Here are some common problems that can break a hydraulic cylinder or cause its malfunctioning. Here are some solutions that can help you rebuild or repair your hydraulic cylinder.
Problem 1: Hydraulic cylinder is cracked or piston rod is bent!
Solution: If on observation, you see the cylinder rod is bent or the cylinder barrel is cracked, there is pretty much nothing you can do. It's time to replace the cylinder. Forging a new barrel or straightening the piston rod is beyond your capacity. So if this is the case, repairing the hydraulic cylinder is impossible.
Solution: If the shaft seal is broken, it can be replaced. However, an opening of the entire cylinder assembly is necessary. You will need to obtain a diagram of the hydraulic cylinder if possible as it will help you in reassembly. These diagrams can be had from the equipment manufacturers and you can also carry a printout. You can order a standard
repair kit for your hydraulic cylinder which is supplied by the manufacturing company according to the number and type of cylinders in your machine.
The assembly of the cylinder varies with machine type. Locate the seal position first. Mostly, you will find it around the shaft on one end. The shaft entry end can be accessed by unscrewing the lid from that side. Then loosen the pipes that transmit the hydraulic fluid into the chambers which will release pressure.
This will enable you to remove the shaft which otherwise cannot be removed due to hydraulic pressure. Handle the shaft carefully and take care that you do not scratch it. Detach the piston from the shaft and replace the seal with the spare one from the repair kit. Make sure that the seal is aligned rightly. Oil all parts after fitting and reassemble everything in exactly reverse order.
Problem 3: Piston Rings are damaged!
Solution:If the piston rings are damaged, then they can be replaced too, by the same disassembling procedure, as for the above problem.
The Piston rings need to be removed and replaced very carefully.
Oil rings and cylinder assemble before putting back everything together.
If you have a multiple cylinder arrangement, things are more complicated. It is better to consult a qualified technician before going ahead. Always remember one rule while you are solving mechanical problems, do not proceed without a reason to take a particular action.
Make sure that you study the assembly and causative framework of the machine before going for repair. Remember, sometimes it is cheaper and more time efficient to order a new cylinders.
