How to Check Hydraulic Oil Level on an Excavator

Table of contents

1. TL;DR
2. Why Should You Check the Hydraulic Fluid Level?
3. Safety First: Proper Preparation
4. How to Check Hydraulic Fluid: Two Methods
5. Additional Tips for Proper Hydraulic Oil Maintenance
6. Need Help with Your Hydraulic Fluid Check?
7. Frequently Asked Questions

TL;DR

• Hydraulic oil distributes engine-driven pump power to run essential excavator subsystems including the travel track motors, the 360-degree slew system, boom and stick cylinders, and mounted hydraulic attachments.
• Prior to checking fluid, safe machine preparation requires parking the excavator on flat ground, completely cutting the engine, and relieving system pressure in the reservoir.
• Checking operations utilize either a manual dipstick requiring cleaning and re-checking, or a transparent sight glass indicating direct levels and fluid color/clarity.
• Fluid maintenance requires using correct manufacturer oil specifications, conducting scheduled level checks, keeping the caps clean, and performing complete oil changes if fluid appears cloudy or dark.

When it comes to proper maintenance of your machine, checking fluid levels is one of the standard checks you should always perform. Among all machine fluids, hydraulic oil constitutes perhaps the most vital component - without it, your system simply won't function. That's why we'd like to devote this guide to helping you check hydraulic fluid levels in your excavator like a pro.

Why Should You Check the Hydraulic Fluid Level?

Let's make it clear: without hydraulic oil, your machine would not work at all. The hydraulic system is responsible for power distribution throughout your excavator, so every action the machine performs happens thanks to proper hydraulic fluid levels.

Your excavator can move forward and back thanks to the hydraulic track motor (left and right). This motor gets its power from oil coming from the main pump connected to the engine. The machine can also swivel around 360 degrees thanks to the slew motor, which is powered by the same hydraulic system. The hydraulic circuit connects with cylinders that operate the boom and stick as well.

Many attachments mounted on excavators - including augers, buckets, hammers, and more - work thanks to proper hydraulic flow. Now it's clear that hydraulic systems are crucial for excavator operation. Ensuring appropriate oil level is one way to make sure your excavator runs smoothly and efficiently, day after day.

Safety First: Proper Preparation

Before you can check anything, you need to ensure proper safety. Always park your machine on level ground - this gives you the most accurate reading possible. The excavator should be switched off completely, and you should take the key out of the ignition.

One thing that may not be obvious: make sure there's no pressure in the tank before you remove any cap. Also, let the engine cool down if it's been running hot, as working with hot oil could be dangerous.

How to Check Hydraulic Fluid: Two Methods

There are two ways to check hydraulic oil levels, depending on your excavator model. You'll use either a dipstick or a sight glass method. We'll walk you through both - just choose the one that applies to your machine.

Dipstick Method: The Traditional Way

This method works if your excavator has a dipstick for hydraulic oil level checks. It's easier than you might think.

Locate and Clean the Dipstick

The dipstick is usually found near the hydraulic pump or reservoir with the fluid. Look for a stick labeled with a special symbol or the word "hydraulic." Once you locate it, clean the dipstick thoroughly with a cloth or rag to get rid of any dirt or debris - this ensures an accurate reading every time.

Remove the Dipstick and Check the Oil Level

Carefully pull the clean dipstick out of the pump or reservoir (don't drop it!). You'll see two marks on the stick: high and low marks. The hydraulic fluid level should be between those two marks. If it's not, you'll need to add or remove oil to get the proper level.

Adding or Removing Oil

Take care when pouring new oil into the hydraulic oil tank - go slowly to avoid spills. If you need to remove excess oil, use a turkey baster or small pump to extract it without making a mess. At this stage, it's crucial to use the correct oil type for your engine model. Using the wrong hydraulic oil may cause system failure or even damage your excavator.

Reinsert the Dipstick and Recheck

After adding or removing fluid, make sure the oil level is right where it should be. Insert the dipstick back into the hydraulic reservoir and check that the mark falls in the proper range. If it's still not right, repeat the previous step until you get it just right.

Sight Glass Method: Visual Inspection

This method applies if your excavator has a dedicated sight glass for hydraulic oil level checks.

Locate and Clean the Sight Glass

The sight glass looks like a tiny clear window or panel located right next to the hydraulic pump or reservoir. It'll be labeled with a special symbol or the word "hydraulic." Once you find it, use a cloth or rag to wipe it clean - you need a clear view to get an accurate reading.

Look Through to Check the Oil Level

Look through the clean glass and locate the oil level indicator. Check whether the hydraulic fluid is between the high and low marks. The oil should be clearly visible, and you should be able to see its color - clean oil typically looks clear or amber, while dirty oil may appear dark or cloudy.

Adding or Removing Oil

If you need to add oil, carefully pour it into the pump or reservoir at the top. To remove excess oil, use a turkey baster or small pump to extract it. Always make sure you use the correct hydraulic oil type for your specific engine model. Using incorrect fluid could damage your transmission or other system components.

Recheck the Oil Level

After making adjustments, look through the sight glass again to ensure the fluid level is properly positioned between the high and low marks. If it's still not right, repeat the process from the previous step. 

Additional Tips for Proper Hydraulic Oil Maintenance

Check Your Manual: Always consult your operator's manual for specific instructions related to your tractor or excavator model. Different machines may have unique requirements.

Regular Service Schedule: Don't wait until there's a problem. Check your hydraulic fluid levels regularly as part of your routine maintenance.

Replace When Needed: If the oil looks dirty, has debris in it, or has changed color significantly, it may be time for a complete fluid change rather than just topping off.

Keep It Clean: Always replace the cap properly after checking, and keep dirt and debris away from the hydraulic system openings.

Need Help with Your Hydraulic Fluid Check?

If you're still not sure about the proper way to check hydraulic fluid levels, don't worry. Skidsteers.com not only has an impressive range of excavator attachments, but we're also experts in the field. We'll gladly advise you on the types of attachments, oils, and fluids, and give you clear directions if you're having trouble with your hydraulic oil check.

Remember: proper hydraulic fluid maintenance keeps your machine running strong and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road. When in doubt, it's always better to check one more time than to risk damage to your valuable equipment.

Give us a call on 1-866-315-3134 or message us for more details - we're here to help you keep your machine in top condition!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why must pressure be relieved from the tank before checking the hydraulic oil?

Relieving system pressure in the reservoir before removing any tank cap is a critical safety precaution. Removing caps under pressure or checking hot fluid can cause dangerous blowouts of hot hydraulic fluid.

How do you differentiate clean hydraulic oil from dirty oil?

Clean hydraulic oil typically appears clear or amber in color. If the oil appears dark, cloudy, or contains visible debris, it indicates contamination and it may be time for a complete fluid change rather than just topping it off.

What happens if you use the wrong type of hydraulic fluid in an excavator?

Using an incorrect or unapproved hydraulic oil type for a specific model can lead to system failures, loss of operating pressure, or permanent damage to the transmission and other high-precision hydraulic system components.