Hydraulic Filter Function and Replacement Method Details

Hydraulic systems are at the heart of agricultural machinery and construction equipment. Hydraulic filters play an important role in this system. Many tractors, excavators and other equipment have hydraulic filters in their hydraulic systems. Its presence keeps the hydraulic fluid clean and prevents contaminants from damaging mechanical parts. So, what exactly is a hydraulic filter? What are its important roles? How often does it need to be replaced? If you are a Kubota tractor owner, how do you change the hydraulic filter? Today, MyMROmarts will answer these questions and help you better maintain the life of your Kubota tractor.

 

What Is a Hydraulic Filter?

Hydraulic filters are used in hydraulic systems to filter impurities and contaminants such as metal shavings, dust, waste, etc. from the hydraulic fluid. With its help hydraulic oil flows through the hydraulic components without causing clogging. Hydraulic oil is the working medium in the hydraulic system. It carries the energy transfer of mechanical components. When the oil is contaminated, it will directly affect the operating efficiency of the system and the life of the machinery. Therefore, hydraulic filters exist to avoid this situation.

 

Hydraulic filters usually consist of a filter element and a filter housing. The cartridge is the core part of filtering impurities. It is usually made of highly efficient filtering materials such as synthetic fibers and stainless steel mesh. This enables the filtering of tiny particles. The filter housing is the outer shell that supports the filter cartridge and is usually made of steel. The presence of the filter shell ensures that the cartridge is able to withstand high-pressure working environments.

 

What Does a Hydraulic Filter Do?

1. Filter impurities and contaminants

Hydraulic oil in the hydraulic system after long-term use, it is inevitable that the outside world will be contaminated with dust, metal shavings, and other pollutants. Hydraulic filter is used to filter these impurities, to avoid them in the hydraulic system, such as hydraulic pumps, valves, actuators, etc., to reduce failure.

 

2. Protect the hydraulic system

Hydraulic system components usually need to work in a high-pressure, high-temperature environment. Any tiny contaminants can cause serious damage to them. By filtering impurities, the hydraulic filter can prevent unnecessary wear and tear caused by contaminants. Extend the service life of the hydraulic system to a certain extent.

 

3. Improve work efficiency

Impurities in the oil will increase the friction of the hydraulic pump and pipeline. By cleaning the oil, the hydraulic filter can reduce friction and improve the system's efficiency and responsiveness.

 

How Often to Change Hydraulic Filter?

The replacement interval for hydraulic filters depends on the environment in which they are used, the quality of the hydraulic fluid, and the intensity of the equipment's operation. Generally speaking, the replacement interval for hydraulic filters is 200 to 500 hours. Equipment used under high loads or in harsh environments will require more frequent filter changes. According to most experts, it is common to replace it at half the ‘recommended replacement interval’.

 

The best time for Kubota hydraulic filter replacement is usually when the hydraulic fluid is heavily contaminated or when the pressure in the hydraulic system is abnormal. When you notice a drop in hydraulic system pressure, a slowdown in efficiency, or a darkening of the oil colour, it's time to check and replace the hydraulic filter. This is an indication that it's time to check and replace your hydraulic filter.

 

How to Change the Hydraulic Filter on a Kubota Tractor?

1. Prepare tools and materials:

New Kubota tractor hydraulic filter (choose the one that fits your Kubota tractor model)

spanner

Funnel

Hydraulic fluid (for use when changing fluid)

Gloves and protective eyewear

 

2. Stop and cool the hydraulic system

Stop and cool the tractor before starting operation. Doing so prevents the hydraulic fluid from overheating or coming under too much pressure. Prevent injury during your subsequent operations.

 

3. Locate the hydraulic filter

Open the front cover of the Kubota tractor or the maintenance compartment of the hydraulic system to find the location of the hydraulic filter. Usually, the hydraulic filter is installed near the hydraulic pump. It looks like a cylindrical metal housing.

 

4. Remove the old filter

Use a spanner to remove the old hydraulic filter. At this point, some hydraulic fluid may flow out. It is recommended that you have a container ready to catch the oil to avoid soiling the floor.

 

5. Installing the new filter

When installing a new hydraulic filter, mate it well with the connector and tighten it in place. Check that the filter is secure to avoid leakage.

 

6. Check and replenish hydraulic oil

After replacing the hydraulic filter, check the hydraulic oil level. When the oil level is insufficient, replenish the hydraulic oil as needed. Be careful to use the same specification and brand as the original hydraulic oil.

 

7. Start the hydraulic system and check

Start the tractor, run the hydraulic system, and check the newly installed filter for leaks. When the hydraulic system runs smoothly and there is no leakage, the replacement operation is complete.