An excavator is one of the most valuable pieces of equipment on any construction, demolition, quarrying or agricultural site. Whether you own a compact machine like the SANY SY20C or a larger model such as the SY235LC, regular maintenance is essential to keep your excavator operating safely, efficiently and reliably.

Preventative maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your machine but also helps avoid costly repairs, improves fuel efficiency and reduces unexpected downtime. A well-maintained excavator retains more of its resale value and gives operators greater confidence when tackling demanding jobs.

At Banner Equipment, we understand how important it is to keep your machinery working at its best. Here’s our complete guide to excavator maintenance.

Excavators operate in some of the toughest environments imaginable. Dust, mud, rain, vibration and heavy loads all place significant stress on mechanical and hydraulic components.

Without regular inspections and servicing, small issues can quickly develop into major failures. Something as simple as a leaking hydraulic hose or dirty air filter can eventually lead to expensive repairs and lost productivity.

Routine maintenance provides several important benefits, including:

• Reduced breakdowns
• Lower operating costs
• Improved fuel economy
• Longer component life
• Better operator safety
• Higher resale value
• Increased machine reliability

A preventative maintenance programme is always far less expensive than emergency repairs.

Spotting these issues early can prevent serious mechanical failures later in the day.

Many experienced operators can identify developing problems simply by noticing something that looks, sounds or feels different from normal.

Check Fluid Levels Every Day

Excavators rely on several different fluids to operate efficiently.

These should all be checked before the machine begins work.

Key fluids include:

• Engine oil
• Hydraulic oil
• Coolant
• Fuel
• DEF (where applicable)
• Windscreen washer fluid

Using the correct manufacturer-approved oils and fluids is essential. Mixing incorrect oils can reduce performance and increase wear.

Never ignore low hydraulic oil levels, as hydraulic systems power almost every excavator function.

Keep Your Excavator Clean

Although excavators are designed for dirty environments, excessive mud and debris can hide leaks and accelerate wear.

Cleaning your machine regularly helps operators spot damage earlier while preventing dirt from contaminating moving components.

Pay particular attention to:

• Radiators
• Cooling packs
• Hydraulic coolers
• Engine bay
• Undercarriage
• Steps and handrails
• Cab floor

Keeping the radiator free from dirt is especially important during warmer months, helping prevent overheating.

Inspect the Undercarriage

The undercarriage is one of the most expensive areas of an excavator to repair.

Industry estimates suggest it can account for around half of the machine’s lifetime maintenance costs.

Inspect:

• Track tension
• Rollers
• Idlers
• Sprockets
• Track shoes
• Rubber tracks (on compact excavators)

Tracks that are too tight wear faster, while tracks that are too loose increase the chance of derailment.

Regular cleaning also removes stones and compacted mud that accelerate wear.

Grease All Pivot Points

Every excavator contains numerous grease points.

Pins, bushes and joints experience constant movement and heavy loads.

Without proper lubrication they wear rapidly.

Daily greasing should include:

• Bucket linkage
• Boom pins
• Arm pins
• Slew bearing (where specified)
• Quick hitch
• Attachment pivots

Always grease according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.

Fresh grease pushes out dirt and moisture, significantly extending component life.

Maintain the Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system is effectively the heart of any excavator.

Loss of hydraulic performance can dramatically reduce productivity.

Regularly inspect:

• Hydraulic hoses
• Cylinders
• Connections
• Seals
• Couplings

Look for:

• Cracks
• Abrasion
• Bulging hoses
• Oil seepage
• Loose fittings

Replace damaged hoses immediately rather than waiting for complete failure.

Hydraulic filters should also be replaced according to the service schedule.

Monitor Engine Performance

Modern diesel engines are designed to provide thousands of operating hours when properly maintained.

Watch for warning signs including:

• Excessive smoke
• Hard starting
• Reduced power
• High fuel consumption
• Overheating
• Unusual noises

Engine air filters should be inspected regularly, particularly when working in dusty conditions.

A blocked air filter forces the engine to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing fuel usage.

Look After the Cooling System

Overheating remains one of the leading causes of engine damage.

Check:

• Coolant levels
• Radiator cleanliness
• Fan belts
• Cooling fan
• Coolant hoses

Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot.

Keeping cooling packs clean allows unrestricted airflow, especially when working in dusty demolition or quarry applications.

Check Bucket Wear

The bucket is the excavator’s primary working tool.

Bucket teeth naturally wear over time.

Worn teeth reduce digging efficiency and place extra strain on the hydraulic system.

Inspect for:

• Broken teeth
• Loose adapters
• Cracks
• Excessive cutting edge wear

Replacing bucket teeth before they become excessively worn often protects the bucket itself from costly repairs.

Keep the Cab in Good Condition

Operator comfort directly influences productivity.

A clean, well-maintained cab improves concentration while helping operators identify machine warnings quickly.

Check:

• Seat condition
• Seat belt
• Controls
• Display screen
• Air conditioning
• Heater
• Wipers
• Horn
• Cameras

Clean windows also improve visibility and site safety.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Service Schedule

Daily maintenance is only part of the picture.

Manufacturers specify servicing intervals based on operating hours.

These typically include:

• Engine oil changes
• Fuel filter replacement
• Hydraulic filter replacement
• Air filter replacement
• Valve adjustments
• Hydraulic oil changes
• Coolant replacement

Skipping scheduled servicing often voids warranty cover and significantly shortens machine life.

Maintaining a full service history also helps maximise resale value.

Train Operators Properly

Good maintenance starts with good operation.

Even the best-maintained excavator will suffer premature wear if used incorrectly.

Operators should avoid:

• Travelling unnecessarily
• Slamming the bucket
• Overloading
• Excessive idling
• Using the bucket as a hammer
• Swinging heavy loads aggressively

Smooth operation reduces stress across the entire machine.

Record Maintenance Activities

Keeping accurate service records helps identify recurring issues and ensures servicing isn’t missed.

Record:

• Operating hours
• Service dates
• Parts replaced
• Fluid changes
• Repairs completed
• Inspection notes

Digital maintenance records also simplify warranty claims and improve fleet management.

Use Genuine Parts

Although cheaper aftermarket components may appear attractive, genuine replacement parts are designed specifically for your machine.

Benefits include:

• Correct fitment
• Greater reliability
• Manufacturer warranty
• Improved performance
• Longer service life

Using quality filters, oils and replacement components often saves money over the long term.

Store Your Excavator Correctly

If the excavator will be unused for an extended period:

• Clean the machine thoroughly.
• Grease all lubrication points.
• Fill the fuel tank to reduce condensation.
• Disconnect the battery if recommended.
• Store under cover where possible.
• Protect hydraulic cylinders from corrosion.
• Start and operate the machine periodically if practical.

Proper storage reduces deterioration and ensures the excavator is ready when needed.

Final Thoughts

Routine excavator maintenance is one of the best investments any owner or fleet manager can make. Spending a few minutes each day inspecting, cleaning and lubricating your machine can prevent costly breakdowns, improve productivity and significantly extend the life of your equipment.

Whether you operate a single compact excavator or manage an entire fleet, following a preventative maintenance schedule will help keep your machines running efficiently for years to come.

At Banner Equipment, we not only supply high-quality new SANY excavators but also provide expert servicing, genuine parts and ongoing support to help customers maximise the performance of their investment. If you’d like advice on maintaining your excavator or need assistance with servicing, parts or attachments, our experienced team is always ready to help.