- Agricultural Tractor
- All
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- All
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- All
- Backhoe Loader
- All
- Challenger
- All
- Cold Planer
- All
- Combine
- All
- Compact Track Loader
- All
- Compact Wheel Loader
- All
- Continuous Miner
- All
- Earthmoving Compactor
- All
- Electric Rope Shovel
- 7495 (S/N: ER61-UP)
- 7495 HF (S/N: ER81-UP)
- Excavator
- All
- All Mining Shovels
- Forest Products
- All
- Hydraulic Shovel
- All
- Integrated Toolcarrier
- All
- Landfill Compactor
- All
- Load Haul Dump
- All
- Material Handler
- All
- Mini Hydraulic Excavator
- All
- Motor Grader
- All
- Multi Terrain Loader
- All
- Off-Highway Truck/Tractor
- All
- Paving Compactor
- All
- Pipelayer
- All
- Road Reclaimer/Soil Stabilizer
- All
- Rotary Drill
- All
- Skid Steer Loader
- All
- Soil Compactor
- All
- Telehandler
- All
- Track Drills
- All
- Track Feller Buncher
- Blount Branded
- Caterpillar
- Timberking Branded
- Caterpillar
- Track-Type Loader
- All
- Track-Type Skidder
- All
- Track-Type Tractor
- All
- Underground Articulated Truck
- All
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- All
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- All
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Introduction
Revision | Summary of Changes in SEBF8072 |
47 | Updated Illustration 63 |
46 | Updated Effectivity |
45 | Updated Effectivity |
44 | Updated Effectivity |
43 | Updated Effectivity |
© 2019 Caterpillar All Rights Reserved. This guideline is for the use of Caterpillar Dealers only. Unauthorized use of this document or the proprietary processes therein without permission may be violation of intellectual property law. Information contained in this document is considered Caterpillar: Confidential Yellow.
This guideline enables dealers and dealer customers to benefit from cost reductions made possible through an established parts reusability and salvage program. Every effort has been made to provide the most current information known to Caterpillar Inc. Since the company makes ongoing product changes and product improvements, this guideline must be used with the latest technical information. Using the latest technical information available from Caterpillar ensures that such changes and improvements are incorporated where applicable.
For questions or additional information concerning this guideline, submit a feedback form in the Service Information System web site. To address an urgent need, use the following to forward your request to Caterpillar Repair Process Engineering:
- Cat Dealer Technical Communicator
- Global Dealer Solution Network
- Cat Technical Representative
- Knowledge Network
Canceled Part Numbers and Replaced Part Numbers
This document may not include canceled part numbers and replaced part numbers. Use NPR on SIS for information about canceled part numbers and replaced part numbers. NPR will provide the current part numbers for replaced parts.
Summary
Often, the replacement of worn or damaged hydraulic cylinder components with new parts is not the best repair option. After being reconditioned and/or salvaged, original parts can be expected to give normal performance and life.
This guideline includes illustrations of used hydraulic cylinder components. Some of the components can be used again with salvage (reconditioning) operations. Additionally, this guideline defines procedures to salvage cylinder components, if necessary. If replacement parts are required, Caterpillar recommends using Caterpillar replacement parts or parts with equivalent specifications.
Never install a part this guideline shows cannot be used again. As with any repair, correct the conditions that caused the original failure or wear.
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
Important Safety Information
Illustration 1 | g02139237 |
Work safely. Most accidents that involve product operation, maintenance, and repair are caused by failure to observe basic safety rules or precautions. An accident can often be avoided by recognizing potentially hazardous situations before an accident occurs. A person must be alert to potential hazards. This person should also have the necessary training, skills, and tools to perform these functions properly. Safety precautions and warnings are provided in this instruction and on the product. If these hazard warnings are not heeded, bodily injury or death could occur to you or to other persons. Caterpillar cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a potential hazard. Therefore, the warnings in this publication and the warnings that are on the product are not all inclusive. If a tool, a procedure, a work method, or operating technique that is not recommended by Caterpillar is used, Ensure that the procedure is safe for you and for other people to use. Ensure that the product will not be damaged or be made unsafe by the operation, lubrication, maintenance, or the repair procedures that are used.
