Testing
The most effective method for isolating problems in the hydraulic system is by using hydraulic test equipment such as pressure gauges and flow meters in the circuits during various operational checks (See the Special Tools section in this Chapter).
Before Performing Hydraulic Tests
IMPORTANT: All obvious areas such as oil supply, filter, binding linkages, loose fasteners or improper adjustments must be checked before assuming that a hydraulic component is the source of the problem.
Precautions for Hydraulic Testing
CAUTION
Failure to use gauges with recommended pres- sure (PSI) rating as listed in test procedures could result in damage to the gauge and possible personal injury from leaking hot oil.
CAUTION
All testing should be performed by two (2) people. One person should be in the seat to oper- ate the machine and the other should read and record test results.
CAUTION
Operate all hydraulic controls to relieve system pressure and avoid injury from pressurized hy- draulic oil. Controls must be operated with the ignition switch in OFF. Remove key from the igni- tion switch.
WARNING
Keep body and hands away from pin hole leaks or nozzles that eject hydraulic fluid under high pressure. Do not use hands to search for leaks; use paper or cardboard. Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate the skin and cause serious injury. If fluid is injected into the skin, it must be surgically removed within a few hours by a doctor familiar with this type of injury. Gan- grene may result from such an injury.
WARNING
Before disconnecting or performing any work on the hydraulic system, all pressure in the system must be relieved and all rotating ma- chine parts must be stopped. Stop engine; lower or support attachments.
1.Clean machine thoroughly before disconnecting or disassembling any hydraulic components. Always keep in mind the need for cleanliness when working on hy- draulic equipment. Contamination will cause excessive wear of hydraulic components.
2.Put metal caps or plugs on any hydraulic lines left open or exposed during testing or removal of compo- nents.
3.The engine must be in good operating condition. Use a phototac when performing a hydraulic test. Engine speed can affect the accuracy of the tester readings. Check actual speed of the pump when performing flow testing.
4.The inlet and the outlet hoses for tester with pressure and flow capabilities must be properly connected and not reversed to prevent damage to the hydraulic tester or components.
5.When using hydraulic tester with pressure and flow capabilities, open load valve completely in the tester to minimize the possibility of damaging components.
6.Install fittings finger tight and far enough to make sure that they are not
7.Position tester hoses to prevent rotating machine parts from contacting and damaging the hoses or tester.
8.Check oil level in the hydraulic reservoir. After con- necting test equipment, make sure tank is full.
9.Check control linkages for improper adjustment, binding or broken parts.
10.After installing test gauges, run engine at low speed and check for any hydraulic oil leaks.
11.All hydraulic tests should be made with the hydraulic oil at normal operating temperature.
12.Before returning machine to use, make sure that hy- draulic reservoir has correct fluid level. Also, check for hydraulic leaks after test equipment has been removed from hydraulic system.
Hydraulic System
Groundsmaster | Page 4 | Hydraulic System |
