Rough stuff PM.

The DEUCE is a tough workhorse that needs lots of PM while working in the rough stuff. Operators, here are some PM pointers that will help your earthmover at the worksite.

Hydraulic Oil Strainer

Keep your oil supply covered and protected. Wipe off any sand around the earthmover's filler cap before removing it to add hydraulic fluid.

When it's dusty, use a clean rag around the oil can nozzle and filler hole while you add oil to block out the dust.

Also, be careful when adding oil. The oil can nozzle can tear a hole in the side of the strainer or knock out its bottom. Then sand has a straight path to the tank.

If the strainer is damaged or missing, tell your mechanic.

Blade Switch Brush-Off 

Bulldozing through heavy brush can damage the blade-down limit switch that's mounted below the cab door. Limbs pull wires off the switch or tear it off the vehicle's frame.

Without the switch, the DEUCE can't run in the EARTHMOVING mode. Then your construction operations come to a halt.

So, eyeball the switch to make sure it's in place and not damaged or disconnected. Call in your mechanic if it's damaged or dangling.

Coolant Tank Snap-Cap

Constant exposure to the elements causes the cap on the coolant level tank to deteriorate.

Eventually, the cap breaks apart, allowing water, dust and sand to get into the coolant. That's not good!

Eyeball the cap for cracks. If you find any or if the cap is missing, get a new one that snaps in place with NSN 5340-01-474-3118.

Battery Clamp

Bouncing around in the rough stuff loosens battery clamps. A loose connection keeps your battery from recharging and your dozer from starting.

Before the day's operation, gently test the tightness of the battery clamps. Using your thumb and two fingers, try to move battery clamp connections.

Then make sure the battery indicator and ammeter gauge are into the CHARGE range before you go.