KIT-MAINTENANCE 3511747 - Caterpillar

Introduction
Complaints have been received regarding premature wear to the General Purpose bucket fitted to certain backhoe loaders. This complaint has been at low service hours.Problem
Illustration 1 g03415576
Damaged bucketAfter investigation, the cause of this wear is generally because of the way the machine is being operated. The wear usually takes place if the operator is using the front bucket to level the ground by placing the bucket flat on the ground and driving the machine backwards, or forwards. If the rear edge of the bucket is in contact with the ground while performing this function, accelerated wear will occur on the rear edge of the bucket.Solution
Illustration 2 g03415573
Incorrect positioning for leveling
Illustration 3 g03415574
Correct positioning for levelingThe base of the bucket should not touch the ground when grading or Leveling off. This action will cause excessive wear to the bottom plates of the bucket. The bucket needs to be slightly tilted forward when performing Leveling operations. This action ensures that the front cutting edge contacts the ground. The cutting edge is made of hardened metal which protects the body of the bucket from wearing. The cutting edge is bolted on so can be easily replaced once worn.The "Return to Dig" function of the Backhoe Loader sets the bucket at the correct angle for Leveling, and ensures that the rear of the bucket cannot be dragged across the ground when Leveling. This function should be used to set the bucket position before Leveling. Ensure that the return to dig sensor is set correctly, and the rear of the bucket does NOT touch the ground when set. Refer to image 1 to set bucket to the correct position. Correct use of the "Return to Dig" function will allow the operator to set the bucket at the correct angle. The "Return to Dig" function will help to avoid any accelerated wear.