How to Install Excavator Tooth Pins Properly (Step-by-Step Guide)

In our previous blogs, we talked about why excavator tooth pins fall out and how often they should be replaced. But here’s the thing — even the best-quality pin will fail if it’s not installed properly.

So today, let’s go over something every operator and mechanic should know:
How to correctly install excavator tooth pins to ensure a firm, long-lasting connection between the bucket tooth and adapter.

Whether you’re working with CAT, Komatsu, Hitachi, Volvo, Doosan, or Hyundai machines, this step-by-step guide will help you get it right the first time.

1. Preparation: Safety and Tools

Before you start, make sure your excavator is parked on level ground and the bucket is securely supported. You don’t want any sudden movement when you’re working on it.

You’ll need:

• A hammer or mallet

• Cleaning brush or cloth

• Lubricant (optional, for easy pin insertion)

• New excavator tooth pin and lock that match your machine model

👉 Quick Tip: If you’re unsure about compatibility, check our previous article — “How to Choose the Right Excavator Tooth Pin for Your Machine” — or contact our team at Nan’an Jinxin Machinery Co., Ltd. for assistance.

2. Clean the Tooth and Adapter

This step is often skipped, but it’s actually crucial.
Dirt, mud, or rust inside the adapter’s hole can prevent the pin from seating properly.

Use a brush or rag to clean the hole and check for any damage or wear on the adapter and tooth.
If you notice irregular edges or deformation, it might be time to replace those parts first — otherwise, your new pin won’t lock tightly.

3. Align the Holes

Once everything is clean, position the tooth onto the adapter and align the holes perfectly.
Even a small misalignment can make it difficult to insert the pin and may damage it when you hammer it in.

If your pin keeps getting stuck halfway, don’t force it — that’s a sign your alignment is off.

4. Insert the Locking Pin

Now comes the key part: inserting the excavator tooth pin.
Slide it gently through the holes until it reaches the lock. If your system uses a rubber or spring lock, make sure the pin goes through the center properly.

Use a hammer to tap the pin lightly until it’s firmly seated.
Don’t over-hammer! That can bend the pin and reduce its holding strength — something we mentioned in our earlier blog on “Why Excavator Tooth Pins Keep Falling Out.”

5. Double Check the Locking Mechanism

After installation, tug on the tooth slightly to make sure it’s firmly locked in place.
The tooth should not move or wobble. If it does, remove the pin and recheck alignment or lock position.

At Jinxin Machinery, every tooth pin we produce goes through precise machining and tolerance inspection, ensuring a snug, stable fit that’s easy to install.

6. Test Before Operation

Once all pins are installed, run the excavator slowly for a few minutes and observe.
Listen for unusual vibration or noise near the bucket. If everything feels solid, you’re good to go!

It’s also a great idea to recheck the pins after the first few hours of digging — especially if they’re newly installed.

7. After-Sales Support from Jinxin Machinery

At Nan’an Jinxin Machinery Co., Ltd., we don’t just sell parts — we support our customers from installation to maintenance.

If your pins are not fitting properly or you’re facing frequent tooth loss, our after-sales team can analyze the issue and recommend the right model or installation method.

We’ve helped many operators from the U.S., India, and Southeast Asia solve recurring tooth pin issues — saving both time and repair costs.

So, don’t hesitate to reach out; we’ve got your back!

8. Pro Tips for Long-Term Maintenance

To make your excavator tooth pins last longer:

• Inspect them every 250 working hours.

• Clean the locking area regularly.

• Replace both tooth and pin together.

• Always choose heat-treated alloy steel pins from reliable manufacturers (like us!).

Small efforts here can prevent big downtime later.

Proper installation of excavator tooth pins ensures your excavator operates safely and efficiently.
By following these simple steps and choosing high-quality pins from Jinxin Machinery, you’ll minimize maintenance issues and keep your machine working at peak performance.