Before You Start
Gather the required tools based on how your sensor base is attached:
Tool | Purpose |
19 mm open-end wrench | Hold the base in place during sensor removal |
40 mm open-end wrench | Loosen and remove the sensor from the base |
Hammer or mallet | Remove a base attached with adhesive |
5 mm Allen key | Remove a base attached with a screw |
Important: Before you start, identify whether your sensor base is attached with adhesive or with a screw. The base removal procedure differs depending on the attachment type.
Step 1 — Remove the Sensor from the Base
1. Hold the base with the 19 mm wrench
Place the 19 mm open-end wrench on the sensor base and hold it firmly. This prevents the base from spinning when you loosen the sensor, and protects the attachment point (adhesive or screw).
2. Position the 40 mm wrench on the sensor
Place the 40 mm open-end wrench on the hexagonal metal surface of the Smart Trac sensor.
3. Turn the sensor counterclockwise
With the base held in place, turn the 40 mm wrench counterclockwise until the sensor comes loose from the base.
4. Remove the sensor
Once loosened, unscrew the sensor by hand. Place it on a clean, secure surface.
Expected result: The sensor is now separated from the base. The base remains attached to the equipment.
Step 2 — Remove the Base from the Equipment
Follow the procedure that matches your base attachment type.
Option A: Base attached with adhesive
Position the hammer or mallet against the side of the base.
Tap the side of the base with light, controlled strikes.
Gradually increase the force until the base begins to come loose.
Remove the base by hand once it detaches.
Important: Always start with light taps. Do not apply heavy force on the first strike.
Warning: Avoid hitting sensitive parts of the equipment. On fragile surfaces, such as aluminum or cast iron housings, proceed with extra care to avoid cracks or deformation.
Option B: Screw attached base
Insert the 5 mm Allen key into the base mounting screw.
Turn the Allen key counterclockwise.
Continue turning until the base is fully released.
Remove the base from the equipment.
Expected result: The base is removed from the equipment. The surface is ready for a new base or sensor.
Tip for Frequent Replacements
If your team frequently swaps sensors on the same equipment, request additional bases from the Tractian team and keep them pre-installed at your monitoring points. This eliminates the need to remove the base every time you swap a sensor and reduces maintenance downtime.
Common Issues
Symptom | Likely cause | Solution |
Adhesive base won't come off with light taps | High-strength industrial adhesive | Gradually increase the force of your strikes. If it still won't release, contact support |
Base spins together with the sensor | The 19 mm wrench isn't holding the base | Reposition the 19 mm wrench and apply firm pressure before turning the sensor |
If the issue persists after trying the solutions above, contact Tractian support.