In modern construction equipment, we see many changes as technology continues to improve. Wheel loaders have also evolved and seen improvements over the years. These machines were already praised by operators and contractors for their efficiency, and now the newer models are even more capable and efficient. These machines make it possible for operators of any skill level to deliver on time.
Of course, if an operator knows how to take advantage of their machine’s features, they will be able to get the job done faster and more efficiently. If you want to improve your profitability and lower the total cost of ownership of the loader, you need to learn how you can take advantage of all its features. The following are a few tips for wheel loader operators to improve productivity and efficiency while working.
Loading Efficiency
You will find that there are several functions on the machine designed to improve cycle times and using them will do just that. Use features like the boom kick out and return to dig on the machine for better productivity. For instance, if you use the boom kick out, the boom will stop at a fixed point while lifting. This can be very helpful, especially if you are loading a truck at the same height for a long time.
Another thing that can improve loading efficiency is the return to dig feature of the loader. With the return to dig function, the bucket will return to the same position every time. This will allow you to set a position for the boom before filling the bucket.
Y Cycle
When you are loading trucks, you should use the Y cycle as it is very efficient. To do this, you have to make sure that the trucks stay in the same position so the Y cycle is not too big or small. Being too close to the truck and the pile makes it difficult to maneuver at the right speed. If you cannot move at an efficient speed easily, you will have to steer more than necessary, and that will slow down your cycle time.
Improve Your Technique with Technology
As an operator, the technique you use while loading the bucket is the most important thing. Make sure that you know how to set the bucket level when entering. You also need to be able to use the lift and tilt functions smoothly and maintain your momentum when pushing into the pile. If you fail to do this properly, you will see the machine either bucks around wildly or tends to get stuck in the pile. The loading cycle can really be disrupted by something like this, and it can cost you a lot of time and put unnecessary strain on the tires and the loader.
There are a few wheel loader technologies out there which can make loading easier. When you are looking for a wheel loader for sale make sure that the one you select has all the right components. For example, with the help of adjustable lever sensitivity, you can choose the response level of hydraulic levers. Another feature that is really useful is the rim pull control. With the help of this feature, you can adjust the power that is being sent to the wheels. You can improve your loading technique if you make use of these technologies when operating the loader.