How to Troubleshoot and Repair Excavator Hydraulic Pumps

How to Troubleshoot and Repair Excavator Hydraulic Pumps

Table of Contents

How to Troubleshoot and Repair Excavator Hydraulic Pumps

A working excavator hydraulic pump helps your machine work well. If the pump is good, you get strong power and smooth movement. You might see problems like slow actions, weak lifting, or odd sounds if the pump has issues.

  • A good hydraulic pump gives strong pressure for hard work.

  • Fast hydraulic flow lets your boom, arm, and bucket move fast.

  • Taking care of the pump saves fuel and helps you get more done.

Learning simple excavator hydraulic pump repair skills can help you save money and keep your machine working.

Key Takeaways

  • Check your excavator’s hydraulic pump often for leaks. Listen for strange noises and look at fluid levels. Finding problems early stops bigger issues.

  • Always use the correct hydraulic fluid. Change filters when you should. This keeps your pump clean and working well.

  • Follow a step-by-step guide to take apart and put together your pump. This helps you not miss any important parts.

  • Buy important diagnostic tools like pressure gauges and flow meters. These tools help you find problems fast and correctly.

  • Think about hiring a professional for hard repairs. Their skills can save you time and keep your excavator working well.

Common Problems and Symptoms

Common Problems and Symptoms
Image Source: unsplash

Warning Signs

You can find hydraulic pump problems early if you pay attention. Watch for changes in how your excavator works. Many operators see these problems before the machine breaks down. Here are some warning signs you should notice:

  • Strange sounds like grinding or whining from the pump

  • The boom, arm, or bucket moves slowly

  • The hydraulic system gets too hot

  • The machine moves in a jumpy or uneven way

  • Hydraulic fluid leaks near the pump or hoses

  • You use more fluid than normal

  • The machine does not work as well as before

  • The power drops suddenly or slowly

  • The machine shakes too much when you use it

  • Dashboard warning lights turn on

Tip: If you hear weird sounds or see leaks, stop and check your excavator right away. Finding problems early can stop bigger hydraulic pump troubles.

Causes

Hydraulic pump failure often happens because of mechanical or environmental reasons. Knowing these reasons helps you stop future breakdowns. Here are the most common causes of hydraulic pump problems:

  • Water gets in from leaks or condensation

  • The fluid gets too hot, over 180°F (82°C)

  • Using the wrong oil or mixing fluids

  • Cavitation happens when air bubbles form in the fluid

  • The pump works with too much pressure

  • Bad filtration and not enough maintenance

  • Air or water gets inside the system

  • Blocked suction lines cause inlet cavitation

  • Tough working conditions like heat, cold, or dust

Note: High heat can hurt seals and break down fluid faster. Cold weather makes fluid thick and hard to move, which causes more problems.

If you know these common causes of hydraulic pump failure, you can protect your equipment and keep your excavator working well.

Troubleshooting Steps

Initial Checks

When you start diagnosing hydraulic pump issues, you should look for simple signs first. These checks help you spot problems before they get worse. Here are some things you can do right away:

  • Look for leaks around the pump and hoses. Leaks often show up as wet spots or puddles under your excavator.

  • Listen for banging or knocking sounds. These noises can mean air is trapped in the system or the pump is struggling.

  • Check the temperature of the hydraulic fluid. If it feels too hot, the system may be overheating, which can damage seals and fluid.

  • Watch for weak movement in the final drive motor. If the motor feels slow or weak, you might have low hydraulic fluid pressure.

Tip: If you notice any leaks or hear strange sounds, stop the machine and check the system. Quick action can prevent bigger problems.

Regular inspections help you catch issues early. You should always act fast if you see leaks or if the system overheats.

System Tests

After your initial checks, you can use system tests to find deeper problems. These tests help you with hydraulic pump troubleshooting and show if the pump or other parts need repair.

  • Use a pressure monitoring system to watch for drops in pressure. Low pressure can mean a failing pump or leaks.

  • Install temperature sensors to keep track of fluid heat. High temperatures can point to blocked lines or worn parts.

  • Analyze the hydraulic fluid for dirt or water. Contaminated fluid can cause pump damage.

