Tips for Maintaining Platform Leveling Chains

Utility worker inspecting Terex bucket truck

Leveling chain maintenance is critical to ensuring the safe and efficient leveling operation of the platform on bucket trucks, equipped with mechanical leveling. The proper function of leveling chains directly influences the stability and smooth movement of the bucket, enabling workers to perform tasks at various heights. Regular inspection and maintenance of these chains can help prevent potential accidents and equipment failure, and ultimately reduces downtime and ensures uninterrupted use of the equipment. By emphasizing the importance of equipment maintenance, companies can uphold their safety standards, protect their workforce from potential hazards, and prolong the lifespan of their valuable equipment.

Here are some essential tips for properly maintaining leveling chains:

Regular Inspections: Conduct daily visual inspections of the leveling chain system. Refer to the unit specific maintenance manual for the correct inspection intervals. The purpose of the inspection is to identify signs of wear, damage, or corrosion and to look for loose or missing components, cracked links, or any abnormalities. View Terex Tech Tip 58 and the machine’s maintenance manual for information on inspecting leveling chains.

Replace Chain if Needed and as Required: If you notice any components of the leveling chain showing signs of excessive wear, such as damaged links or bent parts, replace the chain immediately. Using damaged components can compromise safety. Do not exceed the service life period of the chain. The maximum service life of a leveling chain is determined by the manufacture. Refer to the model’s maintenance manual for manufacture’s guidelines. Some chains must be removed at five-year intervals and measured for wear, others must be strictly replaced at 10-year intervals. The maintenance manual will tell how to determine which interval is required. Information on inspecting standard chains and measuring elongation can be found in Terex Tech Tip 58 and in the machine’s maintenance manual. At a five-year leveling inspection all chains that exceed the maximum elongation must be replaced. View Terex Tech Tip 126 and the machine’s maintenance manual for instructions on how to replace leveling chains on all Terex Optima models.
Lubrication: Apply the appropriate lubricant to the leveling chain regularly. Lubrication helps prevent rust, reduces friction, and ensures smooth operation. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and lube chart for the type of lubricant and frequency of application.
Cleaning: Keep the leveling chain clean and free from debris. Do not use grease to lubricate the chains, it prevents lubrication from getting to interior surfaces. Clean chains are less likely to experience excessive wear and tear. If accumulation of dirt, grit, or dust is evident, the chains should be cleaned by flushing and brushing with a suitable solvent such as diesel fuel or kerosene to remove all foreign material and then re-lubricated thoroughly. If the accumulation is severe, the chain should be removed and purged of foreign matter by soaking and flushing in suitable solvent, followed by immersion in proper lubricant before reinstallation.
Operator Training: Train your bucket truck operators to be aware of the importance of the leveling chain and its proper maintenance. They must report any issues they notice during their pre-operation checks to their supervisor, maintenance department, or whomever their company designates. Do not exceed the platform capacity as it will shorten the life of the system and possibly fail.
Document Maintenance: Keep detailed records of leveling chain maintenance, including inspection dates, adjustments made, and any replacements. This documentation can help ensure accountability and track the equipment's history.
Consult the Manufacturer's Guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and inspection of the leveling chain, as they can provide specific recommendations tailored to your equipment.
Seek Professional Assistance: If you are uncertain about maintaining the leveling chain or if there are complex issues, it's advisable to consult with a qualified technician or the equipment manufacturer for guidance and repairs.