how to start a john deere mini excavator

John Deere mini excavators are highly popular with construction firms due to their reliability, durability and versatility. It is essential to know the correct procedure for starting a John Deere mini excavator before operating it to avoid damage to the machine. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to start a John Deere mini excavator.

Pre-Starting Checks

Before starting the excavator, it is important to conduct some checks to ensure that it is in good working condition. Inspect the machine for any visible damage or leaks, and check the oil, hydraulic fluid and fuel levels. If any defects are noticed, they should be repaired before starting the machine. Next, ensure that the seatbelt and roll-over protection structure are in place and functional. A mini excavator operator must also put on safety gear, such as a hard hat, gloves, boots and safety glasses.

Starting the Engine

To start the John Deere mini excavator engine, lower the safety lever located on the control panel, and press the emergency stop button. Turn the ignition key to the ON position, and wait for the engine preheat light to turn off. After that, push the throttle lever to the right to increase the engine speed and then turn the key to the START position. The engine will start, and you should release the ignition key and the safety lever. Raise the safety lever to engage the controls, and ensure that all gauges and warning lights are functioning correctly.

Operating the Excavator

Once the engine is started, you can operate the excavator with the controls. The left and right joysticks control the tracks, while the foot pedals operate the boom and stick. Use the left joystick to control the left track and the right joystick to control the right track. Pushing both joysticks forward moves the excavator forward, while pulling them back moves it backward. To operate the boom and stick, press the right foot pedal to move the boom up and down, and the left foot pedal to control the swing of the stick.

Shutting Down the Excavator

After you are done using the excavator, it is time to shut it down. First, ensure that the excavator is on level ground and that all controls are in the neutral position. Turn the throttle lever to idle position, and allow the engine to run for a few minutes to let it cool down. Next, turn off all switches and lights, and lower the safety lever to stop the engine. Finally, remove the key and lock the machine.

Conclusion

Starting a John Deere mini excavator requires following a sequence of steps to ensure successful start-up and prevent damage to the machine. It is important to conduct pre-start checks, know how to start the engine, and operate the excavator correctly. Operators should also know how to properly shut down the machine after use to avoid wear and tear. By following the steps outlined in this article, operators can start a John Deere mini excavator with confidence.