  • Use a flow meter to measure how much fluid moves through the system. Low flow rates can show internal wear or leaks.

  • Try a vibration analyzer to check for worn or damaged pump parts.

  • Run a leak test with a hydraulic leak detector. This tool helps you find leaks that are hard to see.

Note: Always follow safety rules when testing the system. Wear gloves and eye protection to keep yourself safe.

These steps make it easier to find the cause of pump problems. By using the right tools and tests, you can keep your excavator running smoothly.

Excavator Hydraulic Pump Repair

Excavator Hydraulic Pump Repair
Image Source: pexels

Fixing your excavator hydraulic pump helps your machine stay strong. You can use a step-by-step guide so you do not skip anything important. This part gives you easy steps for taking apart, cleaning, checking, replacing, and putting the pump back together.

Disassembly and Cleaning

First, disconnect the hydraulic pump from your excavator. Always turn off the engine before you start. Release any pressure in the hydraulic system. Use a hydraulic pump diagram to find each part. This helps you avoid mistakes.

Here are the steps to take the pump apart safely:

  1. Take off the regulator by unscrewing the bolts.

  2. Remove the valve plate by taking out the bolts.

  3. Lift the protective cover, but leave the adjustment screws alone.

  4. Pull out the compensating part with springs and rod.

  5. Remove the pilot cover and spring.

  6. Take out the spring seat, return spring, and bushing.

  7. Remove the adjusting plug and fulcrum plug.

  8. Take out the lever, but keep the latch attached.

  9. Pull out the plug and feedback lever with a thin iron bar.

  10. Remove the pilot piston and spool valve.

  11. Last, take out the piston cover, compensation piston, and correction rod.

Clean every part with mineral oil or special hydraulic cleaner. Use a spray gun or brush for cleaning. Do not spray seals and bearings directly. Dry each part with a clean cloth. Cleaning helps you spot damage and keeps dirt away from your pump.

Tip: Put all parts in order as you remove them. This makes it easier to put the pump back together. It also helps you keep track of small pieces.

Inspection and Replacement

After cleaning, check every part for damage or wear. Use your hydraulic pump diagram to match each part by name and number. Look for cracks, scratches, or rust. Use the table below to help you check:

Inspection Point

Description

Hydraulic Fluid Levels and Quality

Check daily for levels and look for dirty or strange fluid

Hoses and Seals

Look for cracks, bulges, or scrapes; replace bad parts

Common Wear and Tear

Listen for odd noises, leaks, or weak performance

Lubrication

Make sure all parts have enough grease

Replace any parts that are broken or worn out. The most common parts to change during repair are:

  • Hydraulic pump

  • Hydraulic cylinder

  • Oil tank

  • Valve

  • Filter

Change the hydraulic oil and filter often. This keeps your system clean and helps your pump last longer. If you ignore these parts, you could have bigger problems and costly repairs.

Note: Always use parts that fit your machine’s model and serial number. Check your hydraulic pump diagram and the OEM catalog before buying new parts.

Reassembly

Before you put the pump together, check fluid levels and the suction strainer. Good fluid levels stop cavitation and help your pump work well. A clean suction strainer stops clogs and protects your pump.

  • Make sure the suction strainer is clean and has no grease or dirt.

  • Fill the hydraulic oil tank to the right level.

  • Check that all pump chambers are filled.

Follow the manufacturer’s rules for putting the pump together. Use the right torque for each bolt. Put special grease where needed. The table below shows important details:

Specification Type

Details

Bolt Torque Verification

Tighten every ‘life bolt’

Pump Body Cover Bolts

35-40 N·m

Valve Plate Cover Bolts

35 N·m

Inclined Plate Adjustment Spring Cover

40-45 N·m

Cleaning Procedure

Use low leftover industrial alcohol (IPA)

Lubrication Points

Use special extreme pressure grease

Re-inspection Frequency

First 50 hours, then every 300 hours

Vibration Analysis

38-point scan every 500 hours

Temperature Monitoring

Alarm if temperature goes over 80℃

Use your hydraulic pump diagram to check that every part is in the right spot. Match the diagram to your machine’s model and serial number. This helps you avoid mistakes and keeps your pump working right.

