Hydraulic Troubleshooting: What You Need to Know

Do you know what to do if you suspect you need hydraulic repair in Minnesota? Where should you start? What troubleshooting should you do to determine the problem? If you need a bit of guidance, the following tips are for you.

These are the basics you need to know as you get started with hydraulic repair in Minnesota. If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to call for backup from a trusted hydraulic repair service in Minnesota.

Basic Functions

First, you must understand the basic function of the various hydraulic components. Troubleshooting will be impossible if you don’t know these functions or how to identify each component. Valves may look similar but perform entirely different functions. Pumps may be in good condition but misdiagnosed due to common issues. To be able to successfully troubleshoot hydraulic repair in Minnesota, first learn all the parts to the system and what they do.

Troubleshooting Procedures

Once you know how the system operates and how each part contributes to the process, you can begin to troubleshoot for hydraulic repairs in Minnesota. You should start by becoming familiar with two common troubleshooting procedures.

First, learn how to determine if a pump needs hydraulic repair in Minnesota. To test a pump, check the oil flow from the case drain line. To do so, direct the flow of the hose into a container and time the flow for 60 seconds. If there is a flow rate of one to three percent of the maximum volume, the pump is okay.

The second common test is to check the accumulator. To test the operation of this component, you can use one of three methods. For the first process, turn off the pump and allow the pressure to reduce to zero. Then, install a charging rig with a gauge on the Schrader valve. Read the gauge to determine the nitrogen pre-charge. For the second method, after turning off the pump, watch the pressure gauge. This should gradually drop, then speed up as it approaches zero. Where the needle starts to rapidly drop is the pre-charge pressure. The third method involves using an infrared camera or a temperature gun. Use one of these tools to check the sides of the accumulator shell. If the pre-charge is correct, the lower half of the shell should be warmer than the upper.

System Adjustments

Troubleshooting and hydraulic repair in Minnesota further requires a knowledge of how to properly adjust the system. Random valve adjustments and control cranking will result in more damage than good. You must be trained in the precise setting of pressure reducing valves, pump compensators, relief valves and pre-charging accumulators. With this knowledge, you will be able to make the right adjustments for hydraulic repair.

Hydraulic Symbols

You should never attempt hydraulic repair in Minnesota without first gaining an understanding of hydraulic symbols. One small symbol can tell a trained technician five or more things about the component. Often, one small letter or number difference can make a huge difference in what the component does and how it will affect the entire system. You can’t simply base troubleshooting and repairs on what the part looks like. You must be able to read the symbols to have a more in-depth understanding of the part.

Learn More

Need additional insight or assistance? The experts at M & M Hydraulic Company bring over 95 years of combined experience to the table. We repair and monitor hydraulic equipment to ensure peak level operation by servicing components such as hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic jacks and more. Contact our team today!

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