Improper operation, lubrication, maintenance or repair of this product can be dangerous and could result in injury or death. Do not operate or perform any lubrication, maintenance or repair on this product, until you have read and understood the operation, lubrication, maintenance and repair information. |
Safety precautions and warnings are provided in this manual and on the product. If these hazard warnings are not heeded, bodily injury or death could occur to you or to other persons.
The hazards are identified by the safety alert symbol which is followed by a signal word danger, warning, or caution. The "WARNING" safety alert symbol is shown below.
Illustration 2 | g00008666 |
This safety alert symbol means:
Pay attention!
Become alert!
Your safety is involved.
The message that appears under the safety alert symbol explains the hazard.
Operations that may cause product damage are identified by "NOTICE" labels on the product and in this publication.
Caterpillar cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a potential hazard. The safety information in this document and the safety information on the machine are not all inclusive. Determine that the tools, procedures, work methods, and operating techniques are safe. Determine that the operation, lubrication, maintenance, and repair procedures will not damage the machine. Also, determine that the operation, lubrication, maintenance, and repair procedures will not make the machine unsafe.
The information, the specifications, and the illustrations that exist in this guideline are based on information which was available at the time of publication. The specifications, torques, pressures, measurements, adjustments, illustrations, and other items can change at any time. These changes can affect the service that is given to the product. Obtain the complete, most current information before you start any job. Caterpillar dealers can supply the most current information.
Safety
Sudden movement of the machine or release of oil under pressure can cause injury to persons on or near the machine. To prevent possible injury, perform the procedure that follows before testing and adjusting the steering system. |
Personal injury can result from hydraulic oil pressure and hot oil. Hydraulic oil pressure can remain in the hydraulic system after the engine has been stopped. Serious injury can be caused if this pressure is not released before any service is done on the hydraulic system. Make sure all of the attachments have been lowered, oil is cool before removing any components or lines. Remove the oil filler cap only when the engine is stopped, and the filler cap is cool enough to touch with your bare hand. |
NOTICE |
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Care must be taken to ensure that fluids are contained during performance of inspection, maintenance, testing, adjusting, and repair of the product. Be prepared to collect the fluid with suitable containers before opening any compartment or disassembling any component containing fluids. Refer to Special Publication, PERJ1017, "Dealer Service Tool Catalog" for tools and supplies suitable to collect and contain fluids on Cat® products. Dispose of all fluids according to local regulations and mandates. |
References
Media Number | Title |
SEHS9538 | Tool Operating Manual,"Using the 9U-6463 Hone Group and Attachments" |
NEHS0627 | "Tool Operating Manual for the 1U-9001 and 1U-9002 Automatic Hone Tooling" |
NEHS0901 | "Tool Operating Manual for the 233-2225 Hydraulic Cylinder Hone" |
NEHS0927 | "Procedures for Using the 250-6597 Cylinder Washer Tank Group" |
REHS2689 | "Hydraulic Cylinder Honing" |
PEKP1020 | "Hydraulic Cylinder and Seal Reference Guide" |
SEBF9233 | "HVOF Identification and Polishing" |
SEBF9276 | "Thermal Spray Procedure for Hydraulic Cylinder Rods" |
SEBF9238 | "Fundamentals of Arc Spray for Reconditioning Components" |
SEBF9240 | "Fundamentals of Flame Spray for Reconditioning Components" |
SEBF9236 | "Fundamentals of High Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF) Spray for Reconditioning Components" |
NENG2500 | "Dealer Service Tool Catalog" |
PECJ0003 | "Hand Tools and Shop Supplies" |
To obtain a tool operating manual for the HTA4000Sunnen Hone, contact Sunnen directly. The supplier address can be found under the "Equipment Suppliers" section.
