Why does my Skytrak 8042 wobble when retracting the boom? Oil or grease for better performance?

Question:

Hello everyone, I have a couple of questions that I would love some feedback on. I recently purchased my first telehandler, a 01 8042 legacy series skytrak. One issue I have noticed is that when the boom is fully extended and I retract it, the machine starts to wobble and vibrate significantly. Any insights on what might be causing this issue? Secondly, I am unsure whether I should grease the boom and chain or use 40 weight oil. I have heard conflicting advice, with some suggesting using either 40w or 50w oil. Can anyone clarify which option would be best? Thank you for your help!

Top Replies

When it comes to maintaining your equipment, it's crucial to apply grease to the booms regularly. Additionally, spraying chain lube on the chain is essential for smooth operation. If you notice any shaking while retracting, applying grease should be your first step. If the issue persists, it's important to check for any missing wear pads to ensure proper functioning. Regular lubrication and inspection are key to keeping your equipment in top condition.

For optimal maintenance, we typically apply chain lube from a spray can to lubricate the chains, followed by a coating of lithium grease on the booms. If the situation is severe, as suggested by Knepptune, it's possible that a wear pad is missing or that a bolt is loose.

Thank you, guys, for the helpful suggestions! I have inspected my wear pads and they all appear to be in good condition. However, I am experiencing excessive shaking, even causing the main boom cylinder to shake erratically. Additionally, I have noticed that the hydraulic pump is making louder noises than usual when retracting. Is this a common issue that can be easily resolved?

Need to adjust your chains? You can easily access free manuals for download on the JLG website.

Bulldet expressed gratitude for the valuable suggestions provided by the community! Upon inspecting the wear pads, they appear to be in good condition and properly secured. However, Bullett is concerned about the excessive shaking, especially in the main boom cylinder, and the unusually loud noise from the hydraulic pump during retraction. Is this a common issue? Additionally, it is advisable to examine the booms for any signs of misalignment or damage. Even small adjustments can prevent complications during operation.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Why does my Skytrak 8042 wobble when retracting the boom?

Answer: - The wobbling and vibration when retracting the boom on your Skytrak 8042 could be caused by various factors such as worn-out components, misalignment, or hydraulic issues. It is recommended to have a professional inspect the telehandler to determine the exact cause of the problem.

FAQ: 2. Should I use grease or oil for better performance on my Skytrak 8042 boom and chain?

Answer: - The choice between using grease or oil for lubricating the boom and chain of your Skytrak 8042 can depend on manufacturer recommendations and specific maintenance guidelines. It is advisable to refer to the telehandler's manual or consult with a qualified technician to determine the best lubrication option for optimal performance.

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