Handling Gas Spring The gas springs are located at the engine hood (left, right: two places) and the cab roof (left, right: two places). The diagram below shows the gas spring on the left side of the engine hood. Precautions when using Never disassemble. The gas springs are charged with pressurized nitrogen gas, so it is extremely dangerous to disassemble them. Never dispose of them in fire. The nitrogen gas in the gas springs is not flammable, but if a gas spring is thrown into fire, the high temperatures will cause softening and breakage of the seals and rod guide and when the gas inside the tube expands, there is danger that it may burst and spray out oil.
If there is any leakage of oil or gas, stop use immediately and contact your Komatsu distributor or place of purchase. If the gas pressure goes down, there is danger that it will be unable to hold the hood. Precautions when discarding When disposing of a gas spring, do not throw it into fire. Fix the gas spring securely in a horizontal position to a boring machine. Drill 2 or 3 mm (0.079 or 0.118 in) diameter holes at a position 20 mm to 30 mm (0.8 in to 1.2 in) from the end face at the tube bracket end to release the gas before disposing of the gas spring.
When doing this, there is danger that the internal oil, metal filings, or the internal pressurized gas may cause things to fly, so always wear safety glasses when carrying out the operation. Before disposing of the gas spring, retract the rod and check that it cannot extend, and check also that the internal gas has been completely released. Personnel Only authorized personnel can service and repair the machine. Do not allow unauthorized personnel into the area. If necessary, employ an observer. PC200LC-8 1-37