AVOID THE BREAKDOWN: COMMON HYDRAULIC PUMP FAILURES AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM
Hydraulic systems are the backbone of heavy equipment performance—powering everything from excavator arms and skid steer attachments to dump bed lifts and paver screeds. But when a hydraulic pump failure strikes, the entire system grinds to a halt.
Whether you’re operating construction equipment, trucks, or municipal machinery, understanding the most common hydraulic pump failures—and how to prevent them—can mean the difference between smooth operations and costly downtime.
Keep Your System Moving: Don’t Let Hydraulic Pump Failures Stop You Cold
Hydraulic pumps are the heart of any hydraulic system, converting mechanical energy into hydraulic energy to power everything from industrial machinery to construction equipment.
When these critical components fail, the consequences can be costly—resulting in unexpected downtime, expensive repairs, and lost productivity.
What Is a Hydraulic Pump Failure?
A hydraulic pump failure occurs when the pump can no longer move fluid efficiently through the hydraulic system, causing a loss of pressure, power, or system response. Failures can happen suddenly or develop slowly over time, often causing damage to other system components if not addressed early.
Common Causes of Hydraulic Pump Failures
Here are the most frequent causes of hydraulic pump breakdowns, based on industry data and field service insights:
1. Contaminated Hydraulic Fluid
Dirty fluid is the #1 cause of hydraulic pump issues. Contaminants like dust, water, metal particles, or degraded oil can scratch internal components, clog valves, and destroy seals.
2. Overheating
Excessive heat breaks down hydraulic fluid and reduces lubricating effectiveness, causing wear on moving parts. Long run times, poor ventilation, or low fluid levels often contribute.
3. Cavitation
This occurs when the pump doesn’t receive enough fluid and instead pulls in air bubbles, which collapse and cause shock waves inside the pump. Over time, this creates pitting and erosion.
4. Improper System Pressure
Incorrect relief valve settings or system blockages can cause too much pressure, leading to mechanical failure of the pump housing, seals, or bearings.
5. Poor Lubrication
Inadequate lubrication due to low-quality fluid, the wrong viscosity, or incorrect filtration can cause rapid wear on pump internals.
6. Misalignment or Mounting Issues
If the pump is not properly aligned with its drive source or is loosely mounted, vibration and uneven forces can accelerate failure.
How to Prevent Hydraulic Pump Failures
The good news is that most hydraulic pump failures can be prevented with routine maintenance and smart system monitoring.
✅ Prevention Tips:
Use high-quality, OEM-approved hydraulic fluid
Always use the correct fluid type and viscosity for your equipment and climate.Change filters on schedule
Dirty or clogged filters reduce flow and allow contaminants into the system.Monitor fluid temperature and level
Overheating is a silent killer. Watch for spikes in temp and top off fluid before it runs low.Check for leaks and unusual noises
Squealing, whining, or banging may indicate cavitation or pressure issues.Inspect for air in the system
Foamy fluid or sluggish system response may point to air infiltration.Keep your hydraulic system clean
Use clean tools and storage containers to avoid introducing contamination during maintenance.Get regular professional inspections
Partner with a trusted service team (like Tracey Road) to catch early wear signs before failure occurs.
Signs Your Hydraulic Pump May Be Failing
Knowing the symptoms of a failing pump can help you act before it leads to a full system shutdown.
Look out for:
Slower response times or jerky movement
Loss of lifting or pushing power
High-pitched noise or whining from the pump
Visible leaks around pump housing or lines
Fluid discoloration or bad smell (burnt fluid)
If you notice any of these, it’s time for a fluid analysis, pressure test, or system inspection before the damage spreads.
Why It Matters
Hydraulic pump failures can cost thousands in downtime, parts replacement, and labor—not to mention missed deadlines or safety risks. For operators and fleet managers, preventative maintenance is the best defense.
At Tracey Road Equipment, our factory-trained service teams can help you:
Inspect and replace worn pumps
Analyze hydraulic fluid for contaminants
Adjust system pressures
Rebuild or replace failed components
Provide OEM parts and filtration kits for all major brands
We stock and service hydraulic pumps from leading OEMs and offer field support across New York and Pennsylvania.