Usage:
Care must be taken to ensure that fluids are contained during performance of inspection, maintenance, testing, adjusting and repair of the machine. Be prepared to collect the fluid with suitable containers before opening any compartment or disassembling any component containing fluids. Refer to "Tools And Shop Products Guide", NENG2500 for tools and supplies suitable to collect and contain fluids in Caterpillar machines. Dispose fluids according to local regulations and mandates.
NOTE: Special care and cleanliness are essential for correct disassembly and assembly of the transmission, differential and other gear components. Failure to follow these procedures may result in early hour wear and failure. Thoroughly clean the exterior of the transmission and differential prior to any disassembly. Any exterior dirt which would enter the transmission or differential could cause damage and failure of the unit. Disassemble and assemble the unit in as clean an area as possible. It is essential to replace all parts which have become defective along with all O-rings and seals. All machined parts showing signs of scratches or other wear must be replaced. The cavities of the housing, especially the corners, must be carefully cleaned and rinsed. If the disassembly and assembly is a result of a serious breakdown, it is essential that all portions of the unit be cleaned and flushed to eliminate any broken parts or metal particles. Carefully lubricate all parts during reassembly. Cover all faces of housings and covers, which must be oil-tight towards the outside, with the proper sealing compound, gasket or O-ring. Prior to operation, insure that the unit has been filled with the proper lubricant. Consult the Operation And Maintenance Manual for the proper levels.
Tire Explosion Prevention
Explosions of air inflated tires have resulted from heat-induced gas combustion inside the tires. Explosions can be caused by heat that is generated by welding, by heating rim components, by external fire or by excessive use of brakes.
A tire explosion is much more violent than a blowout. The explosion can propel the tire, the rim components, and the axle components as far as 500 m (1500 ft) or more from the machine. Both the force of the explosion and the flying debris can cause property damage, personal injury, or death.
Do not approach a warm tire. Maintain a minimum distance, as shown. Stay outside the shaded area in illustration 1.
Dry nitrogen gas is recommended for inflation of tires. If the tires were originally inflated with air, nitrogen is still preferred for adjusting the pressure. Nitrogen mixes properly with air.
Nitrogen inflated tires reduce the potential of a tire explosion because nitrogen does not aid combustion. Nitrogen helps to prevent oxidation of the rubber, deterioration of rubber, and corrosion of rim components.
To avoid over inflation, proper nitrogen inflation equipment and training in the usage of the equipment are necessary. A tire blowout or a rim failure can result from improper equipment or from misused equipment.
When you inflate a tire, stand behind the tread and use a self-attaching chuck.