Regular maintenance of your excavator equipment involves conducting standard fluid level checks. It is essential to monitor the hydraulic oil levels as it is responsible for the power being distributed throughout your excavator. This article will highlight the significance of monitoring hydraulic oil levels in your equipment.
Why is it essential to monitor the hydraulic fluid level? Simply put, without hydraulic oil, the machine won’t function. The hydraulic system is responsible for distributing power throughout the machine, meaning every action the machine performs relies on hydraulic oil.
For instance, an excavator’s movement (forward, backward, left, and right) is made possible by the hydraulic track motor, powered by oil from the main pump connected to the engine. Additionally, the excavator’s 360-degree swiveling capability is facilitated by the slew motor, also reliant on the hydraulic system. Furthermore, hydraulic cylinders connected to the hydraulic circuit operate the boom and stick.
Many attachments on excavators, such as augers, buckets, and hammers, also function with hydraulic flow. Clearly, the hydraulic systems of excavators are crucial, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the appropriate hydraulic oil level for smooth and efficient operation.
Safety precautions must be observed before conducting any checks. The excavator should be turned off, the key removed from the ignition, and pressure released from the tank before removing the cap.
There are various models of excavators, each with two distinct methods for checking hydraulic oil levels: dipstick and sight glass. The choice depends on the type of machine you have.
Dipstick Method:
- Locate and clean the dipstick:
- Find the dipstick near the hydraulic pump or fluid reservoir, labeled with ‘hydraulic.’
- Clean it with a cloth or rag for an accurate reading.
- Remove the dipstick and check the oil level:
- Pull out the cleaned dipstick, noting high and low marks.
- The oil level should be between these marks; adjust by adding or removing oil as needed.
- Adding or removing oil:
- Pour oil carefully into the hydraulic tank; use a turkey baster or pump for removal.
- Ensure the correct oil type is used to prevent damage.
- Reinsert the dipstick and recheck the oil level:
- After adjustments, reinsert the dipstick and verify the oil level. Repeat if necessary.
Sight Glass Method:
- Locate and clean the sight glass:
- Find the sight glass near the hydraulic pump, labeled ‘hydraulic.’
- Wipe it with a cloth for a clear reading.
- Look through to check the oil level:
- Observe the indicator through the cleaned sight glass.
- Ensure the oil level is between the high and low marks; adjust as needed.
- Adding or removing oil:
- Add or remove oil carefully into the pump or reservoir.
- Use a turkey baster or pump for removal, ensuring the correct oil type is used.
- Recheck the oil level:
- Look through the sight glass again to ensure the oil level is appropriate.
- Repeat the process if the level is still not between the high and low marks.