Hydraulic failures on loaders and motor graders can halt your operations and increase costs—but they can be anticipated with proper tools and monitoring
Why Are Hydraulic Failures So Costly?
Hydraulic systems are the heart of loaders and motor graders. They control the heavy, precise movements required for earthmoving, loading, or grading tasks. A leak, a worn seal, or a faulty pump can quickly cause a major breakdown.
Consequences:
- Equipment downtime
- Delays on construction sites
- High repair costs
- Safety risks for operators
Early Warning Signs to Watch For
To anticipate failures, you must first learn to spot early warning signs:
- Decreased hydraulic performance: slower movements, lack of power.
- Visible hydraulic oil leaks on hoses, fittings, or cylinders.
- Unusual noises (whistling, knocking) from the hydraulic pump or motors.
- System overheating, indicating a pressure or filtration issue.
- Unusual vibrations during hydraulic movements.
Case Study: How a Workshop Avoided a Major Breakdown
A construction site was using a motor grader to prepare a surface. The operator noticed slower blade movements and an unusual noise near the hydraulic pump.
The workshop, equipped with Jaltest INFO Web and its hydraulic module, was able to:
- Read fault codes related to hydraulic pressure by connecting to the onboard system.
- Quickly consult diagrams and inspection procedures to identify a worn seal.
- Schedule the repair before the leak worsened.
Thanks to this preventive intervention, a major failure was avoided, saving thousands of euros and preventing extended downtime.
Best Practices to Prevent Hydraulic Failures
- Regular maintenance: check oil levels, replace filters according to manufacturer recommendations.
- Frequent visual inspections: look for leaks, check the condition of hoses and fittings.
- Monitor performance: note any drop in efficiency or unusual noises.
- Use advanced diagnostic tools, such as Jaltest INFO Web, to access technical data, fault codes, and system-specific guides.
- Train operators and technicians to recognize malfunction signs.
Essential Tools
Today, software-assisted diagnostics are a major asset. Jaltest INFO Web, for example, offers:
- Full coverage of hydraulic systems in loaders and motor graders.
- Precise troubleshooting guides by fault code or symptom.
- Interactive electrical and hydraulic diagrams.
- Maintenance alerts.
Conclusion: Prevention Is Your Best Ally
Anticipating hydraulic failures on your loaders and motor graders ensures project continuity and optimizes costs.
By combining vigilance, regular maintenance, and powerful tools like Jaltest INFO Web, you give yourself the best chance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
🚀 Want to see how Jaltest can help you prevent these failures?
👉 Request your free demonstration today!
