Cleaning The Belly Pan Of Your Svl90-2: A Step-By-Step Guide

Cleaning out the belly pan of a skid steer or tractor can be a challenging task. The belly pan area often collects dirt, debris, and fluids that can be difficult to access and remove. While some suggest using a vacuum cleaner and compressed air, others recommend more intensive methods such as tipping the machine, removing covers and access panels, and spending several hours pressure washing or power washing the area. One key consideration is finding a way to drain the water and debris, such as by parking the machine over a hole or using steep ramps to allow the waste to flow out. Keeping the belly pan clean can make repair work easier and help identify leaks more quickly.

Remove the cab and access panels

To clean out the belly pan of an SVL90-2, you will need to remove the cab and access panels. This will provide access to the engine bay and underside of the machine, allowing you to power wash and rinse away any built-up dirt, debris, and grime.

Start by raising the boom arms and flipping the cab. You may also want to raise the arms for improved access. Once the cab is raised, the next step is to open all the access panels. There are four access panels in total: two on each side of the belly, and two small covers at the front of the machine, underneath the foot pedals. Removing these access panels will require some physical force, as the bolts may be rusted or have beaten-up heads, making it difficult to get a socket on them.

Before beginning the cleaning process, it is important to take safety precautions. Put on a rain suit with a hood and safety glasses. It is also recommended to keep your mouth closed during the cleaning process to avoid inhaling any debris or cleaning products.

With the cab raised and the access panels removed, you can now begin power washing the engine bay and underside of the machine. Direct the power washer wand from front to back, rinsing away any dirt and debris. This process may take upwards of two hours, and you may need to tip the machine to the back and sides to ensure a thorough clean. Despite your best efforts, it is unlikely that you will be able to remove all the dirt and debris, but the process will still result in a significantly cleaner machine.

In addition to power washing, you can also use a vacuum cleaner and compressed air to remove dirt and dust from hard-to-reach areas. Just be sure to avoid getting any electronics wet during the cleaning process.

Use a pressure washer

To clean out the belly pan of an SVL90-2 with a pressure washer, follow these steps:

First, locate the belly pan of your SVL90-2. This is usually found underneath the machine, often with several access panels that can be removed. Before beginning the cleaning process, it is important to put on the appropriate safety gear, including a rain suit with a hood and safety glasses.

Next, you will want to raise the machine slightly to access the belly pan more easily. Depending on the layout of your workspace, you may consider using ramps or a sloped surface to elevate the machine and allow for better drainage. If possible, raise the cab and the boom arms to provide more space to work with.

Once you have sufficient access to the belly pan, it is time to start pressure washing. Using a pressure washer wand, begin spraying the affected areas, working from front to back. Pay close attention to the areas around the pedals and the drive motors, as these tend to accumulate dirt and debris. You may need to adjust the pressure and stream of the washer to avoid damaging any sensitive components. It is generally recommended to use a wide fan setting and maintain a distance of at least 18 inches from the machine when pressure washing.

The cleaning process may take several hours, and even then, it may be challenging to remove all the dirt and grime completely. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help keep the machine in better condition and make future cleaning sessions more manageable. Remember to be cautious when working with powerful equipment like pressure washers, and always prioritize your safety.

Tip the machine to the back

To clean out the belly pan of an SVL90-2, you will need to tip the machine to the back and to each side. This will allow you to access the covers on the sides and spray them with a hose. It is important to note that you should be careful not to get any electronics wet during the cleaning process.

Tipping the machine to the back will help to move the dirt, hyd fluid, and gunk that has collected in the belly pan towards the sides and front, making it easier to spray out. It is recommended to remove the covers on the sides of the machine for better access.

Even with tipping the machine and spraying with a hose, it is unlikely that you will be able to get everything completely clean. There will likely be some residue that you will need to remove by hand. Use caution when sticking your hand in the machine to pull out debris, as you don't want to get any electronics wet.

Additionally, it is worth noting that some people suggest not cleaning out the belly pan at all. They argue that it is a lot of work and may not be worth the effort. However, if you decide to proceed with cleaning, tipping the machine to the back will be an important step in the process.

Drain the belly pan

To drain the belly pan of an SVL90-2, begin by removing the front covers near the pedals and the covers at the drive motors. Then, tip the cab up and scoop out as much dirt and debris as possible through the holes. Next, locate the drain holes at the rear of the chain case and poke holes through them if they haven't been opened before. Position your SVL90-2 over a hole in the ground or a sloped surface to allow for easier drainage of the dirty water. You can also pull the machine up a hill or a ramp to facilitate the drainage process.

Once you have completed the initial steps of removing the covers and locating the drain holes, it's time to start washing the belly pan. Raise the boom arms and flip the cab. Use a pressure washer for this step, and be prepared to spend a significant amount of time on it—up to two hours or more. Wash from front to back, and repeat the process as needed. It is worth noting that even after extensive washing, it is challenging to get a Bobcat completely clean.

To enhance the cleaning process, consider removing the two side access panels to scoop out more dirt by hand. Additionally, look for a drain plug in the belly pan, which can be removed to aid in drainage. Raising the arms can also improve access for a more thorough cleaning.

Remember to wear the appropriate safety gear, such as a rain suit with a hood and safety glasses, during the cleaning process.

Vacuum and use compressed air

To clean out the belly pan of an SVL90-2, vacuuming and using compressed air is an effective method. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, prepare the necessary equipment: a vacuum cleaner, a compressed air gun or canister, and the appropriate safety gear. The safety gear should include eye protection, a respirator, and gloves. This process can be messy and safety should always be a priority.

Next, locate the belly pan and identify the access panels. Depending on the machine, there may be side panels or covers that can be removed to access the belly pan. Remove these panels to gain access to the interior. It is important to consult the operator's manual or seek advice from a qualified technician if you are unsure about the specific procedure for your machine.

Once the belly pan is accessible, use the vacuum cleaner to remove any loose debris, dirt, or residue. Vacuum as much of the belly pan as you can reach, taking care not to damage any sensitive components or wiring. This step will help to remove the bulk of the contamination.

After vacuuming, use the compressed air to blow out any remaining dirt or debris from hard-to-reach areas. Compressed air can help dislodge stubborn contaminants and reach areas that the vacuum cleaner might not be able to access. Be cautious when using compressed air to avoid blowing dirt and debris into sensitive areas or spreading it around. Work systematically, ensuring that you cover all areas of the belly pan.

Finally, once you have completed the cleaning process, replace the access panels and ensure that they are securely fastened. It is also a good idea to inspect the machine for any signs of leaks or damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help identify potential issues early on, so it is beneficial to establish a consistent cleaning routine.

By following these steps and utilizing the power of vacuuming and compressed air, you can effectively clean out the belly pan of an SVL90-2, ensuring that your machine remains in good working condition.

Frequently asked questions