Everything You Need To Know About Hydraulic Leak Repair And Hydraulic Cylinder Replacement
As a tow truck owner or operator, you know that your hydraulic system is key to the success of your business. After all, it's what allows you to operate your boom, winch, and other essential equipment. So, what do you do when you develop a hydraulic leak? While it may seem daunting, hydraulic leak repair can be relatively simple. Here's what you need to know.
Troubleshoot and Repair A Hydraulic Leak
The first step in hydraulic leak repair is to identify the source of the leak. Visually inspect the system for any wet or greasy spots. When you locate the source of the leak, the next step is to clean the area around the area, which will allow you to get a better seal later when making the repair.
If the hydraulic fluid is leaking from a hose, you need to check the fittings to ensure they are tight. If they are loose, tighten them with a wrench. If they are tight, but the leak persists, chances are you will need to replace the hose. Hose replacement is relatively simple and can be done with basic hand tools.
If the leak is coming from a fitting or connection, simply tighten the fitting or connection with a wrench. However, if the fitting is stripped or damaged, it will need to be replaced. Depending on where the fitting is located, this may require special tools or equipment.
Finally, if the leak is coming from a seal or gasket, these will need to be replaced. Again, this may require special tools or equipment depending on where the seal or gasket is located. The good news is that seals and gaskets are relatively inexpensive and easy to find at most auto parts stores.
Replacing A Hydraulic Cylinder
In some cases, leaks just cannot be repaired, and replacement of the entire hydraulic cylinder is necessary. While this job is best left to professionals, a hydraulic cylinder replacement is fairly straightforward. First, your mechanic will remove any hoses or fittings attached to the cylinder and then remove the bolts that hold the cylinder in place to take it out of its housing.
To install the new cylinder, the mechanic simply reverses these steps. Hydraulic cylinder replacement requires new seals and gaskets where necessary. Once everything is back in place and tightened down, any air will be bled air out of the system according to your manufacturer's instructions.
Fixing a hydraulic leak and hydraulic cylinder replacement doesn't have to be difficult. With some basic knowledge and understanding of how your system works or a trusty mechanic, your tow truck can be back on the road in no time.
To learn more about hydraulic cylinder replacement, contact a company like Engineered Hydraulics Inc.