In your last hydraulics bulletin, we talked about the invisible but often significant cost of air leaks. Today I want to change tack again and talk about something you’ve likely had a go at: repairing cylinders.

Hydraulic cylinders are less complicated than other types of hydraulic components and are therefore relatively easy to repair. As a result, many hydraulic equipment owners or their maintenance personnel repair their own cylinders. And this is why, when I wrote Insider Secrets to Hydraulics, I included a whole chapter about carrying out effective repairs on hydraulic cylinders.

This section of my book prompts a lot of questions from do-it-yourself cylinder repairers. One of the more common ones is: Is it necessary to deglaze the cylinder tube and how do you do it?

While it’s not always necessary, it’s usually a good idea. After long periods in service, the internal surface of cylinder tubes can actually become too smooth. As a result, the replacement seals may leak. Deglazing/deburring also removes spot rust and other minor surface imperfections, which is essential for optimum seal life.

The tool that’s most often used for this job is a Flex-Hone. The correct technique for using one is shown in the video “How to Use a Flex-Hone.”

If you get involved in the repair of hydraulic cylinders, it’s well worth three minutes of your time to watch it.

Yours for better hydraulics knowledge,

Brendan Casey