by John Kelly | Oct 8, 2017
An oil filter can be mounted on the suction line or pressure line. We recommend mounting on the return line (between valve outlet and reservoir) so you do not restrict your suction line, and so a finer filter can be used. Strainers are often used in the suction line,...
by John Kelly | Oct 8, 2017
On an open center system oil can flow through the valve when it is in neutral. These systems normally use gear pumps or vane pumps. When the valve is in neutral system pressure is close to zero. On a closed center system the oil flow will be blocked when the valve is...
by John Kelly | Oct 8, 2017
Use the oil recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Most systems use AW32 (light viscosity) or AW46 (medium viscosity) hydraulic oil. Cheap hydraulic oil is not cheap when your system overheats and your pump is ruined!
by John Kelly | Oct 8, 2017
The filter should be changed when the pressure drop through it reaches 10 – 15 PSI. Lacking an indicator, the rule of thumb is every 6 months to a year, depending on use. The oil should be changed if it starts to turn milky (due to water contamination), starts...
by John Kelly | Oct 8, 2017
Overheating is one of the 2 most common causes of hydraulic system failure (the other is contamination). How hot is too hot? If the reservoir is so hot you can’t hold your hand on it, it’s probably too hot. 150°F is as hot as we recommend for the...
