How can you tell if the hydraulic system is working properly?

The best way to determine if the hydraulic system is functioning properly is by observing the normal function and response of any implemented attachments. When the hydraulic system is in good working order, the attachments--such as loaders, dozers, or other implements--will operate smoothly and efficiently. This includes checking how quickly and effectively they raise, lower, or tilt as commanded.

A properly functioning hydraulic system will provide adequate pressure and flow, allowing the attachments to perform their intended tasks without delay or excessive force. If the attachments respond promptly and consistently to operator commands, it indicates that the hydraulic system is adequately pressurized and that there are no leaks or blockages disrupting flow.

Other methods, such as checking hydraulic fluid color, listening for unusual noises, or feeling the hydraulic lines, might provide some insights into the system's condition, but they are not as direct or reliable as observing the actual operational performance of the attachments. Changes in fluid color might not be immediately indicative of performance issues, while unusual noises could be symptoms of other problems that are not directly related to the hydraulic system's basic operation. Additionally, feeling the hydraulic lines could provide some information about temperature or the presence of leaks, but it does not give a comprehensive assessment of the overall system functionality.