How to Bulldoze Mud

Bulldozing requires precision movement of a large vehicle.

Efficient bulldozing is a complicated job that can take years to learn. It takes a lot of skill to use a large machine to flatten an area without cutting it too deep or too shallow anywhere. Despite the difficulty in operating the machinery with such precision, some core concepts are very simple.

Instructions

1. Aim straight at the dump whenever possible. This prevents the bulldozer from turning while carrying material, and minimizes the amount of mud it will lose when the turn is made. It also prevents wear on the steering components from rotating the bulldozer under a heavy load.

2. Bulldoze downhill whenever possible so the weight of the bulldozer helps move the mud. If you push uphill then the bulldozer has to move its own weight and that of the mud. If the dump is above where the mud is being removed, then break the ground while moving downhill and push the loose mud back up the hill.

3. Dig slots with about one third of a blade width between them. This maximizes the amount of material the bulldozer can carry by preventing mud from slipping around the sides of the blade. Once the slots are finished, the center can be removed quite easily. Don't use slots if you're dozing on the flat because the push may be too long and the bulldozer could become stuck.

4. Move slowly and methodically to avoid slippage and stalls. Traction means the bulldozer is operating at its most efficient level. Sudden movements can cause the bulldozer to lose traction and stop or jerk into the mud, causing loss of material and a rutted surface.

5. Keep the blade full as much as possible. A full blade is easier to manage than a partially full one. If you find the blade is not full when it should be then reverse and add more material on the pass.

Tips & Warnings

• Bulldozers are very powerful. Always make sure there is no-one around while you are working and make sure the path in front is clear of anything you aren't prepared to move.

References

• Integrated Publishing: Bulldozer Operating Techniques
• Logging-On: Bulldozer Techniques to Improve Efficiency