Undo The Winter Damage: How To Get Your Hydraulic Equipment Ready For Spring
Winter may be in full swing right now, but spring will be here in just a few short months. When it arrives, you'll need to be prepared for some hydraulic maintenance. Your hydraulic equipment has been exposed to severe weather all winter long, which means it will be ready for some much-needed attention. Here are four steps you need to take to help your hydraulic equipment recover from the long, cold winter:
Change the Fluid
If you've been using your hydraulic equipment all winter long, you'll need to change the fluid as soon as spring arrives. Your fluid may have become contaminated during the winter. Unfortunately, running contaminated fluid through your hydraulic equipment could lead to serious complications. Not only that, but the dirt and sediment could have sunk to the bottom of the pan, leaving a fine layer of debris that will need to be removed. To make sure your hydraulic equipment is ready for spring, change the fluid and clean the tank.
Inspect Seals and Hoses
If you've endured a severe winter, you'll need to inspect your hydraulic seals and hoses as soon as spring arrives. Cold weather can cause your seals and hoses to become dried and brittle. Unfortunately, once your seals and hoses become dry and brittle, they're more likely to fail during operation. To make sure your equipment is ready for spring, take a close look at the seals and hoses. If you see signs of damage, including cracks and curling, replace those components right away.
Test Your Pressure Gauges
If it's been several months since you tested your pressure gauges, spring is the perfect time to take care of that. Your pressure gauges should actually be tested at least twice a year to ensure maximum performance and to prevent accidents. Hydraulic equipment operates under high pressure. If the pressure gauges aren't working properly, excess pressure may build up, leading to a catastrophic malfunction. To prevent that, be sure to test your pressure gauges at least twice a year.
Clean Your Hydraulic Cylinders
Finally, now that winter is almost over, you'll need to make sure that you clean your hydraulic cylinders. You may assume that if your equipment is operating properly, you don't need to worry about the cylinders. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Dirty or contaminated cylinders can undermine the performance of your hydraulic equipment, which can lead to premature failure. To protect your equipment, take the time to clean your cylinders before spring arrives.
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