Seal kits are used to fill gaps between components in hydraulic cylinders, which is crucial for maintaining hydraulic pressure and keeping contaminants out of fluid power systems.
If you’re considering buying a hydraulic cylinder seal kit, you probably have some questions. This article will cover what you need to know before making your purchase.
Are Automotive Lift Repair Florida Hydraulic Cylinder Seal Kits Universal?
There are various types of hydraulic cylinder rebuild kits, each designed for specific rod and bore diameters, stroke lengths, cylinder lengths, and pressure flow requirements. Seal kits come in several types, including standard, loaded lip, cast-iron piston rings, and fluorocarbon. The right kit depends on factors such as the piston rod’s stroking speed, fluid media, and fluid pressure range. Ensuring the seals in the kit match the required size is also crucial.
How to Choose the Right Automotive Lift Repair Florida Seal Size
Sizing a hydraulic cylinder seal kit is straightforward if you have a tape measure and calipers. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Measure the Bore: Measure the interior diameter of the cylinder with a tape measure.
2. Measure the Piston Rod: Use outside calipers to measure the diameter of the chrome-plated, hardened steel piston rod.
3. Determine the Cylinder’s Retracted Length: Measure the distance between the centers of the pin holes when the cylinder is fully retracted.
4. Measure the Cylinder’s Extended Length: Measure the distance between the pin holes when the cylinder is fully extended.
5. Calculate Your Cylinder’s Stroke: Subtract the retracted length from the extended length. For example, if the retracted length is 12 inches and the extended length is 34 inches, the stroke is 22 inches.
6. Inspect the Hydraulic Cylinder: Check the hose ports for signs of wear and tear and order any necessary replacement accessories.
Types of Automotive Lift Repair Florida Hydraulic Cylinder Seals
Hydraulic cylinder seals fall into two main categories: static and dynamic. Static seals prevent fluid leakage in stationary parts, such as where the piston and rod join. Dynamic seals, used in moving parts, include piston seals, rod and buffer seals, wiper seals, and guide rings. Each type plays a critical role in the cylinder’s operation.
Signs of Seal Failure
Automotive Lift Repair Florida Seal kits become essential when dealing with unforeseen failures. Common signs of failure include:
– Oil Leaks: Oil leaking from around the cylinder can be a clear indicator.
– Pressure Drops: A drop in hydraulic pressure may signal seal issues.
– Overheating: An overheated cylinder might indicate problems.
– Unusual Noises: Loud clunking or banging noises can be a sign of failure.
– Increased Vibration: Higher-than-normal shaking or vibration may warrant inspection.
Other potential signs of seal failure include:
– Excessive Wear: Often caused by improper lubrication, leading to seal tearing or discoloration.
– Seal Hardening: High temperatures can cause seals to harden, crack, or tear.
– Improper Installation: Using the wrong seal size or measuring incorrectly can lead to leaks and performance issues.
– Contamination: Dirt and debris in the cylinder can worsen over time, affecting operation.
– Seal Fracture: Impacts or low-quality seals can lead to fractures, tearing, or ripping.
Before making any adjustments or repairs to the mounted cylinder, ensure it is securely supported to prevent accidental lowering. Set the cylinder valve to the “LOWER” position to relieve pressure in the cylinder.
Field service repairs should be limited to replacing packing, bushings, and wipers, and adjusting head nuts for leakage and proper sequencing. Before servicing, inspect the plungers for damage. If there are any scratches or scoring, smooth them with a fine stone or emery cloth to avoid damaging the new seals.
After Automotive Lift Repair Florida repair, you might notice a light film of oil on the plunger or a small accumulation around the adjustable head nut after several cycles. This should not be confused with packing leakage.
If minor repairs are insufficient, return the cylinder to Custom Hoists® or a factory-qualified service dealer. For disassembly due to damaged parts like a plunger, completely disassemble the cylinder and inspect all components. When ordering parts or requesting information, refer to the cylinder and serial numbers at the base end. Install a Major Repair Kit when rebuilding.
There are various methods for installing a Automotive Lift Repair Florida U-Cup seal into a hydraulic cylinder, depending on its size and shape. Generally, smaller or thicker U-Cups require the use of a tool for installation, while thin and flexible seals can typically be installed by hand. Refer to the instructions below for guidance on both installation methods. Ensure that all seals and cylinder components are clean and free of dirt and debris before starting the installation.
Automotive Lift Repair Florida Parts Identification
Service the cylinder in the vertical position for both disassembly and assembly. Position it so a hoist can be used overhead for removing plungers if complete disassembly is needed. A typical stand consists of an angle welded to a base anchored to the floor, with an adjustable wraparound chain to secure the cylinder. Drain the cylinder of oil before disassembly to prevent spills.
Set Screws Head nuts are secured by a set screw with a nylon slug underneath to protect the threads. Loosen the set screw with an allen wrench to remove the head nut. (See Figure 3)
Head Nuts Once the set screws are loosened, gently tap the head nut around its circumference and unscrew it with a chain wrench or equivalent tool. Avoid using chisels, punches, or welding studs to remove the head nut.
Bushings Use a small chisel and mallet to tap gently and uniformly around the circumference of the bushing.
Packing, Wave Spring, Lower Bushing To remove these components, pull the plunger up about one foot. Apply tape to a clean area (see Figure 6), push the plunger down past the packing, then pull it up. The internal parts will stick to the tape and be removed with the plunger. Repeat if necessary.
Retainer Rings Insert a pointed screwdriver into the small hole at each end of the retaining ring to move it out into the inner diameter. Place a steel shim behind the retainer. Using the Custom Hoists’ retainer ring tool, insert the points into the retainer, close it against the tube, and pull the tube to remove the retainer and plunger stop.
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