How to Extend the Service Life of Hydraulic Motors – Advice from Mechanics

The hydraulic motor is one of the key components of the drive of special equipment. Hydraulic motor wear or malfunction can lead to equipment downtime and expensive repairs, or even complete replacement.

However, with the right approach and periodic diagnostics, a hydraulic motor can operate for tens of thousands of hours without breakdowns.
In this article, we will share practical advice from an experienced mechanic on how to extend the life of hydraulic motors.

1. Regular Replacement of Hydraulic Oil

Oil is the “blood” of the entire hydraulic system, which can lose its properties over time, accumulating water and dirt. This often leads to increased wear on all moving parts of the hydraulic motor.

Recommendation:

• Use only high-quality oil recommended by the manufacturer
• Change oil according to the schedule, or more often if your equipment operates in difficult conditions and under high loads. Difficult conditions can include dust, high temperatures, and other factors

2. High-Quality Filtration is Essential

Quality filters are the first line of defense for your hydraulic motor. Even small particles of dust and dirt can damage the motor's precise hydraulic components.

Recommendation:

• Replace filters on time, without waiting for them to become clogged
• Install only high-quality original or licensed filters
• Regularly check the system for metal shavings and other foreign matter

3. Temperature Control is Mandatory

Overheating of the oil is one of the most common causes of rapid wear of the hydraulic motor. At high temperatures, oils lose their viscosity and are unable to protect the internal surfaces of the hydraulic motor from friction.

Recommendation:

• Carefully monitor the operation of the cooling fan and radiator
• Avoid overloads in work that cause overheating
• Install additional cooling if necessary

4. Regular Diagnostics Are the Key to Long-Term Operation

Many potential problems with a hydraulic motor can be detected before a serious breakdown occurs. A drop in pressure in the system, excessive vibrations, and the appearance of extraneous noise are all signals that should not be ignored.

Recommendation:

• At the first signs of malfunctions, contact specialists. Aspect Plus mechanics are always ready to help with diagnostics and repairs if necessary
• Use testers or pressure gauges
• Regularly check the pressure in the system to rule out possible leaks

5. Avoid Overloading and Low Oil Level Operation

Starting a hydraulic system without first filling it is one of the most critical mistakes. It is also dangerous to work with mechanisms that are jammed due to lack of oil. These factors overload the hydraulic motor and can completely disable it.

Recommendation:

• Adhere to the working loads specified by the manufacturer
• Do not start the hydraulic system when the oil is frozen — wait for it to warm up
• Check the oil level before starting

In total, 80% of hydraulic motor failures are the result of careless or untimely maintenance. Special equipment that works 12 hours a day requires regular maintenance, which is rewarded with proper operation.

To Summarize:

It is not difficult to extend the life of a hydraulic motor if you follow the basic rules:

• Pure oil
• High-quality filtration
• Regular diagnostics
• Work without overloads
• Temperature control

And remember: timely maintenance of the hydraulic motor and the entire hydraulic system is many times cheaper than major repairs.
And spare parts for hydraulic motor repair and the repair itself — you can entrust it to Aspect Plus specialists.
Fast, on time and with guaranteed quality!