Is Your Hydraulic Oil Ready for the Season?

Is Your Hydraulic Oil Ready for the Season?
Protect Your Crane’s Lifeblood Before It Costs You

As the summer construction season heats up, now is the time to take a close look at one of the most critical—yet often overlooked—components of your crane: the hydraulic oil. Hydraulic oil is the lifeblood of your crane and protects the hydraulic system by maintaining lubrication and regulating the temperature. It is most effective when it is free of contaminants, has the correct viscosity for your system, and is the recommended PH. Ignoring the condition of your hydraulic oil can lead to breakdowns, costly repairs, and extended downtime.

Hot, Dirty Oil is a Silent Killer

Hydraulic systems generate significant heat during operation, particularly when doing duty cycle work such as clamming or continually running the winch in burst-of-speed mode. Regular equipment use will introduce contaminates and promote degradation of the hydraulic fluid.

Hot, dirty oil causes premature wear on pumps, valves, seals, and cylinders—leading to decreased performance and potential system failure.

Another concern is water contamination. Usually introduced through condensation, water contamination promotes interior corrosion and alters the PH of your hydraulic oil.

Similarly, the introduction of air into the hydraulic system (either through leaks or vapor cavities) may change the oil viscosity, decrease system pressure, or increase oil acidity. All of which reduce the lubrication properties of the fluid within the system and risk metal fatigue.

Duty Cycle Work? Consider Your Cooling Needs

If your crane is doing heavy-duty cycle work like clamming or constant lifting, heat becomes an even greater issue. Make sure your oil cooler is properly sized and maintained to handle the additional load. Undersized or neglected coolers can lead to overheating, especially in warm weather conditions.

Use the Right Oil—and Change It on Time

Always use the manufacturer-recommended hydraulic oil and follow the change intervals specified in your operator’s manual. Using the wrong oil or stretching intervals beyond spec may seem like a cost-saver, but it can do more harm than good. Keeping oil clean and at proper levels ensures long-lasting, efficient operation.

Most manufacturers recommend hydraulic oil be changed once a year under average conditions. Your manufacturer’s exact recommendation can be found in your operator’s manual. However, because environmental factors and heavy lifts put more stress on the hydraulic system, the fluid may need to be change sooner if your equipment was exposed to extreme temperatures or an intensive workload.  

Call Runnion Equipment for Help

Don’t gamble with your crane’s performance. If you’re unsure about your hydraulic oil condition, cooling system, or maintenance schedule, call Runnion Equipment today. Our expert technicians can inspect your system, recommend the right oil, and schedule service to get your equipment ready for the season.

Call us today at 708-447-3169 to schedule your next hydraulic oil change