Although they are not a familiar name in the U.S. when it comes to motor graders, Mahindra has published an extensive list of maintenance items to inspect before operation.
From the ground
- Check the condition and cleanliness of steps and handholds since they are used for support when entering the machine. Broken steps may lead to injuries opening up the company to compensation claims.
- It's necessary to check the inflation of tires to ensure they can take the weight of the machine. If the tires are not properly inflated, it may lead to higher fuel consumption.
- Damage to lug nuts needs to be inspected thoroughly to avoid possibilities further damage to the wheels.
- Stem covers of brakes need to be check to ensure that the brakes are covered and protected.
- Tandem housings need to be checked for dirt, trash buildup, and leaks. They should be kept clean at all times.
- The articulation area needs to be checked for trash or dirt buildup since the buildup can lead to problems with the movement of machine parts, and eventually cause breakdowns or system failures.
- Air reservoir should always be checked for drain water and sediment. Buildup in the air reservoir leads to reduced efficiency of combustion in the engine, thus increasing fuel usage.
- Transmission leaks should be checked for regularly. Transmission leaks can lead to malfunctioning or underperformance. Any leaks found should be repaired immediately.
- Differential and tandem leaks under the machine need to be checked when doing an inspection. Leaks in differentials can again lead to power loss issues and breakdowns if they go unchecked.
- Hydraulic fluid levels, drainage, and hydraulic oil leaks should be kept in check. Low oil levels can affect the performance of the machine while drainage and leaks can cause power loss and malfunctions.
- Check if the covers are damaged and if guards are secure.
- Batteries and hold downs need to be checked for loose nuts, bolts ,and cleanliness. Loose nuts and bolts in the battery and dirt at connection points can cause the battery to underperform and discharge faster.
- Fuel tanks tend to get dirty quickly. They need to be kept clean to ensure that debris does not make it into the engine. Fuel levels, if below 30 percent, should be topped off. Any damage to the fuel tank must be reported and repaired immediately. Leaks, drain water, and sediment in the tank are signs of bad maintenance.
- Hydraulic cylinders, tubes, hose,s and fittings should be checked for any damage, leaks, and wear and tear from working in harsh conditions. Damage to hydraulic cylinders brings down performance and can result in major expenses.
- Circle drive leaks should be checked and repaired if any are found.
- Front wheel spindle bearings should be checked for leaks and should be reported and repaired immediately.
- All wheel drive motors should be checked extensively for damage and leaks. Damage to the wheel drive motor can bring the grader to a standstill if left unchecked.
- The blade linkage should be checked for damage and loose or missing bolts. Damage to the linkage can eventually lead to damage to the whole linkage system, and by extension, the blade.
- Blade and end bits need to be checked for excessive wear or damage. The blade receives the most stress during work, so it should be kept in the best state at all times and cleaned regularly to ensure rust doesn’t set in.
Engine compartment
- Engine oil fluid levels should be checked and topped up if required, with appropriate quality and quantity of the recommended oil.
- Engine coolant fluid levels should be checked properly and topped off as required. Low levels of coolant may lead the engine to run too hot and cause damage.
- Engine precleaner dirt buildup should be checked.
- The air filter restriction indicator should be monitored. A choked air filter can lead to poor performance and increased fuel consumption.
- Radiator fins should be checked for blockage and leaks.
- All hoses should regularly be checked for cracks, wear spots, and leaks. Weak spots can give in and cause major damage unless monitored regularly with inspections and maintenance.
- All belts should be checked for tightness, wear, and cracks. Loose belts cause increased loss of power during the transfer. Belts may break and cause damage if the wear isn't kept in check.
- Overall engine compartment should be kept clean. Dirt and grease buildup in the compartment can affect engine performance.
Outside the cab
- Lights should be checked for cleanliness and damage. Dirty lenses reduce visibility.
- Mirrors and windows should be checked for damage and cleanliness. Dirty windows and mirrors affect operator visibility and can led to accidents.
- Windshield wipers and washers should be monitored for wear and damage, and the fluid level should be checked and topped as required.
Inside the cab
- Seat adjustment and pedals should be checked. Pedals should be checked to ensure that the pedals are functioning properly and aren't jammed.
- Seatbelts and mountings should be checked for damage, wear, and adjustment.
- Fire extinguishers have to be present in the cabin and be charged. Any damage to fire extinguishers should be reported.
- Horn, backup alarm, and lights should be checked to ensure they are functioning properly. Failure of any of these things can lead to accidents on noisy sites.
- Controls and gauge lenses should be checked for damage, cleanliness, and proper operation. Malfunctioning gauges and controls can led to under or over utilization of the machines and eventually cause damage.
- Overall cab interior cleanliness should be maintained.
