BEARINGS AND INTERNAL COMPONENTS OF THE MULCHER: WHAT TO CHECK AND WHEN TO REPLACE THEM

Mulcher bearings

Trenchers are robust and complex machines designed to do even intense and often repetitive work over time.

For this reason, among the parts most subject to wear and tear and most susceptible to potential failure are the bearings and other internal components that ensure the proper functioning of moving parts by helping to determine the overall life of the machinery.

Preventive maintenance and periodic inspection of these elements therefore become essential to maintain high operational efficiency and prevent sudden failures that could lead to major and unforeseeable outlays.

In this article we will look, in detail, at what to check in the bearings and internal components of a mulcher, when it is time to replace them, and how to maintain them properly and safely.

Main components of the mulcher: cause of wear and tear

The main internal component that requires the most frequent and thorough inspection is the rotor with its associated tools. This assembly is the operational heart of the forage harvester and is subject to wear and tear, especially if the moving parts do not work properly in balance and equilibrium. If problems occur, vibrations can be generated that directly damage the supporting bearings.

Other causes of bearing failure may include lack of lubrication, use of unsuitable lubricating grease, violent and prolonged shocks during operation, and use of the machine with an unbalanced rotor.

A small, basic, but useful tip is to pay regular attention to noise during operation: an abnormal sound is often the first sign that action is needed.

Bearings: why they are important

Bearings are fundamental devices that allow certain mechanical parts to move, reducing friction and thus wear. In trenches, these components are found in many areas: in shear heads, pulleys, drive shafts and transmission parts.

 

What to check in bearings

  • Abnormal noises: An obvious symptom of bearing deterioration is the manifestation of different noise, often coupled with squeaks or thumps from the bearings during operation.
  • Presence of excessive “play” between parts: it is useful to check whether the bearings have play or move abnormally from their normal operating state.
  • Signs of overheating: overheated bearings can generate color changes on the surfaces involved. Shades of colors such as blue or yellow on the surface will be more noticeable, as will any scoring indicating signs of excessive friction.
  • Visual damage: Presence of cracks, breaks, loss of lubricant or rust on the outer surface.
  • Loss of lubricant: lubricants used must maintain some adherence to surfaces, which must allow for minimal “clinging.” Loss of lubricant due to lubricant slipping on parts can cause increased friction and premature wear.

When to replace bearings

Whenever the problems highlighted above occur or when it is realized that, following an inspection, conditions have changed, bearing replacement is necessary. Specifically:

  • Presence of abnormal noises and excessive play between parts despite re-lubrication
  • Obvious visual damage, such as the presence of cracks, breaks, cracks, and lubricant leakage.
  • Excessive overheating.

The replacement of bearings and internal components, if necessary, should be done with the machine off and the engine cold. First it is advisable to set up proper tools, then all parts involved should be cleaned before proceeding with the installation of the new components.

Internal components: what to check

In addition to bearings, there are other internal components of the mulcher that require regular checks, such as shafts, gears and pulleys.

    • Transmissions and gears: the wear condition of the teeth should be checked, making sure that no cracks or deformations are present. When a gear is worn, it can cause slipping or abnormal noise.
    • Trees: checking for any signs of deformation, the presence of cracks or signs of wear, is primarily visual. A damaged shaft can compromise the entire transmission and adversely affect the operation of the entire system.
    • Pulleys and belts: it is advisable to check that these parts are in good condition, without cracks, crazing or excessive wear. The correct tension of belts, for example, is a very important parameter to avoid slippage or sudden breakage.
    • Lubrication system: you should ensure that there is lubricant and that it is properly distributed, to reduce friction and promote sliding.

When to perform checks on bearings and internal components

It goes without saying that regular inspection identifies the best possible solution to maintain high quality of work, safeguard mechanical and hydraulic parts, and prevent possible breakage. It is necessary, therefore, to carry out periodic checks, especially when the mulcher is used frequently.

Even when there is intensive use, it is good to spend a few extra minutes in checking. The best thing to do is to follow the directions in the machinery’s owner’s manual.

In summary

Check bearings and internal components regularly of a forage harvester is critical to preserving its functionality and extending its service life. Careful observation of signs such as abnormal noises, excessive connection play, overheating or visual damage allows for early intervention, avoiding costly downtime and deeper repairs. Preventive maintenance, combined with the use of quality parts and proper lubrication, is the key to keeping the mulcher in top condition at all times, ensuring efficiency and safety in daily work.