Routine maintenance keeps equipment running smoothly and prevents costly repairs and downtime — and that’s no different when it comes to a Kwik-Trech mini trencher. Whether you’re using your mini trencher daily or for seasonal projects, following the maintenance schedule and routine service checks outlined in the owner’s manual help to keep it running smoothly.
Below, we outline maintenance tips you can reference to keep your machine operating at its best.
Step 1: Engine Maintenance
Before starting on mini trencher maintenance, make sure that the engine is turned off and unplug the spark plugs. If your machine was just delivered and hasn’t been used before, keep in mind that our Kwik-Trench mini trencher is shipped without oil or gasoline. You will need to add these upon delivery.
Before each use, check the crankcase and gearbox oil level. The Kwik-Trench’s engine oil should be checked after every 10 hours of use, according to the engine manufacturer’s instructions. The engine air filter should also be changed at this time. Make sure to increase the cleaning frequency if you’re operating in dusty conditions. In extremely dusty conditions, protect the engine by attaching a remote air filter with a pre-cleaner to help extend the engine life.
Additionally, check engine nuts and bolts, fasteners and fittings after every 25 hours of use and tighten, if necessary. Add sealant to bolt threads at that time to prevent leakage.
Step 2: Drivetrain & Mechanical Component Maintenance Checks
Check the slip clutch facings’ thickness after 20-25 hours of use. Replace the facings if the thickness is less than 1/16 inch to maintain the 30-foot-per-minute trenching speed.
The shoulder bolts should be kept tight. If the clutch wears down, add a washer under each shoulder bolt or replace the clutch facings.
After 100 hours, grease the pillow block bearings to reduce wear and prevent corrosion.
Step 3: Routine V-Belt Care
Kwik-Trench mini trencher v-belts and sheaves wear gradually. As wear occurs, the belts will ride lower in the grooves. Belts that are too loose will cause slippage, loss of power, loss of speed and rapid wear to both the belt and the sheave. If this occurs, change out the v-belts.
Check regularly to make sure the sheaves are properly aligned and aren’t contaminated by grease or oil. Also ensure that the sheave sidewalls are perfectly straight. The drive and drive shafts should be parallel both horizontally and vertically with the centers of both sheaves being a straight line.
To adjust the fit, set the belt adjustment to its minimum position and place the new belt in the correct position by hand to avoid damaging the part.
Step 4: Blades & Teeth for the Kwik-Trench Cutter Blade
During every use, check for missing teeth or damage to the cutter wheel. Using the mini trencher with missing teeth causes a drop in performance and increases the likelihood of engine vibration, which can cause long-term damage to the drivetrain. Be sure to replace damaged or missing components before the next use.
If you do need to replace the cutter teeth, remove the two shoulder bolts, die springs, friction plate, clutch facings and the blade. The old teeth should be taken off the cutter blade before the new teeth are installed.
Step 5: General Care for Key Mini Trencher Components
The vertical frame posts and sleeves frequently require cleaning to prevent binding. These components should be checked every day for dirt and debris. For Little Beaver’s Kwik-Trench, use a silicone lubricant, not an oil-based one or grease.
Warning signs you need to engage in mini trencher maintenance:
- Howling or squealing
- Rattling
- Wobbly or shaky operation
- Stalling
While you should always keep up on routine maintenance, if you notice any of these warning signs during operation, it’s time to check your machine.
Regular maintenance keeps your Kwik-Trench up and running. Use this checklist as a quick reference to make sure you’re up to date on Kwik-Trench maintenance. For complete specifications and detailed step-by-step instructions, keep the operation manual on hand or contact our experts today to learn more.