Hello, I have this old wheel loader. It has a pressurized hydraulic tank, think some sort of compressor off the engine. Hydraulic oil keeps getting water in in, think it is condensation from the pressurized air. Does anyone have any ideas how to keep the water out? Currently have to change the oil at least twice a year and cannot use in the winter. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you.
What kind of compressor off the engine? If it's really condensation from the air, then I bet there's an air leak and a constant flow of air, when it should build pressure and stop flowing air. More common ways of getting water in oil would be leaking seals on something sitting outside, or leaks into the tank through a crack or cap. You can dry out oil reasonably simply. Either drain the oil or do it right in the tank. Heat the oil and bubble air through it, if it's in the tank you'll want the top of the tank hotter than the oil to prevent a condensation mess inside the tank. There are other ways to dry out oil, that's the simplest in my opinion. You'll have to repeat it several times, as the oil in the cylinders will still have water in it, so you'll want it set up to be convenient. Rig up a water heater element in the tank, and a hose to hook to small compressor or junked refrigerator compressor, then it will be easy to plug it in overnight after using it.
Thanks for the information. Now that you mention it I don’t think there is a pressure cut out on the tank, or one that is working anyways. I will check that out in spring. Thanks again!