The hydraulic fluid inside your heavy equipment is the lifeblood of your machine—without it moving to power the different components in your hydraulic system, your dozer or crane is nothing more than a very expensive collection of metal.

So it’s critical to maintain a constant unimpeded flow of fluid to the extremities of your equipment. Just like in the human system, foreign materials in the fluid can impede the whole circulatory system. Foreign materials in the hydraulic fluid can cause rust, damage seals, and even lead to cavitation within the system. The result? Mechanical breakdowns and expensive repairs.

The way to mitigate this risk is to take care of your hydraulic fluid. A good filter is the heart of any healthy hydraulic system. This isn’t just a minor issue that can be put off indefinitely—worksites tend to be dirty, and full of potential contaminants that could get into your hydraulic fluid. A good filter (and attendant maintenance like regular fluid changes) is the first line of defense against equipment breakdowns and work stoppages.

It also pays to remember that one size doesn’t fit all when selecting the proper filters for your equipment. Each filter is designed specifically for the hydraulic fluid, environment, and usage under which your equipment operates. Grabbing something cheap and generic off the shelf may result in costly repairs.

Texas Hydrostatics knows the ins and outs of hydraulic equipment, including correct filter selection and maintenance intervals for your equipment. Contact them today to make sure that your hydraulic equipment stays as healthy as can be.