As an owner or operator of compact and heavy equipment, you play a crucial role in maintaining your final drive motor. Your efforts in this area improve your equipment's performance and help avoid costly repairs and downtime. 

We know how essential maintenance is to your equipment's performance and value, so here’s a guide to final drive motor maintenance. This Shop Talk Blog post focuses on industry best practices to keep your motors in top shape.

1. Regularly Check and Change Gear Oil

Gear oil plays a critical role in lubricating the internal components of the final drive motor, including gears and bearings. Over time, gear oil can become contaminated with debris and metal particles, which can cause excessive wear and damage to the components. Regularly checking and changing the gear oil is one of the most crucial steps in maintaining your final drive motor. Gear oil also ages, losing its effectiveness over time or when exposed to high temperatures. 

Typically, gear oil should be changed after the first 50 hours of use and then every 500 hours after that. Be sure to follow the specific guidelines provided by your equipment manufacturer for the correct type and interval for changing the gear oil.

2. Inspect and Maintain Case Drain Filters

The case drain filter captures contaminants before they can enter the motor and cause damage. A clogged or dirty case drain filter can lead to increased pressure within the motor, resulting in leaks or component failure. Regular inspection and replacement of the case drain filter are essential to prevent such issues. 

It's advised to replace this filter during the initial 50-hour service, followed by regular checks and replacements every 500 hours, aligning with gear oil changes. Keeping this filter in optimal condition ensures that the hydraulic fluid remains clean and reduces the risk of internal wear​.

3. Monitor for Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common issues affecting final drive motors and should never be ignored. Leaks can occur in various areas, including seals, hoses, and fittings, leading to a loss of hydraulic fluid, reduced performance, and even complete motor failure. And remember: if hydraulic fluid or gear oil can escape, then debris and other contaminants can make their way in.

Regularly inspect your equipment for signs of leaks, such as oil drips or wet spots around the final drive motor. If you detect a leak, address it promptly by tightening connections, replacing worn seals, or consulting a professional repair service. Catching leaks early prevents minor issues from escalating into major problems​.

4. Keep the Undercarriage Clean

Dirt, mud, and debris can accumulate on the undercarriage and around the final drive motor, especially in compact equipment like skid steers and mini excavators. This buildup can lead to increased wear on seals, contamination of the motor, and potential overheating -- not to mention potential issues for the undercarriage itself.

Regularly cleaning the undercarriage, including the areas around the final drive, helps to prevent abrasive materials from entering the motor and causing damage. Use high-pressure washers to remove dirt and debris, ensuring that the motor remains protected from external contaminants​.

5. Follow a Preventative Maintenance Schedule

Preventative maintenance (PM) is the best approach to extending the life of your final drive motor. PM involves adhering to a regular maintenance schedule that includes checking oil levels, inspecting filters, looking for leaks, and performing necessary adjustments or repairs. 

Establishing a maintenance routine based on your equipment’s usage and manufacturer recommendations helps identify potential issues early on and keeps your equipment running smoothly. Properly maintained motors perform better and have a longer lifespan, saving you money in the long run​. In addition, reliability is significantly increased which can enhance your reputation for being able to get jobs done in a timely manner.

Conclusion

Final drive motor maintenance is more than just a recommendation; it's necessary for anyone relying on compact and heavy equipment. By regularly checking gear oil, maintaining filters, inspecting for leaks, keeping the undercarriage clean, and following a preventative maintenance schedule, you can ensure longevity and reliability of your final drive motors. Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way in preventing costly repairs, problematic downtime, and stress.

For more detailed guidance and expert support in maintaining your final drive motors, consider reaching out to specialized services like those offered by Texas Final Drive. We provide expert repair and remanufacturing solutions tailored to your equipment needs and budget, giving you the confidence that your equipment is in good hands.