1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective installation, operation, and maintenance of the FARWAY 4350449 Travel Motor, Final Drive, designed for Airman AX40-2 Mini Excavators. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any procedures to ensure proper function and longevity of the product.

Figure 1.1: The FARWAY 4350449 Travel Motor, Final Drive unit. This image shows the complete assembly of the travel motor, highlighting its robust construction and connection points.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with heavy machinery components. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or damage to equipment.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots, when handling or installing the travel motor.
- Lifting and Handling: The travel motor is heavy (approximately 130 pounds). Use proper lifting equipment and techniques to prevent injury. Ensure the lifting apparatus has adequate capacity.
- Hydraulic System Safety: Be aware of high-pressure hydraulic fluid. Depressurize the hydraulic system of the excavator before disconnecting any lines. Hydraulic fluid under pressure can penetrate skin, causing severe injury.
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean work environment. Contaminants can damage hydraulic components.
- Professional Installation: Installation should ideally be performed by qualified personnel with experience in heavy equipment repair.
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of the travel motor. Refer to your Airman AX40-2 Mini Excavator's service manual for specific removal and installation procedures.
- Preparation:
- Park the excavator on level ground and engage the parking brake.
- Lower all attachments to the ground.
- Turn off the engine and remove the key.
- Depressurize the hydraulic system.
- Clean the area around the existing travel motor to prevent contamination.
- Removal of Old Unit:
- Drain the final drive oil from the old unit.
- Disconnect hydraulic lines, capping them immediately to prevent contamination.
- Remove mounting bolts securing the travel motor to the excavator frame.
- Carefully lift and remove the old travel motor using appropriate lifting equipment.
- Installation of New Unit:
- Inspect the mounting surface on the excavator for cleanliness and damage.
- Carefully lower the new FARWAY 4350449 travel motor into position, ensuring proper alignment.
- Secure the motor with the mounting bolts, tightening them to the manufacturer's specified torque (refer to excavator manual).
- Reconnect hydraulic lines, ensuring all connections are clean and tight. Use new O-rings if necessary.
- Fill the final drive with the recommended type and quantity of gear oil (refer to excavator manual).
- Post-Installation Checks:
- Check all hydraulic connections for leaks.
- Start the excavator and slowly operate the travel function in both directions to bleed air from the hydraulic system.
- Recheck the final drive oil level after initial operation and top up if necessary.

Figure 3.1: Different perspectives of FARWAY travel motors. This image illustrates the various angles and components of similar travel motor units, aiding in visual identification during installation.
4. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the FARWAY 4350449 Travel Motor operates as an integral part of your Airman AX40-2 Mini Excavator's drive system. No specific operational controls are associated directly with the travel motor itself beyond the excavator's standard travel levers/pedals.
- Ensure the excavator's hydraulic system is at the correct operating temperature before heavy use.
- Avoid sudden starts, stops, or changes in direction at high speeds, as this can put undue stress on the travel motor and final drive components.
- Regularly monitor the excavator's gauges for any abnormal readings, such as high hydraulic fluid temperature.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance extends the life of your travel motor and ensures optimal performance.
- Final Drive Oil Checks: Check the final drive oil level regularly (e.g., every 250 operating hours or as per excavator manual). Ensure the oil is clean and free of contaminants.
- Final Drive Oil Changes: Change the final drive oil according to the excavator manufacturer's recommendations (typically every 1000-2000 operating hours or annually). Use only recommended gear oil.
- Leak Inspection: Periodically inspect the travel motor and hydraulic lines for any signs of leaks. Address leaks immediately to prevent fluid loss and potential damage.
- Mounting Bolt Torque: Periodically check the torque of the mounting bolts to ensure they remain tight.
- Cleanliness: Keep the exterior of the travel motor clean to prevent dirt and debris from entering seals or affecting heat dissipation.
6. Troubleshooting
This section outlines common issues and potential solutions related to the travel motor. For complex issues, consult a qualified technician.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Excavator not moving or moving slowly | Low hydraulic fluid level; Clogged hydraulic filter; Faulty hydraulic pump; Travel motor internal issue; Obstruction in tracks. | Check hydraulic fluid level and top up; Replace hydraulic filter; Inspect hydraulic pump (professional assistance recommended); Consult technician for travel motor diagnosis; Clear any obstructions. |
| Unusual noise from travel motor | Low or contaminated final drive oil; Worn bearings; Internal damage to gears. | Check and change final drive oil; Professional inspection required for internal components. |
| Oil leakage from travel motor | Damaged seals; Loose connections; Cracked casing. | Inspect and replace damaged seals; Tighten connections; Repair or replace casing if cracked (professional assistance recommended). |
| Overheating of travel motor | Low hydraulic fluid; Contaminated hydraulic fluid; Overloading the excavator; Internal friction. | Check hydraulic fluid level and quality; Reduce load; Professional diagnosis for internal issues. |
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | FARWAY |
| Part Number | 4350449 |
| Compatible Excavator Model | Airman AX40-2 Mini Excavator |
| Item Weight | 130 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 18 x 16 x 16 inches |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| ASIN | B0CMFBSH6Y |
| Date First Available | November 2, 2023 |
8. Warranty and Support
The FARWAY 4350449 Travel Motor comes with a 3-month warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and material faults under normal use and service.
For warranty claims, technical support, or inquiries regarding the product, please contact your point of purchase or the FARWAY customer service department. When contacting support, please have your purchase details and the product's ASIN (B0CMFBSH6Y) ready.
Note: This warranty does not cover damage caused by improper installation, misuse, neglect, unauthorized modifications, or normal wear and tear.