Do you have a loader with a hydraulic steering cylinder problem? Maybe your log splitter is making funny noises. Here are some common hydraulic problems you may face in the agricultural industry, along with some possible solutions.
Fluid Leaks
No one wants to look under a piece of equipment and see a puddle of hydraulic oil. However, this can happen to anyone at any given time. It’s important to take care of leaks as soon as possible to avoid serious trouble. In some cases, you may only need to tighten down a fitting or two.
Look to see if there is a problem with a hose. Hoses should not be stiff and brittle and if so, there may be cracks in them which are difficult to detect. When in doubt, replace old hoses when you change fluid and filter.
Look to see if relief valves are the source of your leak. If fluid appears to be coming from your hydraulic steering cylinder, you may need to replace the cylinder or the seals.
Funny Noises
If you notice unusual sounds while operating your equipment, something may be wrong. Many strange sounds develop when air gets into the system. In fact, it can cause some cylinders to make loud knocking or banging sounds as the air becomes compressed and then decompressed. If you notice odd noises and the fluid appears foamy, you almost certainly have a problem with air in your system. Air can enter in a number of ways.
Air can cause your fluid to break down quickly and lose its ability to lubricate. This can contribute to premature damage and wear to seals, causing fluid leaks.
Check to see if the fluid reservoir is low. If so, you probably have a leak and air is getting sucked into the system. Go over the entire system and tighten clamps, and fittings.
Knocking can also be caused by a problem known as “cavitation”. This happens when not enough fluid is being supplied to a component. It makes the pressure fall lower than the fluid vapor pressure. This actually creates spaces or cavities within the fluid, and when they get compressed they implode, resulting in the “knock” sound you hear.
If not corrected, cavitation can cause contaminated fluid and premature wear on parts. If an intake line becomes restricted or a filter is clogged, this may result in cavitation. Check to see if any lines have collapsed and replace them. This includes hydraulic steering cylinder lines also.
