Have you ever repaired an old and, nearly scrapped excavator yourself? Are you willing to do such a complicated job, like fixing hydraulic leaks in excavators? I know what you are thinking about: it is a pain in the ass to fix a broken excavator by yourself, but watching some other guys fix an excavator until the machine is able to run again is enjoyable.
We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Marty (Youtuber account: Marty T), an influencer famous for his quality videos on heavy equipment restoration. In his recent post, he accepted the challenge of restoring an old and cheap excavator, which involves hydraulic leak problems. It’s been a fantastic journey working together, blending his hands-on expertise with our compatible aftermarket parts. His channel also inspired us to solve the hydraulic leaks in excavators. Check the video below and let’s have an exciting journey with Marty. Promise me you won’t click the video before going to bed–as the video is so good that it might delay your sleep for half an hour.
What are Hydraulic Leaks in Excavators?
Before we can actually address the problem, let’s first understand what are hydraulic leaks. Hydraulic leaks in excavators occur when the hydraulic fluid escapes from its designated system, leading to reduced performance and efficiency. These leaks disrupt the machine’s operation, potentially causing further damage if left unchecked. As highlighted in Marty’s video, hydraulic leaks are common challenges for excavator owners, particularly when dealing with older or heavily used equipment.
Signs & Symptoms of Hydraulic Leaks in Excavators
Spotting hydraulic leaks early is critical for maintaining excavator performance. Here are the key signs to watch for:
- Puddles or Drips of Fluid: A clear indicator of external leaks.
- Reduced Hydraulic Performance: Slower operation or difficulty lifting heavy loads.
- Hissing or Whining Sounds: These may signal internal leaks affecting pressure.
- Overheating Hydraulic Components: Excessive friction caused by fluid loss can lead to overheating.
- Decreased Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Regular checks of fluid reservoirs can reveal leaks.
Common Causes of Hydraulic Leaks in Excavators
Besides what was mentioned in Marty’s video, hydraulic leaks can stem from several sources. There are the most common culprits:
Contamination in the System: Dirt or debris can erode parts, leading to leaks.
High Pressure or Temperature Conditions: Stress from extreme operations can compromise system integrity. Though the hydraulic leaks show no seasonal breakout, in the summer, the high temperature could trigger the hydraulic oil to expand, thus increasing the risk of leakage.
Aging Seals and O-rings: Natural wear and tear lead to cracks and gaps. During the rainy season, contaminants are more likely to seep into the hydraulic system through aged seals or damaged components.
Improperly Tightened Connections: Loose fittings allow fluid to escape.
Damaged Hydraulic Hoses: Abrasion, punctures, or prolonged use can weaken hoses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Locating Hydraulic Leaks
Marty demonstrated an effective approach to finding leaks, which you can follow:
- Inspect the Excavator’s Exterior: Look for visible signs like drips, stains, or damaged hoses.
- Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Compare levels before and after use to detect significant drops.
- Use a Leak Detection Kit: UV dye kits or similar tools can pinpoint hidden leaks.
- Operate the Excavator: Observe performance issues, such as reduced power or unusual sounds.
- Examine Seals and Fittings: Pay special attention to connections and moving parts.
How to Repair a Hydraulic Hose Leak in an Excavator
The video highlights a practical example of repairing a hydraulic hose. Follow these steps for a similar approach:
- Shut Down the Machine: Ensure safety by turning off the excavator and relieving hydraulic pressure.
- Identify the Damaged Hose: Locate the exact point of leakage.
- Remove the Faulty Hose: Use appropriate tools to disconnect the hose from fittings.
- Replace with a New Hose: Select a replacement that meets the excavator’s specifications.
- Secure Fittings and Test the System: Tighten connections and test for further leaks.
Marty also emphasizes the importance of using high-quality replacement parts. We are glad to provide Marty with our filters and water pumps and win our recognition. They show strong reliability and good compatibility in the video, to ensure long-term use of the machinery. Click the link above now, you can buy the same ones as Marty! Click the flowing items to get the same ones as Marty.
- Thermostat 5137700320
- Hydraulic Filter for Kobelco 2446U233S2
- Lube Filter 4106178
- Water Pump 8-94376855-0
Conclusion
Marty fixed up an old excavator and condensed this amazing journey into a video of less than thirty minutes, providing a visual feast for us. His videos serve as a beacon of reliability and expertise, where the intricacies of hydraulic systems are demystified with every careful step.
Here again, we extend our deepest gratitude to Marty and his partner for their marvelous teamwork, and thank you for the exposure of our brand, FridayParts, in the video.
In the spirit of Marty’s dedication to fixing hydraulic leaks in excavators and our shared appreciation for the art of restoration, we encourage you to explore our range of hydraulic components and maintenance products. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, our products are designed to assist you in your quest for mechanical perfection.