Learn To Replace Crane Track shoes In Three Minutes
Crawler cranes are commonly used in construction, mining, and heavy engineering. Track shoes, as key components of the crawler system, endure heavy loads and wear over time, requiring regular crane track shoe replacement to ensure safe operation. This article outlines the steps and precautions for replacing crawler crane track shoes, enabling construction teams to efficiently complete maintenance tasks.
The Necessity of Track Shoe Replacement
Track shoes may develop the following problems after prolonged use:
Severe wear: Reduces track grip, affecting lifting stability.
Cracks or breaks: May cause the track to fall off, leading to equipment failure or even accidents.
Loose or broken bolts: Impact the overall structural strength of the crawler track.
Regularly inspecting and replacing damaged track shoes can extend the service life of the crawler crane and reduce maintenance costs.
Crawler Crane Track Shoe Replacement Steps
Preparation
Tools: Hydraulic wrench, crane (for auxiliary lifting), bolt removal tool, and new track shoes (matching model). Safety Measures: Shut down the machine and disconnect the power supply. Post warning signs and ensure that no unauthorized personnel are present in the work area.
Track Support: Use a jack or blocks to support the track, preventing the equipment from tilting during lifting.
Removing the Old Track Shoes
Loosen the track tensioning device (such as a hydraulic cylinder) to reduce track tension.
Removing the Fixing Bolts: Use a torque wrench to sequentially loosen the track shoe connecting bolts (usually high-strength bolts).
Removing the Old Track Shoes: Carefully remove worn or damaged track shoes and inspect the pins and bushings to see if they need replacement.
Installing the New Track Shoes
Cleaning the Installation Location: Ensure the track pins and connection areas are free of oil, dirt, or debris.
Installing the New Track Shoes: Align the pin holes, insert the new track shoe, and initially tighten the bolts.
Tightening the Bolts: Tighten in increments to the manufacturer’s recommended torque (usually 200-300 N·m) to avoid uneven tension. Adjust Track Tension: Re-tension the crawler tracks to ensure proper tension (usually 2-3 fingers are appropriate).
Testing and Inspection
Trial Run: Move the crawler crane at a low speed to check if the new track shoes are running smoothly.
Bolt Check: After the operation, check the bolts again for looseness and tighten them again if necessary.
Precautions for Crane Track Shoe Replacement
1. Use original or matching models: Crawler cranes from different brands (such as XCMG, Sany, and Liebherr) have different track shoe specifications and must be strictly matched.
2. Avoid violent disassembly: Prevent damage to the pins or track links.
3. Regular Lubrication: Lubricate the track pins after replacement to reduce wear.
4. Professional Operation: It is recommended that experienced crane maintenance technicians perform this operation to avoid safety hazards.
