Cat^® Boom Cylinder Replacement

What typically causes cylinder failure?

High usage and harsh site conditions contribute to cylinder failure. Impact, corrosion and abrasion all take their toll, too, and can lead to serious machine performance issues. But surprisingly, many hydraulic system failures can be traced to contamination.

One place contamination can enter is through the cylinder seals. Even small imperfections on the rod can let in contaminants. This damages the cylinder bore and piston seals, leading to internal leaks and efficiency loss. Often, the damage happens before the operator can detect a problem.

Hydraulic system efficiency loss can reach up to 20% before an operator notices it, so you’re losing efficiency while spending more on fuel. Eventually, contamination can spread to the entire hydraulic system, including pumps, motors and valves. That can lead to catastrophic damage and extra downtime.

How can I prevent contamination from damaging my cylinders?

• Take proactive steps to keep your hydraulic system clean, including regular maintenance and preventive checks. Consult your machine's Operation & Maintenance Manual for specific instructions.
• Use quality Cat filters and Cat fluids, along with S•O•S^℠ fluid analysis. It helps identify issues before you even know something's wrong.
• Ask your Cat dealer to run technical analysis on your hydraulic system. Cylinder drift rate, cylinder cycle time and system pressure checks can help identify hidden issues.

How do I inspect my hydraulic system?

First, start the engine and listen for noises like whining or grinding. They could be signs of pump cavitation or a loose or failed bearing.

Next, shut down the machine. Turn the key to the on position and move the levers back and forth to release hydraulic pressure. Give components time to cool off before continuing with your inspection.

Then, conduct a walkaround inspection:

• Check sight gauges to see if you need to add any fluids.
• Look for leaks and damaged hoses around the steering/brake valves and hydraulic pump area.
• Check for loose or damaged hose clamps.
• Inspect oil cooler and condenser lines for worn hoses or leaks around connections.
• Ensure fan motor connection points are free of leaks.
• Check for dirt buildup around lift and tilt cylinder seals, where leaks may not be obvious.
• Make sure there’s no damage to cylinder rods, linkage pins or joints.

NOTE: Always consult your machine's Operation & Maintenance Manual for specific instructions.

Why should I choose Cat hydraulic cylinders at replacement time?

Cat hydraulic cylinders are designed for better durability and precision, making them an ideal choice for tough applications.

• The cylinder barrel is closed by end caps and honed to reduce the risk of contamination and prolong seal life.
• Rod eyes are attached to the piston rod through an inertia friction welding process for a stronger joint bond.
• A sealing system absorbs pressure spikes, withstands side loading and guards against contamination.
• Induction hardening on the rod produces greater hardened depth, which results in improved mechanical properties and provides better protection against damage like dents, scratches and internal impacts.