Assessing the Condition of Your Mini Digger through a Thorough Visual Inspection

25 June 2021

Mini diggers can carry out different functions according to the needs of a specific project site. Some of their notable functions include excavation of the ground, transfer of materials, demolishing structures, and ploughing of site elements. These functions have been made possible due to the existence of mini digger attachments as well as the hydraulics of these machines.

However, these small and useful machines can only conduct excellent work if they are still in great condition. To prevent them from stopping in the middle of operations, project managers should ensure that they are evaluated first visually.

Visual inspection is necessary to assess the overall condition of the mini diggers. The following are some of the key steps of visual inspection that you should know about.

Look for Any Issues on the Boom

A mini digger may have been used previously for other applications. But whether you are buying a used mini digger or hiring it, you and others should still look for any signs of visual issues or damages. The first few mini digger components that you should check is the boom and the body. Ensure that there are no bends, cracks, or dents. If these components have the stated issues, then the mini digger must be repaired first. You must likewise check for any repair welds at crucial stress points. Additionally, you should check if some mini digger issues or damages are just covered by a fresh paint job.

Evaluate the Connection Points

The connection points around the boom, bucket, and stick must be assessed carefully to avoid generating some problems during the operations. Typically, these points must be intact and solid to ensure that they can carry out their works effectively. If they are, however, moving, then some of their pins and bushings must be tightened. Moving connection points may also signify that they need some lubrication as ignoring this can affect the overall accuracy of the mini digger movement. Cracks around the connection points must also be identified as soon as possible so they can be addressed prior to the mini digger operations.

Assess the Condition of the Bucket

Scalloping is the existence of a half-moon shape defect between the teeth on the mini digger bucket. If your mini digger’s bucket has some sort of scalloping, then it means that it cannot work effectively. Aside from scalloping, you must assess if the bucket has already bent. A bent bucket means that it was used for projects that are incompatible with its rated capacity.

Check the Tracks and Undercarriage

Two other mini digger components that you must check are tracks and undercarriage. Tracks that are already beyond 50% wear out must be replaced right away. In some cases, opting for other mini diggers would be a better choice rather than replacing the tracks as they can be expensive. An undercarriage that has rust and dents, on the other hand, should also be repaired and fixed since it typically dictates the smoothness of the mini digger operation.

To find out more about mini diggers, you can contact us at Melbourne Mini Diggers.