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John Deere provides advice for the fluid maintenance strategies of logging equipment.
The information appears in the Summer 2011 issue of “The Forestry Review”. Using the correct fluid is discussed, with emphasis on following manufacturer guidelines and being specific to the requirements of individual machines. The dangers of mixing fluids, for example by topping up machines with a different fluid, are described.
When replacing filters, it is important to consider each filters micron rating. This measures the minimum size of particles the filter can remove from the fluid. The beta ratio also needs to be noted, as this indicates filtering efficiency. Filters often need to be replaced more often than the fluid it is filtering. Again, manufacturer’s specifications should be followed.
Condition-based maintenance (CBM) is becoming the norm for deciding when fluids should be changed. A small sample of the various fluids is collected at regular intervals, and is sent to an independent lab for analysis. This indicates whether contaminants are present in the fluid, and predicts potential or impending component failure. Fluid changes can take place when they are required, as opposed to at predetermined intervals.
Please access the Forestry Review for more information. Source: http://www.deere.com/en_US/cfd/forestry/deere_forestry/info_center/publications/forestry_review_summer_11.html