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Common faults and solutions in small excavator loosening operations

Apr 25, 2025

In the "small excavator loosening operation", the ripper is an important auxiliary tool. Its high efficiency and flexibility make it widely used in various operation scenarios such as gardening, farmland loosening, and wasteland reclamation. However, frequent use also means a higher wear rate. If there is a lack of daily maintenance and use specifications for the equipment, various problems that affect the operation efficiency are likely to occur.

This article will analyze the "common problems in the use of small excavator ripper" and propose corresponding solutions based on practical experience to help users better deal with on-site emergencies and ensure the progress of construction.

LOOSE OR FALLING STRUCTURE OF THE RIPPER

This is the most easily overlooked part of the "common faults of the ripper". After a long period of operation, the bolts and pins connecting the ripper may loosen due to vibration, and in severe cases, even cause the accessories to fall off, posing a safety hazard.

Solution:

The key is whether the "ripper installation method is correct or not". Before operation, check whether all connecting parts are tightened to ensure that the "ripper and small excavator are firmly and reliably connected". During the construction process, if there is an abnormal noise, stop the machine immediately to check and tighten the relevant parts. It is recommended to conduct an on-site inspection every 4 hours of operation, especially in high-intensity operation occasions.

SEVERE WEAR OF THE RIPPER TEETH

"The ripper wears quickly due to high intensity of operation" is a common feedback from users. Especially when working on dry and hard soil layers or ground containing gravel, the ripper teeth often wear very quickly, affecting the ground breaking effect.

Solution:

It is recommended to choose a "replaceable ripper tooth tip design" for easy regular replacement. There are a variety of wear-resistant alloy tooth heads available on the market, which can effectively extend the service life under controllable costs. At the same time, avoid using the ripper as a pry bar to avoid unnecessary structural damage.

INSUFFICIENT SINKING FORCE OF THE RIPPER

Some users found that they could not pierce the hard ground when "using the ripper of a small excavator to turn the soil", and there was a problem of insufficient sinking force. This may be related to insufficient hydraulic output of the excavator itself or mismatch of the ripper structure design.

Solution:
"Special ripper for small excavators matching tonnage" should be given priority to ensure that the hydraulic system can provide sufficient thrust. Some users only consider the price when purchasing, ignoring the matching of structural strength and hydraulic system. It is recommended to consult professional suppliers for matching calculations before use.

ABNORMAL HEATING OF HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

Although the ripper is usually a mechanical structure, some small ripper with "hydraulic tilting function" has the risk of too fast hydraulic oil temperature rise during use. Especially when working for a long time in a high temperature environment, abnormal pressure in the hydraulic system will affect the performance of the whole machine.

Solution:

Regularly check whether the hydraulic oil is aging and whether the oil pipe is blocked. Using hydraulic oil that meets the specifications is an important prerequisite to avoid system heating. "Maintenance of hydraulic system of small excavator" should be one of the daily tasks, and a comprehensive inspection should be carried out at least once a month.

RIPPER IS NOT SMOOTH OR SWINGS WIDELY

During operation, if "the ripper direction control is not sensitive and the swing amplitude is large", it is often related to excessive gap of the connection mechanism, wear of the cylinder, improper operation, etc.

Solution:

First, make sure the operator is familiar with the "correct working posture of the ripper" to avoid forced lateral force; second, check the "hydraulic cylinder sealing" and the wear of each connecting pin hole. If looseness is found, the pin shaft should be replaced or padded in time.

PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS: HOW TO AVOID FREQUENT FAILURES?

It is better to prevent in advance than to repair after the fact. In long-term use, "daily maintenance of small excavator ripper is very critical". After each operation, the soil and stone residue attached to the tip of the tooth should be cleaned to prevent rust; regular oiling, inspection of interfaces, and recording of equipment usage are important ways to extend the service life.

In addition, choosing a "quality reliable ripper brand" is also an effective way to reduce the failure rate from the source. At present, the brand BONOVO original accessories with good user feedback are particularly outstanding in steel strength, structural design and field adaptability with small excavators.

In actual operations, the construction environment is complex and changeable. Even "small excavator professional ripping equipment" is inevitably subject to various emergencies. Mastering the judgment methods and handling skills of common faults can not only save maintenance time and cost, but also greatly improve construction efficiency and safety factor. With the improvement of equipment management awareness, "standard operation of small excavator ripper" will become a necessary quality for every operator.

Choose BONOVO for high-quality, customizable brush cutters for skid steers with fast delivery. Contact us today to discover how our superior products can enhance your land management tasks!

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