Your excavator's slewing drive is a major investment. With proper care and routine maintenance, you can significantly extend its service life, ensure optimal performance, and avoid unexpected, costly failures. A proactive approach is always cheaper than a reactive repair.

Follow this essential maintenance checklist to keep your slewing drive in top condition.

Daily/Pre-Operation Checks

• Visual Inspection: Look for any signs of oil leaks around the slewing motor, gearbox, and hydraulic hoses.

• Listen for Noises: Before beginning work, listen for any unusual sounds during a test swing without load.

• Check Swing Performance: Ensure the rotation is smooth and responsive in both directions.

Periodic Maintenance (Follow OEM Manual Intervals)

1. Lubrication is CRITICAL:

   • Slewing Bearing: Most large slewing bearings have grease fittings (zerks). Use the exact type of extreme-pressure (EP) grease specified by the manufacturer. Purge old grease until fresh grease appears at the seal, ensuring all raceways are protected. This prevents corrosion and wear.

   • Gearbox Oil: Regularly check the oil level in the reduction gearbox. Change the oil at the intervals specified in your manual. Contaminated or old oil loses its lubricating properties and can cause rapid wear.

2. Hydraulic System Health:

   • The slewing motor relies on clean hydraulic fluid. Maintain the correct hydraulic oil level and change filters regularly. Contaminated oil is a leading cause of hydraulic motor failure.

3. Bolt Inspection:

   • Periodically check the tightness of the slewing bearing mounting bolts. These bolts can loosen over time due to the immense vibrational loads and shock impacts experienced during operation.

4. Keep it Clean:

   • Before lubricating, clean around grease fittings to prevent dirt and debris from being forced into the bearing. A clean machine makes it easier to spot new leaks or damage.

Adhering to a disciplined maintenance schedule is the most effective way to maximize the return on your equipment and keep your excavator swinging smoothly for years to come.