Tooling and Equipment
Tooling | |
Part Number | Part Description |
Cylinder Washer Gp | |
Rust Preventative | |
Rust Preventative | |
Rust Preventative | |
Honing Oil | |
Honing Oil | |
Brake Cleaner | |
Penetrating Oil | |
Developer | |
Wire Brush | |
- | Cloth or Wipes |
Crack Detection Kit |
Optional Tooling | |
HTA-4000 | Sunnen Hone |
Cleaning
Personal injury can result from air pressure. Personal injury can result without following proper procedure. When using pressurized air, wear a protective face shield and protective clothing. Maximum air pressure at the nozzle must be less than |
Wash all dirt, grease, oil, and contaminants from the cylinder assembly. If the cylinder is dirty, a high-pressure washer may be required to remove all the unwanted material. Cleaning the inside and outside of the cylinder is important. To achieve an accurate inspection, the cylinder must be cleaned properly. Proper cleaning also prevents outside contamination from entering the hone oil supply.
If the cylinder is not going to be honed within two days of cleaning, apply a generous coat of 222-3121 Rust Preventive or 1U-8809 Caterpillar 450 Rust Preventative Oil. In EAME, order 185-4125 Caterpillar 450 Rust Preventative Oil. The rust preventative prevents rust from forming on the unfinished portion of the cylinder walls.
Inspection
Perform an inspection on the cylinder before significant time is spent on the honing process. Following the proper inspection process eliminates unnecessary cylinder repairs. Inspect cylinders thoroughly to aid in the decision of future action. These actions may include having the cylinder retubed or purchasing a remanufactured cylinder from Caterpillar.
Cylinder Nomenclature
Illustration 3 | g01585543 |
The three Caterpillar cylinder designs: (A) Bolted Head Cylinder, (B) Threaded Crown Cylinder (C) Threaded Gland Cylinder. (1) Eye (2) Weld Joint (3) Flange (4) Bolt on Head (5) Bolts (6) Tube (7) End Cap (8) External Threads (9) Head (10) Threaded Crown (11) Trunnion Bearings (12) Trunnion (13) Internal Threads (14) Threaded Gland |
Inspection and Reuse of Tubes
Illustration 4 | g03359136 |
Vertical Scratch with raised (above surface level) edges. Use again after salvaging the tube by honing. |
Illustration 5 | g03359154 |
Heavier vertical scratches in the bore. Use again after salvaging the tube by either honing oversize or by retubing if rust pitting is deeper than |
Note: Some of the tubes in the Illustrations that follow were cut to show the damage more clearly.
Illustration 6 | g03359171 |
Wear and light rust Use again after salvaging the tube by honing. |
Illustration 7 | g03359188 |
Rust in cylinder bore Use again after salvaging the tube either by honing oversize or retubing if rust pitting is deeper than |
Illustration 8 | g03359202 |
Heavy rust in cylinder bore Use again after salvaging the tube either by honing oversize or retubing if rust pitting is deeper than |
Illustration 9 | g03359211 |
Heavy cylinder bore damage Use again after salvaging the tube by retubing. |
Illustration 10 | g03359219 |
Dent in the tube Use again after salvaging the tube by retubing. |
Illustration 11 | g03359416 |
Ruptured cylinder tube Use again after salvaging the tube by retubing. |
Retube
Cylinders that have dents or heavy scratches inside the bore cannot be used again unless reconditioned by retubing. Retubing is a procedure in which the end cap, eye, flange, and trunnion are removed from the cylinder tube and welded to a new tube. Refer to Illustrations 9,10, and 11.
The recommended material for this procedure is cold drawn-over mandrel (D.O.M.) or seamless SAE 1026 Honed ID (inside diameter) hydraulic cylinder tubing.
- Measure the damaged cylinder for correct size and length of tubing needed. Also refer to Hydraulic Cylinder & Seal Reference Guide, PEKP1020, for length and bore dimensions. For dealers with approved access to the Hydraulic Information System (H.I.S.) for Cylinder Dimensions, tube dimensions can be obtained after entering the tube part number. To obtain approval, select "Contact Us" on the H.I.S. web screen.