Tip: After you finish, run the excavator and look for leaks, noises, or warning lights. If you see problems, stop and check your work.

Fixing an excavator hydraulic pump takes time and care. By following these steps, you can fix pump problems and keep your excavator running well.

Tools and Professional Help

Essential Tools

You need special tools to fix your excavator’s hydraulic pump. The right tools help you stay safe and find problems fast. Using good diagnostic equipment helps you do a better job and make fewer mistakes.

Here are some tools you need for hydraulic pump repair: Wrenches and socket sets help you take off bolts. Hydraulic pressure gauges let you check the system pressure. Flow meters show how much fluid moves in the system. Vibration analyzers help you find worn bearings. Leak detectors help you find leaks you cannot see. Temperature sensors and thermal cameras check if parts get too hot. Clean brushes and spray guns help you clean the pump parts. Hydraulic pump diagrams help you know which part is which.

Tip: Always use a hydraulic pump diagram when you work. It helps you match the right parts and not make mistakes.

Special diagnostic equipment makes your repairs better. The table below shows what each tool does for you:

Diagnostic Technique

Benefit

Pressure and Flow Testing

Tells you how well the pump works.

Noise and Vibration Analysis

Finds problems you cannot see by looking.

Internal Leakage Testing

Shows if you need to rebuild or replace the pump.

Case Pressure Testing

Finds control system problems that lower flow.

Temperature Monitoring

Warns you about overheating early.

Thermal Imaging

Finds hot parts before they break.

Oil Analysis Trending

Lets you know about wear and bad fluid early.

You can get all these tools and parts from YNF Machinery. This company has good choices for fixing your excavator hydraulic pump. You do not need to shop anywhere else.

When to Call a Pro

Sometimes you need an expert to fix your hydraulic pump. Hard problems or a pump that will not work need special skills and tools. Call a pro if you see these things: The pump will not work at all. You cannot figure out what is wrong. You see big leaks or broken parts. The system shows warning lights you do not understand.

Professional repair services give you many good things:

Benefit

Description

Impact

Superior Technical Skills

Trained experts find and fix problems fast

Repairs are right and you wait less time

Quality Parts and Tools

They use the best parts for your machine

Parts fit better and last longer

Efficient Service

Repairs are quick because of special training

You get up to 30% less downtime

Getting a pro to fix your pump costs more money. But you get repairs you can trust. Easy repairs cost about $700 to $1,500. Hard repairs can cost over $3,000. A new hydraulic pump can cost $1,500 to $15,000 or more. Rebuilding a pump costs $800 to $7,500. Pros use OEM parts, so your excavator works better and lasts longer.

Note: If you want your excavator to work like new, hiring a pro is often best. You save money later because you do not have to fix the same problem again.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Checks

You can help your excavator hydraulic pump last longer by checking it often. If you find problems early, you can fix them before they get worse. This saves you money and keeps your machine working. Here are some good ways to take care of your hydraulic pump:

  1. Look at your pump and hoses for leaks or damage.

  2. Check the fluid level every day before you start work.

  3. Change filters every 500 hours or when the manual says.

  4. Use good hydraulic fluid that fits your pump.

  5. Watch the pump temperature with a gauge so it does not get too hot.

  6. Follow the maintenance plan from your pump’s maker.

  7. Fix worn parts fast so bigger problems do not happen.

Tip: Make a list for daily and weekly checks. This helps you find small problems before they turn into big ones.

Fluid and Strainer Care

Hydraulic fluid and suction strainers are very important for your pump. If the fluid is dirty or low, your pump can have many problems. These problems include cavitation, overheating, and even pump failure. You should do these things to keep your system clean and working well:

  1. Check the fluid and suction strainer for dirt or trash. Clean or change the strainer if you need to.

  2. Keep the hydraulic reservoir full so air does not get in.

  3. Look at the fluid. It should be clear, not dark or foamy.

  4. Check for leaks near the pump, hoses, and fittings.

  5. Test the pump and relief valve to make sure they work. Listen for strange sounds.

Dirty fluid can hurt your pump in many ways:

Impact Type

Description

Increased Wear and Tear

Dirt and bits wear out pump parts faster.

