Alamo Swingtrim - Manual (Page 117)

MAINTENANCE
SWINGTRIM 03/09 Maintenance Section 5-7
© 2009 Alamo Group Inc.
MAINTENANCE
Oil Supply
Check daily the oil level in the reservoir.
Change the oil after the first 250 hours of use, then every 500 hours or every 12 months thereafter. Although
the oil does not wear out, it does eventually break down through contamination, oxidation and condensation.
Continual operation of the machine beyond its rated capacity to almost the stall point of the rotor can cause
overheating which produces insoluble gums, sludge, varnish and acids. Overheated oil thins to give a sluggish
performance and causes earlier failure of seals and “O” rings. Burnt and scorched oil odors and the oil
darkening and thickening are all signs of oxidation and indicate the oil should be changed.
Moisture which results from condensation can become entrapped in the oil and cannot be removed by filtration
so that contamination is a progressive factor.
Contamination can be reduced by
1.
Carrying all hydraulic servicing in a clean, dust-free surroundings
2. Cleaning off around the reservoir cap before removal, and keeping that area clean.
3. Using clean containers when replenishing the system.
4. Regular servicing of the filtration system.
Filtration Maintenance
The machine is protected by a low pressure 10 micron full flow return line filter.
Return Line Filter - The element should be changed after the first 50 hours and thereafter at 400 hour
intervals or every 12 months. It is important to note hours worked as if the filter becomes blocked, an internal
bypass within the canister will operate and no symptoms of filter malfunction will occur to jog your memory.
Hydraulic Pumps (If Fitted)
The APH 415/A3 complete with its drive coupler is used with all diggers which have independent hydraulics
and which are used on tractors with high speed PTO shafts. The pump is counterclockwise in rotation.
No routine maintenance is necessary other than a periodical check for tightness of the mounting bolts and a
visual check for oil leakage especially around the pump supply and pressure unions. Where two hose clips are
used on the pump supply hose, their worm-drive barrels should be placed opposite each other at 180 degrees.
These clips should be checked frequently during the first few hours of work to avoid possibility of drawing in air.
Cylinder Rod Maintenance
It is important to visually inspect the hydraulic cylinder rods daily before use. It is highly recommended that
while the machine is stored or getting very little use that a protectant is applied to the hydraulic cylinder rods to
prevent degradation. If the machine receives more frequent use, be sure to fully cycle each cylinder function so
that the cylinder rod is coated by the systems hydraulic fluid. Depending on your operating environment it may
be necessary, under normal operating conditions, to apply a protective lubricant to the cylinder rods for
protection against rust and pitting. Hydraulic fluid may provide a suitable amount of protection, but remember
any protectant can attract dust and debris so attention must be given to the cylinder rods daily. Also remember
that any other protectant must be compatible with hydraulic fluid. Alamo Industrial is not responsible for rust or
pitting of the cylinder rod due to weather exposure or impacts from normal operation or mounting. If hydraulic
cylinders and or the cylinder rods are damaged as a result of the rods rusting or pitting, the hydraulic cylinders
and rods will not be covered under warranty by Alamo Industrial.