Note: Make note of the position or make alignment marks with a punch or marker on the eye, end cap, flange, mounting blocks and trunnion for assembly of the new tube.
Show/hide tableIllustration 12 g03358599 Use a torch to cut cylinder into sections. Show/hide tableIllustration 13 g01251883 Tube must be long enough to chuck into a lathe. - Cut off the end cap, trunnion, and flange sections with a torch or band saw. Make sure that there is enough tube remaining to chuck each section into a lathe. Refer to Illustrations 12 and 13.
Show/hide table
Illustration 14 g01251887 Tube in position ready to machine. - Put the tube section in the lathe. Machine the weld from the flange, eye, and cap, or trunnion until the part is cut free of tube. Refer to Illustrations 13 and 14.
- Make necessary repairs to the flange, eye or cap, and trunnion. Refer to the “Welding” section in this guideline for details.
Show/hide table
Illustration 15 g01621637 (A) Machined Tube
(3) Flange
(6) TubeShow/hide tableIllustration 16 g01584859 Typical dimensions to machine the ends of a new tube. Specifications can be different, according to type of tube used.
(15) 15° chamfer
(16)1.52 mm (0.060 inch) - cap end
(17)6.35 mm (0.250 inch) radius
(18)9.65 mm (0.380 inch) - head end - Machine the new tube to length. Machine the head end and the bottom end (where the end cap will go) to the same specifications as old tube. The end of tube (6) that is welded to flange (3) must also be machined to a slightly smaller diameter (A). Refer to Illustration 15. This machining is done so that flange (3) can slide onto tube (6). Refer to Illustration 16 for dimensions to machine.
Note: Tube (6) should be slightly longer than the final specification length. This added length allows the end of tube (6) to be machined flush with flange (3) after flange (3) is welded in place.
Show/hide tableIllustration 17 g01251907 Use the correct wire or electrode to weld new tube. - Assemble the flange, end cap, or eye, and/or trunnion to new tube. Orient the parts with alignment marks made earlier.
- Weld the end cap or eye, flange, and/or trunnion to new tube. Use solid electrode wire that is acceptable according to AWS class E70S-IB or E7018 electrode. Do not use flux-cored electrode to weld end cap in place. Also, weld any mounting or lifting brackets to tube. Refer to Illustration 17.
- Welding will cause the tube to shrink by approximately
0.05 mm (0.002 inch) in the welded area. Lightly hone the tube back to the specified size in the following areas: the flange, trunnion, and end cap or eye.
Hone
Hydraulic cylinders are honed to ensure that the proper surface finish is restored on the cylinder walls. Honing also brings the cylinder bore back to the correct size and roundness. Another purpose of hydraulic cylinder honing is refinishing the bore that has been in previous service. Refinishing involves the removal of scratches and/or rust that is on the cylinder walls. An improper surface finish will prevent new seals from providing a good seal on the cylinder wall. The cylinder may leak and unexpected performance might occur. The surface roughness needs to be within a specified range. If the surface is too rough, the seal will not last for the intended life. If the surface is too smooth, proper oil retention on the cylinder walls will be inadequate. The seal may get hot due to friction which is a cause of premature failure. Honing is used to scuff a smooth or glazed cylinder surface. Honing gives the cylinder a texture that will hold oil. Honing also provides lubrication for the piston seal and the wear ring. Honing will also correct noticeable distortion in cylinder bores out of round, bell mouth, barrel, taper, and minor dents.
For more information on hydraulic cylinder honing, refer to Special Instruction, REHS2689, "Hydraulic Cylinder Honing".
Cleaning
The honing process creates a large quantity of abrasive particles that must be cleaned from the cylinder before the cylinder is resealed. The abrasives are either stone particles, the binder used to hold the stone particles together, guide material, or metal shavings from the cylinder bore. Abrasives can cause accelerated wear to hydraulic cylinder seals and other components in the hydraulic system if not properly removed from the cylinder bore.
