LOAD KING 80-160, Operator'S Manual

Page: 236 / 369

236
80-160
Maintenance
Filters and Maintenance
DETERMINING THE CONDITION OF THE OIL
The only definite way to assure that all accumulated contaminants which will wear the pump, motors,
and cylinders are removed from the hydraulic system is to drain the old oil and replace it with new. If oil
did not break down or could be kept lean permanently, changing would not be necessary. The easiest
way to determine the condition of oil is to obtain a sample from the system and make a visual examination.
Drain some oil from the reservoir into a clean glass container. If it has a burnt or rancid smell, or is cloudy
or dark in color, the oil needs to be changed. If water appears in the bottom of the glass after it has stood
awhile there may be either an opening for water to enter into the system, or the unit has been operating
under conditions causing condensation. A good example of condensation from extreme temperature
changes is when the unit is parked in a warm garage after being out in the cold all day.
The entry and sustained presence of water, solvents, and abrasive dirt will adversely affect the proper
condition of the oil. This can cause premature breakdown of viscosity, antifoam, lubrication, and anti-
rust characteristics of the oil. High operating temperatures and water will cause an increase in the oil’s
oxidation rate. As the oil oxidizes, sludge and varnish forming materials will be deposited in the pumps,
valves, cylinders, and lines; thus increasing the rate of wear on the components.
If the oil shows that water is present, or if any other contaminants are suspected, the oil should be
changed. Whenever the oil is changed, a new oil filter should always be used.
Oil contamination can also be tested for contaminate size and content, this may help in diagnosing an
issue.
If the oil is drained from the unit and replaced with new oil, the unit must be run for a total of 10 hours
after the change before another sample is taken for testing. This will acclimate the oil to the unit and give
more conclusive results during testing.
SELECTING THE OIL
When buying oil, remember there is no other single factor more important to the unit’s life and economic
operation than the quality of the oil used. Protect the oil from losing its proper condition by rigidly
following the inspection schedules and servicing of filters.
Our equipment has been quality engineered for quality oils. The finely machined cylinder and valve
components cannot be expected to withstand abuse due to improper care of the hydraulic system. The
most economical operation of the hydraulic system results from the use of a premium quality oil and
conscientious preventative maintenance in accordance with this manual.
Load King recommends the following oil, because of its quality and availability.