My Magic Spray Paint For Hydraulic Troubleshooting

heatgunThis question from one of our members is relevant to all hydraulic machine owners and users:

“What is the most effective and efficient method to diagnose internal leakage on mobile construction equipment; e.g Backhoe or Skid Steer Loader — WITHOUT the aid of diagnostic tools, such as pressure gauges and flow meters.”

It’s not a bad question. But upon deeper … Read more

The Conflict Between Pump or Motor Case Pressure and Contamination Control

Cracked pump housing -- installer FORGOT to connect the case drain line!

My previous blog-post featured this picture of a cracked, piston-pump housing. One of our members made the comment that for this to happen, the pump’s rotating group would have to have failed and come apart in a spectacular way. Not so. And based on my long experience in the hydraulics repair biz, such an event being the cause of a … Read more

How To Avoid ‘Infant Mortality’ Failure of Hydraulic Components

IMG_3216A checklist is a simple ‘tool’ that serves a very important function: to INFORM and REMIND. In so doing, mistakes or omissions resulting from ignorance and/or memory lapse — and which can easily result in the rapid destruction of a hydraulic component — can be prevented.

For example, here’s an instructive story sent to me by Hydraulics Pro Club member … Read more