HEAD 2990216 - Caterpillar

Improper lubrication can cause damage to machine components.To avoid damage, make sure that the proper amount of grease is applied to the swing drive.When the amount of grease in the compartment becomes too large, the agitation loss becomes large, thereby accelerating grease deterioration.Grease deterioration can cause damage to the pinion gear of the swing drive and swing internal gear. Not enough grease will result in poor gear lubrication.
Remove the inspection cover that is located near the boom base. Inspect the grease.
Illustration 1 g06188728
(1) Bolts
(2) Washers
(3) Cover
(4) Gasket
Remove bolts (1) and washers (2). Remove cover (3) and gasket (4).
Inspect gasket (4). Replace the gasket if damage is evident.
Illustration 2 g06188736
Check the level of grease. The level of grease is correct when:
Waves of grease are present from the rotating swing drive pinion.
The grease is evenly distributed on the floor of the pan.Note: Smeared or waveless areas are evidence for a lack of grease.Note: Add grease, as needed. Remove grease, as needed. Too much grease will result in the deterioration of the grease because of excessive movement of the grease. Too little grease will result in poor lubrication of the swing gear.Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Capacities (Refill)" for the size of the pan.
Check for contamination and for discolored grease.
Illustration 3 g06188788
(5) Bolts
(6) Washers
(7) Cover
(8) Gasket
If the grease is contaminated or discolored with water, change the grease. Remove the covers from below the swing drive underneath the undercarriage frame.
Remove bolts (5), washers (6), cover (7), and gasket (8) to allow the water to drain. When you reinstall cover (7), inspect gasket (8). Replace the gasket if damage is evident.
Illustration 4 g06188791
Raise the boom and turn the upper structure by 1/4 turn. Lower the bucket to the ground.
Repeat Step 7 at every 1/4 turn in four places. Add grease, as needed.
Install gasket (4), cover (3), washers (2), and bolts (1).