TM 5-3805-280-10
It is necessary to know how fluid leakage affects the status of the Hydraulic Excavator. The following are
definitions of the classes of leakage an operator or crewmember needs to know to be able to determine the
condition of the leak. Learn and then be familiar with them, and REMEMBER-WHEN IN DOUBT, ASK
YOUR SUPERVISOR.
Leakage Definitions for Crew/Operator PMCS:
CLASS I-Seepage of fluid (as indicated by wetness or discoloration) not great enough to form drops.
CLASS II-Leakage of fluid great enough to form drops but not enough to cause drops to drip from item
being checked.
CLASS III-Leakage of fluid great enough to form drops that fall from the item being checked.
A-3. INSPECTION
Look for signs of a problem or trouble. Senses help here. You can feel, smell, hear, or see many problems.
Be alert when on the Hydraulic Excavator.
Inspect to see if items are in good condition. Are they correctly assembled, stowed, secured, excessively
worn, leaking, corroded, or properly lubricated? Correct any problems found or notify unit maintenance.
There are some common items to check all over the Hydraulic Excavator. These include the following:
1. Bolts, clamps, nuts, and screws: Continuously check for looseness. Look for chipped paint, bare metal,
rust, or corrosion around bolt and screw heads and nuts. Tighten them when you find them loose. If tools
are not available, notify unit maintenance.
2. Welds: Many items on the Hydraulic Excavator are welded. To check these welds, look for chipped
paint, rust, corrosion, or gaps. When these conditions exist, notify unit maintenance on DA Form 2404.
3. Electrical wires, connectors, and harnesses: Tighten loose connectors. Look for cracked or broken
insulation, bare wires, and broken connectors. If any are found, notify unit maintenance.
4. Hoses and fluid lines: Look for wear, damage, and leaks, and make sure clamps and fittings are tight.
Wet spots mean a leak. A stain by a fitting or connector can also mean a leak. When you find a leak, notify
unit maintenance.
A-4. LUBRICATION SERVICE INTERVALS-NORMAL CONDITIONS
For safer, more trouble-free operations, make sure that the Hydraulic Excavator is serviced in accordance
with the proper lubrication and service intervals specified in the PMCS.
A-5. LUBRICATION SERVICE INTERVALS-UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
The Hydraulic Excavator will require extra service and care when you operate under unusual conditions.
High or low temperatures, long periods of hard use, or continued use, in sand, water, mud, or snow will
break down the lubricant requiring you to add or change lubricant more often.
A-2
