide a comprehensive understanding of how to load a broken track hoe, including the equipment needed, the step-by-step process, and important safety considerations. We will also explore some common scenarios in which a track hoe might be broken, as well as tips for handling such situations.
Understanding the Challenges of Loading a Broken Track Hoe
Tracked excavators, or "track hoes," are designed to have excellent mobility on rough terrain, but they can encounter issues such as damaged tracks, engine failure, or hydraulic malfunctions that leave them immobile. When this happens, you may need to transport the equipment with a broken or damaged track, requiring special techniques to ensure that it can be safely loaded and secured for transport.
The challenges that arise when loading a broken track hoe include:

• Uneven weight distribution: With a damaged track, the weight distribution on the machine is compromised, making it more difficult to move and balance.
  
• Immobility: If one or more tracks are damaged, the hoe may not be able to move under its own power, requiring the use of external equipment to load it.
  
• Hydraulic failure: If the hydraulic system is damaged, the boom or arm may not be able to be positioned to aid in loading.
  

Equipment and Tools Needed
Before you begin loading, it’s important to have the right equipment and tools on hand to assist in the process. The following are essential:

1. Flatbed Trailer: A flatbed trailer, preferably with a low deck, is ideal for loading large equipment like a track hoe. It should be capable of supporting the weight of the track hoe, typically in the range of 15 to 50 tons, depending on the size of the machine.
   
2. Heavy-Duty Winch or Recovery Vehicle: Since the track hoe may not be able to move under its own power, a winch or recovery vehicle will be needed to help pull the machine onto the trailer.
   
3. Track Blocks or Ramps: These will be placed under the unbroken track to help lift the damaged side and make loading easier.
   
4. Tie-Down Straps: Once the machine is on the trailer, it will need to be securely fastened using heavy-duty straps or chains to prevent any movement during transport.
   
5. Towing Hooks or Chains: These will be used to attach the winch to the track hoe to safely pull it onto the trailer.
   
6. Spotter: A person to assist in guiding the operation and ensuring safety throughout the process.
   

Step-by-Step Process for Loading a Broken Track Hoe
Loading a broken track hoe involves careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Inspect the Machine and Trailer
Before proceeding, inspect both the broken track hoe and the flatbed trailer for any damage or issues that may hinder the loading process. Ensure that the trailer is positioned on stable ground and that it can support the weight of the excavator.

• Check the damaged track: If only one track is damaged, determine the severity of the issue. Is the track completely off, or is it still partially intact?
  
• Examine the hydraulic system: If the hydraulic system is compromised, the boom or arm might not be functional, so manual loading assistance may be required.
  
• Trailer readiness: Ensure that the trailer has proper tie-down points and that it can handle the weight and dimensions of the excavator.
  

Step 2: Position the Trailer and Prepare the Loading Area
Position the trailer as close to the broken track hoe as possible. The ramp angle should be shallow enough to allow the machine to ascend onto the trailer without causing strain. If the machine is on soft ground, use gravel or a solid surface to avoid bogging down.

• Prepare the ramps: If using ramps, ensure they are securely attached to the trailer and can handle the weight of the excavator.
  
• Set the trailer brakes: Ensure the trailer is stationary by engaging the parking brakes.
  

Step 3: Use a Winch or Towing Vehicle to Pull the Machine
If the track hoe is immobile, a winch or recovery vehicle will be required to pull the machine onto the trailer. You can attach the winch cable to the front of the track hoe, preferably near the undercarriage for optimal pulling power.

• Anchor the winch: Secure the winch to a solid anchor point on the trailer, such as the frame or a strong mounting point.
  
• Start pulling: Engage the winch slowly, pulling the machine toward the trailer while monitoring the progress. Ensure the track hoe is moving straight, and keep an eye on both tracks to make sure they stay aligned. If one track is damaged, use track blocks under the undamaged track to help level the machine.
  

Step 4: Use Track Blocks or Ramps for Uneven Tracks
In the case of a broken track, the track that is still operational may need additional support to ensure the machine doesn’t tip or tilt during loading.

• Track blocks: Place track blocks under the working track to raise the damaged side slightly. This will help distribute the weight evenly, preventing the machine from tilting.
  
• Ramp adjustment: If using ramps, adjust them to ensure the machine can move with minimal friction, especially if the damaged track is dragging or catching on the surface.
  

Step 5: Secure the Track Hoe on the Trailer
Once the track hoe is loaded onto the trailer, it must be securely fastened. Use heavy-duty tie-down straps or chains to prevent any movement during transport. The machine should be strapped down at multiple points, such as the undercarriage, the body of the machine, and the boom or arm (if possible).

• Check stability: Ensure that the machine is stable and can’t shift during transport. Adjust the tie-downs if necessary.
  

Step 6: Final Inspection and Preparation for Transport
Before setting off, conduct a final inspection to make sure everything is secure and in place. Double-check the tie-downs, and ensure that the broken track is properly supported by the track blocks or ramps.

• Inspect the winch: Ensure that the winch or towing vehicle is properly secured and that the cable or chain is not at risk of coming loose during transport.
  

Common Scenarios Involving a Broken Track Hoe

• Track off the rollers: If the track comes off the rollers but the rest of the track remains intact, you may need a jack or hydraulic lift to raise the machine slightly to get the track back on.
  
• Severe track damage: If the track is completely damaged, the machine may need to be loaded via a loader or an excavator with lifting capacity.
  
• Hydraulic failure: A broken hydraulic system may require external tools or equipment to assist with positioning the boom or arm for loading.
  

Safety Tips for Loading a Broken Track Hoe

• Use proper PPE: Always wear safety gloves, steel-toed boots, and safety glasses when working with heavy machinery.
  
• Use a spotter: A spotter should be present to guide the machine and ensure that everything moves safely.
  
• Secure the area: Make sure the area around the machine is clear of obstacles and bystanders.
  

Conclusion
Loading a broken track hoe onto a trailer requires careful planning, the right tools, and an understanding of the challenges that can arise. By following the right procedures and ensuring all components are secure, you can successfully transport a damaged track hoe to the repair shop or job site. With proper safety precautions and the right equipment, this task can be completed efficiently and safely.