When you are a truck driver or a fleet owner, you most likely understand that hydraulic systems are the main factor that determines the vehicle’s performance and operating cost. Without a doubt, these systems are responsible for the truck operations, and they provide the necessary power to lift heavier loads, operate machines, and keep everything moving in the process of the truck operation. So, let’s dive into the hydraulic systems of trucks by examining their components, benefits, and care.
What is a Truck Hydraulic System?
To put it simply, a truck hydraulic system is based on the laws of fluid mechanics, hence creating pressure on liquids that cannot be compressed, which, through the actuators, is then converted to mechanical energy. The process of hydraulic systems amplifies the truck’s power, enabling the truck to carry out operations like braking or lifting the cargo bed. Hydraulics have a wide range of applications, from dump trucks to semi-freight trucks and from hydraulic boom trucks to almost every other type of truck. Their high reliability and performance continue to be the reason why they are used in heavy-duty handling.
How Does a Truck Hydraulic System Work?
The efficiency of a truck’s hydraulic system is one of its most important qualities. Hydraulic oil is drawn into the hydraulic pump as soon as the hydraulic motor begins rotating, to be more precise. After this, the oil, which undergoes the application of various forces, has its pressure increased, and therefore the hydraulic pressure rises. The next step is the passage of the pressurized oil through the hydraulic cylinder, where the piston rod is consequently pushed out, thereby affecting the conversion of hydraulic energy into mechanical energy. To sum it up, the entire cycle is what gives the truck its outstanding lifting power; even heavy loads can be lifted or moved with a high degree of stability and reliability, and all this with the use of only a small amount of mechanical energy input. For instance, during heavy load lifting, the hydraulic system performs the function in a gentle and productive manner, which also trims down the stress on nothing but the truck’s engine and other components.
Components of a Truck Hydraulic System
Working in unison, the hydraulic power components of a typical truck hydraulic system are composed of the following key parts:
Wet Line Kit: The kit includes hydraulic hoses, a hydraulic tank, a hydraulic pump, and control valves. It can be customized to fit the specific needs of your truck and is a necessary component for the power take-off (PTO) linkage. Wet line kits are mainly of two types: dual-line and triple-line. The dual-line system is simpler but can lead to oil contamination, while the triple-line system is provided with an independent return line along with a filter that keeps the oil circulating clean.
Power Take-Off (PTO): The PTO is usually positioned inside the cab to provide easy access and operation. Its role is to keep the hydraulic systems powered with the same strength as the engine’s power and empower the truck to perform its jobs.
Hydraulic Tank: The hydraulic tank is used to hold the hydraulic fluid when not in use, with the help of suction. The hydraulic tank also acts as an apparatus that removes air and water to clean the fluid, increasing the efficiency of the hydraulic system. The large hydraulic tank may assist the truck in performing steady functions.
Truck Actuators: They are hydraulic cylinders that convert the hydraulic power into mechanical power, which enables the truck to quickly lift or lower the load.
Actuators are vital in the working of the hydraulic systems in trucks.
Advantages of Truck Hydraulic Systems
Hydraulic systems in trucks come with multiple benefits, which contribute towards making these systems an essential part of heavy-duty operations:
Powerful: Truck hydraulic systems are strong enough to transmit great force to the load by hydraulic energy, which consequently leads to faster loading and unloading. The application of such force and the main stability are the reasons why the goods transportation by trucks is efficient.
Stable and Safe: The hydraulic systems can be considered to be the safest due to their non-sparking quality. Well-sealed systems with clean hydraulic fluid are not only reliable but also stable, guaranteeing that the truck bed will be raised and lowered smoothly. The stability, in turn, minimizes the chance of the cargo dropping, improving safety.
Easy to Maintain: Generally, fewer parts are found in hydraulic systems, which come with easier inspection and maintenance. The life of hydraulic systems can be extended and costly repairs avoided through routine check-ups and good maintenance.
