How Clay Soil Impacts Heavy Equipment and How to Prevent It

Clay soils present unique challenges on the jobsite. Unlike sandy or loamy soils, clay is dense, sticky, and highly moisture-sensitive. For contractors, that means equipment isn’t just working harder, it’s also exposed to greater risks of wear, downtime, and inefficiency if not properly maintained.

Here’s a closer look at the additional impacts clay soil can have on your machines, and what you can do to minimize them.

1. Increased Resistance and Power Demand

Clay is heavier and more cohesive than other soil types, creating additional resistance against buckets, blades, and undercarriages. Machines must work harder to dig, push, or load, which leads to:

Higher fuel consumption
Greater engine and hydraulic system strain
Reduced overall efficiency

Matching the right attachments to the job and monitoring load capacity helps reduce unnecessary stress.

2. Undercarriage Wear and Packing

One of the most common issues in clay soil is material packing into undercarriage components. Wet clay sticks to rollers, tracks, and sprockets, hardens as it dries, and accelerates wear. Over time, this can lead to:

Misalignment of tracks
Premature component failure
Costly downtime for cleaning and repairs

Frequent cleaning and use of track guards can help keep undercarriages clear and extend lifespan. For excavators, pay special attention to rollers and idlers, which are most prone to clay buildup.

3. Slippage and Traction Loss

When saturated, clay becomes slick and unstable, reducing traction and causing machines to spin, slip, or bog down. This increases:

Tire wear on wheeled equipment
Risk of getting stuck and requiring recovery
Uneven loads and stress on drivetrains

Using wider tracks or specialized tires can improve flotation and grip in clay-heavy sites. Planning haul roads with gravel topping or mats can also reduce downtime from bogged machines.

4. Hydraulic and Cooling System Stress

Because clay adds resistance, hydraulic systems often operate at higher pressures and temperatures. Extended operation under these conditions can:

Shorten fluid life
Increase risk of overheating
Lead to component fatigue

Stick to fluid change intervals, monitor temps, and ensure cooling systems are free of debris. Adding auxiliary coolers or monitoring software can be especially valuable in high-resistance jobs.

5. Increased Cleaning and Maintenance Needs

Clay doesn’t just wash off easily. It clings to machines, dries hard, and can trap moisture in critical areas, leading to corrosion and long-term damage. Routine pressure washing, greasing, and inspections are essential to:

Prevent rust and buildup
Keep joints, seals, and bearings protected
Ensure sensors and electronics remain functional

Schedule more frequent washdowns and inspections during clay season. Use rust-preventative sprays in vulnerable areas and inspect wiring and electronics after major projects. Pay special attention to areas around the undercarriage, cooling system, and electrical harnesses where clay tends to accumulate.

Protecting Your Investment in Clay Conditions

Operating in clay soils is unavoidable for many contractors, but the extra wear and tear doesn’t have to shorten machine life. The key is recognizing the added impacts and proactively maintaining your equipment. With improved cleaning routines, the right attachments, and regular monitoring, you can protect both your bottom line and your fleet.

Clay soil can beat up even the toughest equipment, but a smart maintenance strategy can keep machines productive longer. We’re here to help you get the most from your fleet, whether that’s through the right machine selection, genuine Volvo parts, or expert service support.

Reach Out Today!