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The Link-Belt 5800 and Its Role in Heavy Excavation
The Link-Belt 5800 hydraulic excavator was introduced in the late 1990s as part of the company’s push into high-production earthmoving and demolition. Built by LBX Company in Lexington, Kentucky, the 5800 was designed for mass excavation, deep trenching, and heavy-duty site prep. With an operating weight of approximately 99,800 lbs and a reach exceeding 40 feet, it competes with machines like the CAT 345 and Komatsu PC450 in the 45-ton class.
Link-Belt, originally known for cranes and forestry equipment, expanded its excavator line in the 1990s and early 2000s, gaining traction in North America and Asia. The 5800 became a flagship model for large contractors and mining operations, praised for its smooth hydraulics, robust undercarriage, and responsive travel system.
Hydrostatic Travel and Automatic Downshift Function
The 5800 features a three-speed independent hydrostatic travel system powered by compact axial piston motors. Each motor is coupled to a planetary reduction unit and track sprocket, allowing precise control and high tractive effort.
Travel speeds:
This feature is especially useful in forestry and quarry work, where machines often transition between flat haul roads and steep inclines. In one limestone pit in Pennsylvania, a 5800 was used to shuttle spoil uphill. Operators noted that the automatic downshift prevented track slippage and reduced fuel consumption by maintaining optimal torque.
Track Tension and Adjustment System
The 5800 uses a grease-filled hydraulic cylinder to maintain track tension. This system allows for automatic compensation of minor slack during operation, but manual adjustment is still required periodically.
Adjustment procedure:
Travel Motor Behavior and Slope Performance
Each travel motor includes:
When descending steep grades, the counterbalance valve prevents runaway speed, allowing controlled descent. On ascent, the automatic downshift ensures the motors operate within torque limits, reducing strain and overheating.
In one forestry job in Oregon, a 5800 was used to climb a 30° slope daily. The operator reported consistent performance and no overheating, even after 10-hour shifts. The machine’s ability to self-regulate speed and torque was critical in maintaining productivity.
Maintenance Tips and System Longevity
To maintain optimal travel and track performance:
Hydraulic system capacity: 119 gallons
Final drive oil per side: 1.8 gallons
A contractor in Texas added infrared sensors to monitor travel motor temperature. This helped detect early signs of seal failure and prevented costly rebuilds.
Conclusion
The Link-Belt 5800 excavator combines intelligent travel control with robust track adjustment systems to deliver consistent performance in demanding terrain. Its automatic downshift feature, hydrostatic drive, and tensioning system work together to reduce operator workload, improve safety, and extend component life. Whether climbing slopes or navigating soft ground, the 5800 adapts dynamically—making it a reliable partner in large-scale excavation.
The Link-Belt 5800 hydraulic excavator was introduced in the late 1990s as part of the company’s push into high-production earthmoving and demolition. Built by LBX Company in Lexington, Kentucky, the 5800 was designed for mass excavation, deep trenching, and heavy-duty site prep. With an operating weight of approximately 99,800 lbs and a reach exceeding 40 feet, it competes with machines like the CAT 345 and Komatsu PC450 in the 45-ton class.
Link-Belt, originally known for cranes and forestry equipment, expanded its excavator line in the 1990s and early 2000s, gaining traction in North America and Asia. The 5800 became a flagship model for large contractors and mining operations, praised for its smooth hydraulics, robust undercarriage, and responsive travel system.
Hydrostatic Travel and Automatic Downshift Function
The 5800 features a three-speed independent hydrostatic travel system powered by compact axial piston motors. Each motor is coupled to a planetary reduction unit and track sprocket, allowing precise control and high tractive effort.
Travel speeds:
- Low: 1.4 mph (2.3 km/h)
- Mid: 1.9 mph (3.1 km/h)
- High: 3.1 mph (5.0 km/h)
This feature is especially useful in forestry and quarry work, where machines often transition between flat haul roads and steep inclines. In one limestone pit in Pennsylvania, a 5800 was used to shuttle spoil uphill. Operators noted that the automatic downshift prevented track slippage and reduced fuel consumption by maintaining optimal torque.
Track Tension and Adjustment System
The 5800 uses a grease-filled hydraulic cylinder to maintain track tension. This system allows for automatic compensation of minor slack during operation, but manual adjustment is still required periodically.
Adjustment procedure:
- Lift the track off the ground using the boom and stick
- Measure sag between the carrier roller and track link
- Ideal sag: ~1.5 inches (38 mm)
- Add grease via tension fitting to increase pressure
- Release grease to reduce tension if over-tightened
- Excessive sag or track derailment
- High wear on sprockets and rollers
- Increased fuel consumption due to drag
- Audible clunking or vibration during travel
Travel Motor Behavior and Slope Performance
Each travel motor includes:
- Counterbalance valve to prevent overspeeding downhill
- Dual-stage relief valves for smooth starts and stops
- Spring-applied, hydraulically released disc parking brakes
When descending steep grades, the counterbalance valve prevents runaway speed, allowing controlled descent. On ascent, the automatic downshift ensures the motors operate within torque limits, reducing strain and overheating.
In one forestry job in Oregon, a 5800 was used to climb a 30° slope daily. The operator reported consistent performance and no overheating, even after 10-hour shifts. The machine’s ability to self-regulate speed and torque was critical in maintaining productivity.
Maintenance Tips and System Longevity
To maintain optimal travel and track performance:
- Inspect track tension weekly
- Clean sprockets and rollers daily in muddy conditions
- Check travel motor case drain filters every 500 hours
- Monitor hydraulic fluid temperature and level
- Replace grease seals annually or when leaking
Hydraulic system capacity: 119 gallons
Final drive oil per side: 1.8 gallons
A contractor in Texas added infrared sensors to monitor travel motor temperature. This helped detect early signs of seal failure and prevented costly rebuilds.
Conclusion
The Link-Belt 5800 excavator combines intelligent travel control with robust track adjustment systems to deliver consistent performance in demanding terrain. Its automatic downshift feature, hydrostatic drive, and tensioning system work together to reduce operator workload, improve safety, and extend component life. Whether climbing slopes or navigating soft ground, the 5800 adapts dynamically—making it a reliable partner in large-scale excavation.
