Hardware
Equipment cutting edges and bucket teeth are crucial Ground Engaging Tools designed to absorb the primary impact and abrasion during excavation, protecting the main structure of the bucket. The associated hardware is primarily used to securely attach these wear parts to the bucket's lip.
Cutting Edges
Hardware/Installation
Bolt-On: These are attached using a series of heavy-duty nuts and plow bolts. This method is favored for easy and quick replacement or flipping (many are reversible to extend life), minimizing machine downtime.
Weld-On: These are welded directly to the bucket's base edge, creating a strong, permanent bond that can endure high-impact work without the risk of bolts loosening. They offer greater durability and reduced maintenance in tough applications.
Bucket Teeth
Bucket teeth are heavy-duty metal spikes (or tips) that attach to the base edge using a shank or adapter system, concentrating the machine's force onto a single point for maximum penetration.
Hardware/Installation
Shanks/Adapters: The tooth (tip) slides onto a shank or adapter which is either welded or bolted onto the bucket lip.
Retention Hardware: The tooth is secured to the shank using a pin and lock mechanism (like a side pin, diagonal pin, or top pin). A pin punch and hammer are typically used to insert or remove the pin and its corresponding retainer (lock or roll pin) during maintenance.
Hammerless Systems: Some modern systems use unique locking mechanisms (like a wedge or an oblong insert) that do not require hammering, improving safety and speed during changeouts.