Easy to Control: The control valves of a hydraulic system, which is mounted on a truck, can very accurately manage the flow and pressure, thereby making the truck much easier to operate. Such control, in conjunction with the incredible force of the hydraulic system, increases the efficiency of the operation.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips
When it comes to hydraulic systems employed in trucks, they certainly have performed well over the years, but still, they can face some problems if not kept under good maintenance. A list of the most frequent problems and easy, handy, and maintenance tips for your hydraulic system is provided below:
Overheating: In case of overheating of your truck’s hydraulic system, stop using the truck at once. Overheating can be a result of either the gradual breakdown of the mechanical parts or the usage of unclean fluid in the hydraulic system. Operating the truck under high-temperature conditions might worsen the existing problem and lead to repairs that would be even more costly than the initial situation. To make sure that overheating is no longer an issue, your hydraulic system must be taken care of with the utmost attention; besides, the fluid that’s poured into the system has to be clean and of the proper thickness.
Noise: One of the signs that there might be some misaligned couplings or worn-out parts in the truck’s hydraulic system is the emergence of noise that is out of the ordinary. Apart from those sharp noises, cavitation in the hydraulic pump may also lead to bubble rupture and generate the added noise. It is important to monitor the system in order to be able to spot potential issues like those mentioned and have them addressed before they become beyond control.
Instability or Leakage in the Oil Flow: Unstable or leaking oil flow within the hydraulic system is one of the symptoms that imply the possible damage of the parts, improper alignment, or the failure of the seals. Regular maintenance and timely repair can ensure that these problems do not result in the truck being out of service for an extended period of time. Over-vibration: This could be due to loose or warped truck hydraulic couplings that make that unusual sound or slip. This type of noise can severely affect the truck’s operation. A proper checkup and consistent change of the worn-out parts can help eliminate the occurrence of such issues.
Hydraulic System Maintenance Guidelines
The hydraulic system of the truck is one that, if you want to maintain it for a long time and get good performance from it, will require constant care and attention. Here are the best practices that should be adopted by every truck owner:
Regular Inspections: An inspection of the hydraulic system should be done regularly to find out the problems in the early stages. During the inspection, not only should the abnormal sounds and leaks get more focus, but also the checking of any signs of the system being worn out. Quick fixing of these issues could save you from bigger problems later.
Fluid Management: Keeping the hydraulic fluid at the right viscosity and being sure that it is clean are your main tasks. The fluid should be thoroughly checked for its level and quality at regular intervals and should only be replaced if it is soiled or depleted. Allowing dirt to get into the reservoir can cause the system to fail; hence, utmost care is needed during the fluid change.
Component Replacement: Without delay, the practice of replacing worn-out or defective hydraulic parts is one way to prevent further damage. Increased lifespan of the hydraulic system couplers, guaranteeing smooth operation, can be achieved through regular maintenance and timely replacement of parts.
Professional Service: If you are not sure, don’t think twice about calling in the truck hydraulic systems professionals as a last option. The I-55 Truck and Trailer Repair crew in Crawfordsville, Arkansas, has the right expertise and equipment to deal with your whole hydraulic system. It does not matter if it is everyday maintenance or a difficult repair; we will still see to it that your trucks run without complications, incurring little costs.
Why Choose I-55 Truck and Trailer Repair?
We recognize that a truck’s hydraulic system is of great significance for both performance and safety; hence, it requires regular monitoring. Meanwhile, the company that has technicians with exceptional mechanical skills is formed by the repair and maintenance of all types of trucks and trailers, rendering superb service. No matter if it is routine service or complicated repairs, we are able to handle it with our craftsmanship and the best equipment in the industry.
Our top priorities are quality and customer satisfaction, and we are very proud of them. To ensure the safe and efficient operation of your vehicles, we will cut down on their downtime and, as a result, increase their performance. Trust us for a full spectrum of services and a professional attitude that will not only keep your trucks on the road but will also give your business a boost.
We at I-55 Truck and Trailer Repair are the ideal place for you if you require trustworthy and professional truck and trailer repair services. Any part of your hydraulic system will be taken care of by our team, who are always ready to help you. Do not wait to call us at (870) 635-4003 today for an appointment or to learn about our services. We are here to support you in maintaining your trucks operating smoothly and efficiently, which means that you will be able to stay on the road and not miss any deadlines.