Preventative Hydraulic System Maintenance

By Sammuel MacMullin | Proven Mining Solutions Inc.

Let’s talk hydraulics—the lifeblood of your equipment. When things are running smooth, you barely think about it. But let it go unchecked, and suddenly you’re dealing with slow cylinders, blown hoses, and downtime you do not have time for.

Here’s how we stay ahead of it at Proven Mining—and why you should too.

🔎 Why Preventative Maintenance Matters

1. Hydraulic failures don’t give much warning.

It usually starts as a slow lift, or maybe a pressure drop. Next thing you know, a hose lets go in the middle of the job and you’re mopping up oil while the work backs up.

2. Downtime costs more than just parts.

A $90 fitting is cheap. But the machine sitting idle? That’s thousands lost in production, plus possible cleanup and rescheduling headaches.

3. It keeps your operators safe.

Hydraulic systems run at massive pressure. A line failure can turn dangerous, fast. Regular checks help prevent serious injuries on the job.

✅ What to Check On the Regular

🔧 Fluid Condition

Look for milky appearance (water), metallic sheen (wear), or the smell of burnt oil. If it looks or smells off—it probably is.

🔧 Hoses, Fittings & Seals

Check for cracks, leaks, or bulging. When changing a hose, always inspect the ones around it. Chances are they’re the same age.

🔧 Filters & Bypass Indicators

Clogged filters = contaminated fluid. Stick to your changeout schedule and watch those bypass lights.

🔧 System Pressures & Temps

Watch your gauges. Unusual spikes or overheating could point to restrictions or deeper issues.

🔧 Fluid Compatibility

Mixing the wrong types can damage seals and cause foaming. Always use OEM-recommended hydraulic fluids, and store them properly.

🧠 Pro Tip from the Field

If you’re topping off the reservoir more than once between services? You’ve got a leak—small now, but it won’t stay that way.

📞 We’ve Got You Covered

Whether it's a pre-season check, a service call in -30°, or just help diagnosing something odd, Proven Mining Solutions has your back.

📞 587‑723‑8777

🌐 provenmining.ca