How To Maintain Your Dump Truck's Hydraulic System
Most modern cars and trucks have a hydraulic system, but for dump trucks, this feature is especially important. It's what allows the bed to lift, lower, and dump heavy loads. If your dump truck's hydraulic system fails or malfunctions, you won't be able to perform the tasks your job requires.
While it's inevitable a truck's hydraulic system will wear down over time and require occasional repairs and replacements, by maintaining it, you can reduce breakdowns and keep them on a regular interval so you're not blindsided by a sudden failure. These maintenance tips for your dump truck hydraulic system will help you keep this mechanism in the best shape possible so you can keep working efficiently.
Keep an Eye on the Oil Level
The hydraulic fluid is the heart of the whole operation. Without the right amount of fluid, the system can’t generate the pressure needed to lift that heavy bed. You'll want to get into the habit of a regular check on the fluid level. A low level could point to a leak somewhere in the system, which is a problem you’ll want to sort out sooner rather than later.
Change the Hydraulic Fluid Regularly
Hydraulic fluid doesn't last forever. Over time, it breaks down and collects contaminants like dirt, water, and tiny metal particles from normal wear and tear. Dirty fluid can damage pumps, valves, and cylinders. A periodic fluid change with a fresh supply will help everything run cleaner and smoother. Your truck’s manual should give you a recommended schedule for this.
Always Use the Right Type of Fluid
It might seem like all hydraulic fluids are the same, but they aren't. Different systems require different types of fluid with specific properties. You should consult your owner's manual to find the exact type of fluid your dump truck needs. Some common types include mineral oil-based, synthetic, and water-based hydraulic fluids. The use of the wrong fluid can cause poor performance and even permanent damage to system components.
Inspect Hoses and Fittings
The hoses and fittings are the pathways for the hydraulic fluid. They operate under extreme pressure, so they’re common spots for wear. A quick visual inspection for cracks, bulges, or leaks can help you catch these issues early so you can address them before they worsen. You'll want to pay extra attention to areas where hoses might rub against other parts of the truck, as that friction accelerates wear.
Listen for Unusual Noises
You know what your truck sounds like during normal operation. A new sound from the hydraulic system, like a whine, grind, or groan, is often the first sign that something is amiss. A whining pump could indicate air in the system or low fluid, while a grinding or groaning sound may signal a more serious issue, such as a failing component. A strange noise is your truck’s way to tell you that it needs attention before a small issue becomes a large one.
Check the Hydraulic Filter
Your hydraulic system has a filter for a reason. It catches all the gunk and debris that you don't want to circulate through the delicate parts of the system. Just like the oil filter for your engine, the hydraulic filter needs a periodic replacement.
On average, you should change your hydraulic filter every 500 hours of use or every six months, whichever comes first. A clogged filter can restrict fluid flow, which reduces system performance and can lead to component failure; replacing it before it gets to this point prevents potential damage and costly repairs.
Keep the System Clean
Dirt and grime on the outside of the hydraulic components, especially around the cylinder rods and seals, can work their way inside. This external debris can contaminate the fluid and damage the seals. A simple wipe-down of the hydraulic cylinder rod before lowering the dump body can prevent contaminants from entering the system. You can use a clean, lint-free cloth for this; start at the top of the cylinder and wipe downwards, away from the seal.
Operate the System Correctly
How you use your dump truck affects the health of its hydraulic system. You should avoid abrupt starts and stops when you lift or lower the bed. These sudden jolts put a massive strain on the pump, hoses, and cylinders. A smooth, controlled operation is much gentler on all these components and will contribute to a longer lifespan for the system.
Address Leaks Immediately
A small drip of hydraulic fluid might not seem like a big deal, but you shouldn’t ignore it. That drip could indicate issues like worn-out seals, damaged hoses, loose fittings, or even cracks in the hydraulic cylinder. If you don’t fix the root cause, the problem will escalate and lead to bigger failures down the line.
But in the meantime, that small leak can still cause issues for your equipment’s efficiency. It can lower system pressure, reduce performance, and even lead to overheating if left unchecked. Once you spot a leak, your next course of action should be to trace it to its source and repair it, not to wait and let it worsen.
Watch for Slow Operation
If you notice the dump bed lifts or lowers slower than it used to, that's a clear symptom of a problem. The slow speed could point to a number of things, from low or dirty fluid to a weak pump or an internal leak. When the system's performance starts to lag, it’s time to do some detective work. A prompt diagnosis can prevent a full-blown failure when you have a heavy load to dump.
Keep Your Truck Hauling
The more effort you put into maintaining your dump truck's hydraulic system, the better it'll work for you. These tips will help you keep this complex system running as smoothly as possible, so you don't have to deal with unexpected breakdowns right in the middle of a job.
At Higgs Parts, we have the components you need to maintain your dump truck's hydraulic system, including PTO control towers. We're a HYVA dealer that carries their best products at an affordable price, so you get high-quality that lasts without breaking the bank. Shop our collection today and stock up on replacement parts for when you need them.