After honing, allow the honing oil to drain from the cylinder assembly. Properly wash the cylinder assembly inside diameter using the 250-6597 Cylinder Washer available from Dealer Service Tools, or equivalent. Reference the Tool Operating Manual, NEHS0927, "Procedures for Using the 250-6597 Cylinder Washer Tank Group" for operating and repair instructions.
Oversize Honing
Current advances in cylinder seal technology allow for possible cylinder assembly salvage by oversized honing. Usual bore refinishing (glaze removal) increases the ID (inside diameter) of the cylinder assembly less than
Cylinders that are honed and the inside diameter is not greater than
Cylinders that operate at pressures up to
Cylinders that operate over
Depending on the operating pressure, if the bore scratches cannot be removed by honing
Before honing a cylinder assembly oversize, check the availability of oversize seals for the cylinder being repaired. Refer to the latest seal kit IRM (Information Release Memo), PSK (Parts Sales Kit), or the Hydraulic Cylinder & Seal Reference Guide, PEKP1020.
Honing Equipment
Caterpillar offers a manual hone and a semi-automatic hone. For specific information about these tools, contact Dealer Service Tools.
Oversize Cylinders
Depending on operating pressure, the dealer may choose to oversize the bore of the cylinder up to
Oversize Identification
After a cylinder has been honed oversize, the cylinder must be identified as having an oversize bore. One identification method is to stamp ".030 OS" on the tube OD close to the open end of the tube. If possible, locate stamp so the stamp can be read after cylinder is installed on machine.
Another method of identifying oversize cylinders is to stamp the amount of oversize on the metal tag that identifies the cylinder group part number. The stamp should be a minimum of
Oversize Threaded-Gland Cylinder
Illustration 18 | g01592418 |
Threaded gland with standard head seal (19) Head seal |
The head seal for the oversize threaded gland cylinder is the standard O-ring and back-up ring. Refer to Illustration 18.
Oversize Threaded Crown Cylinder
Illustration 19 | g01582913 |
Threaded crown with oval seal (A) O-ring groove (9) Head (20) Oval seal |
The head seal for the oversize threaded-crown cylinder is an oval cross-section seal (20). The head seal fits in the lead-in chamfer at the open end of the cylinder. The O-ring and back-up ring groove (A) in head (9) is left empty.
Oval Seal Part Numbers for Oversize Threaded Crown Cylinders | |
Standard Bore Size | Oversize Head Seal |
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Threaded Crown Cylinder Assembly Chamfer Dimensions
Oversize threaded crown cylinders are sealed by using an oval head seal that locates in the lead-in chamfer of the cylinder bore. Chamfers that do not meet specifications will cause leaks.
Illustration 20 | g01583516 |
(E) Standard bore
(F) (H) (J) (L) 15° (6) Tube (9) Head (21) Oval Head Seal |
If the chamfer is too deep, the chamfer can be shortened by machining a maximum of
Oversize Bolted-Head Cylinder
Illustration 21 | g01583073 |
Bolted head with face O-ring seal. (3) Flange (4) Head (22) Groove for Face O-Ring Seal (23) Face O-ring Seal (24) Location of Stock Seal (25) Former location of Oval Seal |
The head seal for the oversize bolted-head cylinder is the same oval seal that is used in an oversize threaded-crown cylinder. The oversize bolted-head cylinder is now sealed at the head joint by an O-ring (23). This O-ring (23) provides a more effective seal than the oval head seal. The groove (24) for the stock seal is left empty.
O-ring Part Numbers and Groove Dimensions
Bolt-on head cylinder assemblies that have been honed oversize but lack the flange face O-ring groove can be reworked to add the groove. Machine new grooves according to the dimensions in Table 6. Make the groove concentric and perpendicular to the centerline of the bore. If the flange face of the cylinder assembly is damaged, the cylinder can be salvaged by machining away a maximum of
Note: Some cylinder assemblies have been dealer-reworked to add an O-ring groove to the flange face of the head rather than the cylinder. Do not assemble a cylinder that would mate a cylinder and head both having an O-ring groove.
