Why does a Caterpillar excavator suddenly lose power while the engine continues to run perfectly?
The answer often lies in the hydraulic system. One of the most common issues is a failing hydraulic pump. Without the right tools, diagnosing this problem can take hours—or even days. With Jaltest INFO Web, the process becomes fast, precise, and efficient.
In this case study, we explore how a hydraulic pump diagnosis was carried out on a Caterpillar excavator using Jaltest INFO Web.
Why a Caterpillar Excavator Hydraulic Pump Diagnosis Is Crucial
Caterpillar excavators rely entirely on hydraulics—digging, lifting, rotating—all depend on the hydraulic pump. When it fails, operations halt immediately. The challenge is that symptoms often look alike: low pressure, unusual noises, or overheating. Performing a proper hydraulic pump diagnosis with Jaltest INFO Web ensures you pinpoint the real issue.
With Jaltest INFO Web, technicians gain access to:
- Detailed repair guides
- Electrical and hydraulic diagrams
- A complete fault code database
- Testing and calibration procedures
Result: less downtime, faster repairs, and reduced costly immobilization.
Required Tools and Components
For a reliable hydraulic pump diagnosis, you need:
- Jaltest INFO Web for interpreting codes
- A Caterpillar-compatible diagnostic interface
- Hydraulic pressure gauges
- Standard workshop tools (wrenches, cleaning materials, multimeter)
Each element is crucial: gauges verify actual pressure, while Jaltest INFO Web guides the technician in interpreting ECU signals.
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Process
1. Read Fault Codes
- The ECU reported a low hydraulic pressure fault.
2. Inspect Wiring and Connectors
- Pressure sensor connections were checked and cleaned.
3. Consult Jaltest INFO Web
- The platform instructed testing the hydraulic pressure sensor and the regulator valve.
4. Pressure Test
- Gauges confirmed a pressure drop under load.
5. Pump Inspection
- Internal wear was detected upon disassembly.
6. Repair and Recalibration
- Faulty parts replaced, then recalibrated via Jaltest.
Example Case:
- Code: Hydraulic pressure too low
- Actions: Wiring check → hydraulic test → pump inspection
- Solution: Replace worn regulator valve + recalibration
- Time Saved: ~3 hours compared to manual troubleshooting
Practical Tips
- Always record fault codes before clearing them.
- Use Jaltest diagrams to quickly target the correct circuit.
- Perform pressure tests under load: idle, half-load, and full-load conditions.
Other Possible Causes
Not all hydraulic faults come from the pump. They may also be caused by:
- A clogged filter
- Degraded hydraulic oil
- Worn actuators or cylinders
Jaltest INFO Web helps prevent misdiagnosis and ensures you fix the actual problem.
Conclusion
A hydraulic pump failure can completely immobilize a Caterpillar excavator. But with Jaltest INFO Web, diagnosis becomes clear, fast, and reliable.
âś… Save time
âś… Reduce repair costs
âś… Keep your machines in service longer
Don’t let a hydraulic failure stop your projects. Test Jaltest INFO Web and transform the way you diagnose issues.
