Cat hydraulic components are engineered to deliver top performance throughout the lifespan of your equipment.
Regular maintenance for your hydraulic system is the key helping your equipment operating efficiently and at peak performance, holding its value and avoiding the need for hydraulic cylinder repair.
1. Use high-quality lubrication. As hydraulic systems have become more sophisticated and operate with increased speed and pressure, lubrication has become more critical to protect metal surfaces from wear. Yancey can help ensure you’re choosing the right hydraulic oil to protect your equipment for the long term.
2. Inspect regularly. Check your hydraulic systems for signs of wear, damage and leaks. Catching issues early can prevent major problems that lead to unexpected repairs and costly downtime.
3. Do regular seal maintenance. Hydraulic cylinder seals prevent leaks, so they need replaced as soon as they begin showing signs of wear or damage. Yancey carries a wide range of replacement parts, including seals, gaskets and O rings, so you’ll never lose additional time hunting for the right parts.
4. Control contamination. Keep hydraulic systems clean and free from contamination, dust, debris and moisture and ensure filters and breathers are in use and in good shape. Industry studies show fluid contamination causes 75 to 85 percent of all hydraulic component failures.
5. Conduct pressure checks. Caterpillar recommends hydraulic- intensive machines undergo a detailed hydraulic system inspection every 12 months or 2,000 hours. This ensures the pressure is in recommended ranges — excessive pressure can lead to cylinder and seal damage.
6. Protect cylinder rods. Use boots or shields to prevent damage to the cylinder rod from flying rocks and debris while equipment is in use.
7. Check alignment and installation. The goal is to ensure the hydraulic component is properly installed to avoid friction, which can lead to critical equipment failure.
8. Always use equipment properly. Avoid overloading, sudden stops and abrupt movements. Telematics and technology can give you real-time updates and notifications when the machine is being overloaded or improperly used for the terrain and conditions.
Yancey has been Georgia’s Caterpillar dealer for over 100 years, and we offer our customers unmatched products and services, including Customer Value Agreements and Condition Monitoring Services, both of which extend equipment life and protect your investment.
Customer Value Agreements are easy ownership plans that include troubleshooting, diagnostics and repairs with Genuine Cat Parts for a flat monthly fee based on the age and condition of your equipment.
Condition Monitoring services with Yancey’s Cat-certified analysts can proactively protect your entire fleet by evaluating equipment data and offering maintenance, component replacement, application and repair recommendations — ultimately lower operating costs and ensuring equipment is available when you need it. Contact us for all your hydraulic cylinder needs today.
