Hydraulic - General
Before any troubleshooting is attempted, become fully acquainted with the following two (2)
basic fundamental facts of a hydraulic system:
1. SPEED The speed of a hydraulic function is directly related to the system flow. A
reduction in speed of a cylinder or motor is caused by an insufficient quantity of oil
being delivered to the component.
2. POWER The power or force of a hydraulic function is related to pressure.
If an understanding of the differences between speed and power of a hydraulic system is
under- stood correctly, then accurate troubleshooting can be accomplished in a minimum
amount of time.
NEVER resort to increasing the valve relief pressure in an attempt to cure the ills
of the system. Fully diagnose the problem.
Hydraulic components are precision units and their continued smooth operation depends
on proper care. Therefore, do not neglect hydraulic systems. Keep them clean and change
the oil and oil filter at established intervals.
If, in spite of these precautions, improper opera- tion does occur, the cause can generally
be traced to one of the following:
1. Use of the wrong viscosity or type of oil.
2. Insufficient fluid in the system.
3. Presence of air in the system.
4. Mechanical damage or structural failure.
5. Internal or external leakage.
6. Dirt, decomposed packing, water, sludge, rust, etc., in the system.
7. Improper adjustments.
8. Oil cooler plugged, dirty or leaking.
Whenever hydraulic, fuel, lubricating oil lines, or air lines are to be disconnected, clean the
adjacent area as well as the point of disconnect. As soon disconnected, cap, plug or tape
each line or opening to prevent the entry of foreign material. The same recommendations
for cleaning and covering apply when access covers or inspection plates are removed.
Clean and inspect all parts. Be sure all passages and holes are open. Cover all parts to
keep them clean. Be sure parts are clean when they are installed. Leave new parts in their
containers until ready for assembly.
Clean the preservative compound from all machined surfaces of new parts before installing
them.
RT500
Troubleshooting
204 REVISED: