How to Safely Operate a Track Loader

Track loaders are highly versatile and durable pieces of heavy equipment, but they also come with some risks. They can pose a threat to the operator as well as nearby workers, which is why proactive and preventative safety strategies are crucial. Keep reading for tips on safe track loader operation, then visit Bobcat of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County to check out our selection of track loaders for sale in Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Know the Common Safety Risks

The first step to safe track loader operation is prevention. Take the proper precautions to keep issues from happening. While you can't stop every possible situation, you can take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of the most common safety issues.

Keep the Track Loader Well-Maintained

Maintaining your track loader is also a helpful step in ensuring safe operation. Inspect the various parts on a regular basis, such as the undercarriage, tracks, and attachments. Keep all the parts clean and lubricated. Address issues quickly before they become bigger problems. A well-maintained track loader will last longer and perform better in addition to operating safer.

Safety Best Practices

When operating your track loader, it’s important to be aware of the area so you can easily adjust your driving as needed. Remember that no one should ever ride in the bucket of a track loader. If you need to travel up a slope, do so vertically instead of diagonally. If you need to go down a slope, the track loader’s bucket bottom should be low and parallel to the ground.

Also, be sure to keep standard safety guards in place. Dress for the job by choosing sturdy footwear and clothes that fit closely, without any loose fabric that could get caught in the moving parts. Wear hearing protection, like earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, to muffle the noise on your job site. Take plenty of breaks and stay hydrated and well-nourished to avoid becoming tired and losing focus.

Safe Parking

Once you are done for the day, find somewhere to park the machine. Focus on finding a level surface and make sure that the bucket attachment is on the ground. Next, turn off the auto-idle switch and have the engine run at half throttle for a few minutes. This cools the turbocharger down. Before you shut the engine off, set the RPM to low idle. Finally, be sure to lock up the cab.

We hope you found these track loader operating tips helpful! For more ownership tips or to shop track loaders for sale, reach out to the friendly staff at Bobcat of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County. Our service department can replace broken parts, perform maintenance, and tackle other tasks to keep your equipment running well. Whatever you need, our expert staff can assist. We have several locations serving all those in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, so stop by today!