Best Practices for Maintaining John Deere Hydraulic Systems
In order to experience uninterrupted performance from your equipment, it’s essential to keep an eye on vital components of your machinery, including the hydraulic system. The hydraulic system is responsible for transferring power to your implements and other electrical components with hydraulic fluid. Without proper maintenance, you’re more likely to encounter problems like breakdowns, failures, and even hazardous accidents. Luckily, maintaining your John Deere’s hydraulics doesn’t take much effort if you incorporate these simple steps into your routine.
Understanding Hydraulic Components
To service your hydraulic system safely and efficiently, it’s important to understand the role each component plays in its operation.
- Hydraulic Pump: The hydraulic pump is what pressurizes the fluid to transmit power. It’s critical to build enough pressure to power the transmission.
- Reservoir: This is where the hydraulic fluid is stored. It ensures there is enough supply for hydraulics to function properly.
- Valves: The valves provide control of the flow and direction of the hydraulic fluid, enabling the operator is manage fluid more efficiently.
- Cylinders and Pistons: The cylinders and pistons work in conjunction to convert hydraulic energy into mechanical movement, a crucial force in operating several implements and attachments.
- Hoses and Lines: These are necessary to transport hydraulic fluid between components like implements and the steering wheel.
- Filters: An essential component for removing contaminants from hydraulic oil.
Keep Your System Clean and Inspect Thoroughly
Keeping a close eye on the hydraulic system can prevent you from unexpected downtime and costly repairs. So it’s a good practice to regularly inspect the system, preferably before each use. When inspecting equipment, check for obvious signs of damage like leaks, worn hoses, loose fittings, and signs of wear on seals and cylinders like scratches or dents.
It’s also important to keep the system clean to prevent excessive buildup and corrosion. When things get too clogged, it can hinder performance and cause damage in some cases. Keeping your system clean from debris, leaves, and other contaminants can extend the life of equipment and enhance overall operation.
Fluid Maintenance is Key
The hydraulic fluid is the driving force that keeps everything flowing and running smoothly. So it’s essential to monitor fluid levels regularly and top off as needed. Also, be sure to monitor the fluid’s quality, look for any signs of contamination like milky appearance, discoloration, or any unusual odors, and test the oil for any inconsistencies with your manufacturer’s specifications. You should replace the oil when contamination is present or according to John Deere’s manufacturer guidelines.
Don’t Forget the Filters
You can manually clean outside components like your reservoir and drain lines, but other components are protected from dirt and debris with the filters. Prevent contaminants from entering the system and ensure optimal flow by replacing filters regularly. Also, make a habit of cleaning or replacing breather caps and fill screens to maintain cleanliness.
Control Your Temp
The constant flow of hydraulic fluids throughout hoses, valves, and pumps can make things heat up quickly, which is why you should constantly monitor operating temperatures to prevent overheating. Simple ways to regulate the temperature of your hydraulics include installing coolers and insulation. You also need to give your equipment time to cool down after extended use, especially in high-temperature conditions.
Schedule Service
John Deere equipment is made to make maintenance easy, giving you the power to care for your equipment on your own time. Regardless, bringing your equipment to the shop annually for a full inspection done by professionals is best practice for identifying underlying issues you might not see and extending the life of your equipment. American Implement’s service department is staffed with thoroughly trained, certified technicians who are here to make routine repairs much easier. Contact your nearest dealer or schedule an appointment online today to keep your operation running at its peak.