The hydraulic system is an essential component of what keeps your tractor running properly. We rely on the hydraulic system to power attachments, lift and operate implements, and utilize power steering. When the system is compromised it can lead to several problems, from minor hiccups to severe cases of hydraulic failure.
While proper maintenance can prevent many issues and save you significant time and hassle, sometimes problems still arise. In this blog, we will explore some common issues you may encounter with your hydraulic equipment and where you can find repair in Indiana.
Before we get into the problems you can face with your tractor’s hydraulic system, let’s take a closer look at all of its components and the role they play.
Hydraulic Pump: The hydraulic pump plays a crucial role in the system's overall function by pumping hydraulic fluid throughout the system. This enables it to build enough pressure to power the transmission.
Cylinders and Pistons: Cylinders and pistons work together to convert the fluid's pressure into mechanical movement, driving the various implements and attachments.
Valves and Controllers: The valve’s purpose is to guide the fluid while the controllers allow the operator to manage the fluid movement precisely, ensuring smooth operation.
Fluid Reservoir: This component stores the hydraulic fluid, ensuring enough supply for the system to function properly.
Hydraulic Fluid: The hydraulic fluid is what keeps everything running smoothly, transmitting pressure, regulating temperature, and minimizing friction.
The key components must work together in harmony for proper functioning. When one part is worn or damaged it can lead to issues. Here are the most common:
System leaks or condensation from weather changes can lead to one of the most common reasons for hydraulic failure, water contamination. A clear sign of water contamination is when your hydraulic fluid has a milky appearance. This type of contamination can cause damage over time by reducing fluid lubrication and degrading several components.
Your system can also be compromised due to air contamination. There are two types of air contamination: aeration and cavitation. Aeration occurs when air enters the pump from an outside source. This can be caused by a leak on the inlet side of the pump. One way to identify this is a loud knocking noise caused by the compression and decompression of air. Cavitation, on the other hand, can happen when a vacuum bubble forms in the pump causing it to implode. When this is happening, you might hear a whining and banging sound which is the creation and collapse of the bubble.
When your hydraulic system fails to regulate its temperature it can become overheated. This can be caused by a number of factors including excessive workload, damaged or worn parts, or a high-duty cycle. Too hot of a temperature can lead to fluid thinning which prevents lubrication and fluid oxidation which causes buildup.
Monitoring your fluid levels is something you should never skip during maintenance checks. Unbalanced fluid levels can affect your system performance and lead to failure. Low fluid levels and poor filtration can cause air contamination. It is also necessary to use the correct oil for your application. There are plenty of options that can help prevent certain problems such as wear, temperature changes, and contamination.
If your hydraulic system requires more than a simple DIY repair, it’s best to take it to the professionals. At Koenig Equipment in Indiana, we have a full staff of certified technicians trained to service equipment like yours. Our technicians stay up to date on the latest technology and practices to service your equipment efficiently.
Schedule an appointment online or call your nearest dealer to get in touch with our service department today.