Guide Overview

Replacing Your Final Drive

The final drive is a critical component in your excavator, powering its movement. When a final drive fails, it can bring your entire operation to a halt. Fortunately, replacing a final drive is a doable task, though it requires specific procedures to ensure safety and proper function. This guide will walk you through the steps involved in replacing your excavator’s final drive.

Important Safety Notice

Replacing a final drive involves working with heavy components and high-pressure hydraulic systems. If you are not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic. Always prioritize safety, use proper jack stands, and relieve system pressure before starting.

Preparation & Tools

Gather Your Tools

  • Wrenches & heavy-duty sockets
  • Torque wrench (matching manual specifications)
  • Lifting sling and crane/mechanism
  • Jack stands & crawler blockers
  • Safety glasses & oil-resistant gloves
  • Clean rags and hose caps

Before You Start

  • Identify the culprit: Confirm drive failure (leaks, noises, loss of power in one track).
  • Order compatible replacement: Match your machine’s brand, model, and OEM part number.
  • Prepare the workspace: Choose a level, solid surface with ample room to maneuver.
  • Consult service manual for machine-specific specs.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Track Removal

Loosen and remove the track on the side with the failing final drive. Relieve the grease valve pressure on the track tensioner first. Follow your excavator’s service manual for proper track handling and removal procedures.

2

Sprocket Disassembly

Loosen and remove the high-tensile bolts securing the sprocket to the final drive hub. Carefully pry and remove the sprocket. Check the sprocket teeth for wear—if they are sharp or hooked, replace the sprocket along with the drive.

3

Final Drive Support

Safely secure the final drive with a heavy-duty sling attached to a crane, hoist, or excavator bucket. The final drive is extremely heavy and will fall once mounting bolts are removed.

4

Hydraulic Hose Disconnection

Mark the hydraulic hoses (specifically tracking A/B lines, 2-speed pilot line, and drain line) for reassembly reference. Loosen the couplings, disconnect the hoses, and immediately plug/cap both hoses and ports to prevent dust and contamination.

Critical Step
5

Mounting Bolt Removal

Locate and remove the mounting bolts that secure the final drive casing to the excavator frame chassis. Work in a cross-pattern sequence. Consult your service manual for the exact location and removal sequence.

6

Final Drive Removal

Once all the mounting bolts are removed, carefully lower the final drive with the sling and remove it from the track frame slot.

7

New Final Drive Installation

Clean the mounting surface slot on the excavator frame. Carefully lift and position the new final drive into place using the sling. Ensure the hose port holes are aligned in the correct orientation.

8

Final Drive Mounting

Secure the new final drive to the excavator frame using the mounting bolts. Use thread locker (e.g., Loctite) if specified. Tighten the bolts in a cross pattern to the torque settings specified in your service manual.

9

Hydraulic Hose Reconnection

Remove the dust plugs. Reconnect the hydraulic hoses to the corresponding ports on the new final drive, referencing your markings. Ensure the seals or O-rings are clean and in good condition to prevent oil leaks.

10

Sprocket Reassembly

Reattach the sprocket to the new final drive hub. Apply thread locker and tighten the bolts to the recommended torque specification using a torque wrench.

11

Track Installation

Reinstall the track back onto the sprocket and idler wheels. Adjust the track tension following your machine’s service manual procedures (grease valve pumping).

12

Final Checks & Test Drive

Fill the new final drive with fresh gear oil (typically 80W-90) to the fill line. Check all hose connections for leaks. Test drive the machine slowly on a level surface, validating forward, backward, and two-speed travel function.

Professional Tips for Long Drive Life

Always take reference photos during hose disassembly.
Change the hydraulic filters while the system is open to catch old debris.
Clean contamination out of the oil lines before plugging in the new motor.
Dispose of used hydraulic and gear oils responsibly at a recycling facility.
Check gear oil levels every 250 operating hours, and replace every 1,000 hours.
Refer to your specific machine manual for torque settings.
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