Things Your Need To Know When Maintaining Your Hydraulic System

Posted on: 14 December 2019

Hydraulic systems develop a lot of pressure as they work. While there are different kinds of hydraulic systems in use for many different purposes, they share the same need for maintenance to continue running correctly. There some basic tasks that you need to do no matter what the system is used for if you want it to keep working correctly. 

Inspect the System and Connections

Every time you start your hydraulic system, you need to inspect the parts of the system for leaks or problems that could cause a failure. For example, the hydraulic seals in the system can dry out over time and allow the oil to leak past them. Air can then enter the system and cause problems in the pump or hydraulic lines. 

Check the joints where the lines or hoses meat the pump and rams for leaks or signs that they may not be working correctly. If you find a leak in the system, replace the seal or fitting right away so that there is no damage to the system.

Check the Oil Level

Before you use any hydraulic based system, you need to check the oil level in the tank. If you operate equipment that uses hydraulics to turn or control the movement of an accessory, failure during operation can cause a big problem. Take a minute before you begin working with the equipment to open the oil tanks and check the dipstick for the proper amount of oil. If the hydraulic oil is low, filling the tank with the right type of oil will keep the machine working and can prevent damage from the pump running dry. 

It is critical to use the proper oil for the system, so if you are not sure what you should add, check the owner's manual or ask a professional about it. Some oils do not mix well, and getting the right weight and viscosity for the system is essential to its operation.

Replacements Seals, Hoses, and Other parts

When it comes to maintaining your hydraulic system, using parts from the manufacturer of the equipment is essential. The OEM parts are going to fit correctly and make replacing parts easier, saving time and money in the long run. If you can not get parts from the manufacturer for some reason, an aftermarket replacement part will work, but it is critical that you make sure you have the right part for the job. 

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