Reduced Efficiency

Dirty fluid moves slower and lowers power.

Component Clogging

Trash can block passages and break the system.

Increased Operating Temperatures

Dirty fluid makes more friction and heat, hurting parts.

Corrosion Damage

Water in the fluid can rust metal parts.

Impaired Sealing Functionality

Bits can hurt seals and cause leaks.

Fluid Degradation

Bad fluid cannot protect or grease parts well.

Note: You can buy good hydraulic parts and filters from YNF Machinery. These help your excavator stay strong.

You can keep your excavator hydraulic pump working well by following easy steps. Use hydraulic system diagrams to find problems early. This helps you avoid taking apart parts you do not need to. Regular checks and good care, like using high-quality fluid and checking filters, help you stop breakdowns.

  • Look at fittings for rust or loose pieces.

  • Check seals and O-rings for any damage.

  • Keep your work area clean so dirt does not get in.

  • Always turn off the system and let out pressure before fixing anything.

  • Only trained people should work on hydraulic parts.

Taking care of your machine and being safe helps you save money. It also keeps your excavator strong. If you need good parts or help, YNF Machinery has what you need for your excavator.

FAQ

How often should you check your excavator’s hydraulic pump?

You should check your hydraulic pump every day before you start work. Regular checks help you find leaks, low fluid, or damage early. This keeps your excavator safe and strong.

What hydraulic fluid works best for excavator pumps?

You should use high-quality hydraulic fluid that matches your excavator’s manual. Good fluid protects pump parts and helps your machine work better. Always avoid mixing different fluids.

Can you repair a hydraulic pump yourself?

You can fix simple problems like leaks or dirty filters. For big issues, you should call a professional. If you need parts or help, YNF Machinery offers reliable solutions.

Why does your hydraulic pump make strange noises?

Strange noises often mean air is trapped, fluid is low, or parts are worn out. You should stop your machine and check for leaks, loose bolts, or dirty fluid.

Where can you buy quality hydraulic pump parts?

You can buy quality hydraulic pump parts from YNF Machinery. They offer pumps, filters, and seals that fit many excavator models. Good parts help your machine last longer.

Picture of Jeffrey Chen

Jeffrey Chen

Hi, I’m Jeffrey Chen, the author of this post. We have more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supplying excavator parts, providing high-quality components to businesses in over 50 countries worldwide. From small repair shops to large distributors, our customers rely on us for durable and precise excavator parts that meet industry standards. Our extensive product range includes excavator couplings, rubber mounts, hydraulic components, filters, electrical parts, undercarriage parts, and more, covering a wide variety of brands and models. Whether for construction, mining, agriculture, or heavy machinery applications, our parts are built to withstand demanding work conditions, ensuring reliable performance and long service life.
If you have any requests, get in touch with us for a free quote and let us provide a one-stop solution for your market.

Welcome To Share This Page:
Product Categories
Get A Free Quote Now !
Contact Form Demo (#3)

Related Products

Related News

Choose the right Bobcat mini excavator hydraulic parts by checking model compatibility, durability, and warranty to keep your machine running smoothly.
Bobcat mini excavator parts list includes engine, hydraulics, undercarriage, cab, electrical, attachments, and maintenance items.
Find the correct cat 336f excavator air filter part number, compatible options, and tips for choosing the right filter for your machine.
Choose Cat 325L excavator parts by matching your model and serial number for perfect fit, reliable performance, and long-lasting machine operation.
Compare OEM and aftermarket cat 325 excavator parts for cost, reliability, fit, and warranty to choose the best option for your machine.
Select E330C excavator parts by matching model and serial numbers for fit, reliability, and project needs. Ensure genuine parts for lasting performance.
Ensure E32 excavator parts online match your model by checking serial numbers, part specs, and seller reliability for perfect compatibility.
E32 compact excavator normal part replacement is simple with step-by-step tips for filters, tracks, and more. Keep your machine running strong and safe.
Scroll to Top

Get A Free Quote Now !

Contact Form Demo (#3)
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.