Maintenance & Inspection Flashcards
7 cards from real MEOC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Maintenance & Inspection flashcards as text
What is the recommended method for disposing of used hydraulic fluid removed during a mini excavator service?
Answer: Store it in labeled containers and send it to a licensed recycler
Used hydraulic fluid is a regulated waste that must be collected, properly labeled, and disposed of through a licensed recycling or waste facility.
During a maintenance inspection, you find the rubber track has a crack that penetrates through to the steel cords. What is the correct action?
Answer: Replace the track before returning the machine to service
A crack reaching the steel cords means structural integrity is compromised; track failure can cause a sudden loss of machine mobility and creates a safety hazard.
Why is it important to change the hydraulic return filter at the manufacturer's recommended interval on a mini excavator?
Answer: To prevent contaminated fluid from circulating and damaging pumps, valves, and cylinders
A clogged or bypassing return filter allows metal particles and contaminants to circulate through the system, accelerating wear on all hydraulic components.
What does it mean when a mini excavator's engine coolant reservoir shows the level is consistently dropping between checks?
Answer: There is a leak in the cooling system that must be found and repaired
A consistently dropping coolant level indicates an external leak, internal leak (head gasket), or coolant being burned in the combustion chamber, all requiring diagnosis.
When should the fuel filter on a mini excavator be replaced in addition to the standard scheduled interval?
Answer: When fuel contamination is suspected or the engine shows signs of fuel starvation
Fuel filters should be replaced on schedule AND whenever contamination is suspected or symptoms of fuel starvation (hard starting, power loss) appear.
What is the function of a mini excavator's slew ring (swing bearing) grease fitting, and how often should it be lubricated?
Answer: It introduces grease to the bearing raceway and ring gear; lubricate per OEM schedule, typically every 8–50 hours
The slew ring fitting delivers grease to the bearing raceway and ring gear to prevent corrosion and wear; OEM schedules typically require lubrication every 8–50 hours.
An operator notices the engine exhaust from a mini excavator is black and smoky. Which maintenance issue is most likely responsible?
Answer: Over-fueling caused by a clogged air filter restricting airflow
Black smoke indicates a rich fuel mixture, most commonly caused by a restricted air filter that reduces combustion air, causing incomplete fuel burn.