Hydraulic cylinders used in steering systems require maintenance and occasional repair to continue functioning properly. As parts begin to wear, you may experience a decrease in performance, or even the complete failure of the hydraulics. In these situations, you may need to choose between repair and replacement.

Dealing with Hydraulic Fluid Leaks

When you detect hydraulic fluid leaks, you may have a worn or damaged seal. You may notice fluid leaking onto the piston rod or beneath the gland. These leaks can have significant negative effects for your operations, even if the cause of the leak is a minor issue.

Hydraulic leaks cost additional money in wasted oil and reduce the efficiency of your machinery or boats. Leaks may also cause slip and fall accidents, and shorten the service life of other components, or the entire hydraulic system. Hydraulic fluid leaks are often caused by minor issues, such as a tear in a hose, or a worn seal. Experienced technicians can typically repair the issue quickly. However, repeated leaks are a sign of major wear and may indicate that it is time to replace the system.

The Piston Rod is Damaged or Worn

Another issue that you may detect is a worn or damaged piston rod. This is a problem that can cause damage to other parts, resulting in costly repairs. Simple issues, such as a misaligned piston rod, are often easily repaired. If the rod contains noticeable damage, the rod may need replacement to avoid the need for additional repairs. In both cases, you may not need to replace the entire hydraulic system.

The Mountings are Worn or Unaligned

When the mountings begin to wear, the hydraulic cylinder will no longer function efficiently. Regular maintenance helps prevent problems with the mountings. However, you may still experience loose bolts or corroded parts. If the worn mountings have not caused damage to other components, hydraulic repairs may prevent the need for replacement. Repair experts can tighten the bolts on fixed mountings and ensure that the pivot mountings are properly lubricated.

Contact Experts to Inspect Your Hydraulic System

If you need assistance with your marine hydraulics in Southampton, including advice on choosing between repair or replacement, contact experienced repair technicians. A thorough inspection of all components will help determine the extent of the damage or wear and tear.

Instead of waiting for mechanical issues with your marine equipment or boats, you should implement a preventive maintenance plan. Schedule regular maintenance to keep your hydraulic systems in working condition and delay the eventual need for replacement.

Maintaining your marine machinery and vessels is essential for the safety of your workers. When the hydraulics begin to fail, you increase the risk of accidents. Always deal with repairs quickly, and consider replacement when several small problems begin to add up.

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