Illustration 22 | g01583674 |
Seal Groove Width Dimensions. Refer to Table 6 for item references and dimensions. |
Seal Part Numbers and Machining Dimensions | |||||
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Nominal Bore Diameter | O-ring Part Number | Groove Diameter (A) | Groove Width (B) | Groove Depth (C) | Radius (D) |
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9X-7357 | |
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6S-3002 | |
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9X-7566 | |
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133-0128 | |
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3F-5792 | |
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131-3716 | |
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2D-8009 | |
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9X-7358 | |
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2K-8257 | |
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8T-6404 | |
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9X-7391 | |
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9D-8042 | |
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9D-8042 | |
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9X-7725 | |
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5J-2383 | |
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5J-2383 | |
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5J-2383 | |
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3J-0634 | |
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3J-0634 | |
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5P-3092 | |
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4K-6804 | |
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1T-0132 | |
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1M-9015 | |
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5S-3676 | |
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3S-3074 | |
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5P-2236 | |
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6V-3263 | |
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Nomenclature
Illustration 23 | g01622492 |
Cylinder Head nomenclature (bolted head). (26) O-ring seal and back-up ring head seal groove (27) Wiper seal counterbore (28) Head wear band groove (29) Buffer seal groove (30) U-cup seal groove |
Inspection and Reuse of Heads
Illustration 24 | g03396036 |
Light scratches in the bore Use again |
Illustration 25 | g03396038 |
Heavy scratches in the bore Use again after salvaging the bore by welding and machining. |
Salvage of Heads
Some cylinders can develop wear behind the U-cup seal. Cylinders also develop wear between the U-cup seal and the wiper seal. The worn areas can be machined to allow more room for welding. The seal grooves can then be machined back into place. If the U-cup seal is extruded, this repair should be considered. Seal extrusion is a factor of gap, temperature, and pressure. Typically, cylinders are engineered to have approximately
Illustration 26 | g01452053 |
The area behind the U-cup seal shown in black in Illustration 26 should be removed by machining. Machine a radius in the corner to allow for weld penetration. Build up the area by welding. Machine the groove back to the correct dimensions.
Installation of Head Wear Ring
More recent design of hydraulic cylinder heads includes a groove for a nylon wear ring. This wear ring prevents contact between the chrome rod and the hardened bore of the head. Heads not having the wear ring can easily be updated by machining a groove for the wear ring.
Numerous publications list the wear ring that is used with each head. Refer to Hydraulic Cylinder & Seal Reference Guide, PEKP1020 to select the proper wear ring.
The first machining operation requires the head bearing bore to be machined to
Machining dimensions for the new wear ring groove can be calculated as follows:
- Measure the thickness of the wear ring selected with a rounded anvil micrometer and record the measurement. Refer to Illustration 27.
- Measure the diameter of the chrome hydraulic cylinder rod and record this measurement.
- Add two times the thickness measurement found in Step 1 to the diameter measurement found in Step 2.
- Add
0.10 mm (0.004 inch) to the value obtained in Step 3.
Illustration 27 | g01252089 |
Measure the thickness of the wear ring selected and record the measurement. |
The value obtained in Step 4 is the diameter of the groove, which must be machined in the head for the new wear ring installation.
Illustration 28 | g01252092 |
Measure the width of the wear ring selected. |
The groove length is determined by measuring the width of the wear ring and adding
Illustration 29 | g01252128 |
Check the run-out of the bore with an indicator to make sure that the groove will be concentric to the bore. The Total Indicator Reading (TIR) must not exceed |
Illustration 30 | g01252131 |
Check the runout of the flange with an indicator to make sure that the groove will be perpendicular to the flange. The Total Indicator Reading (TIR) must not exceed |
Illustration 31 | g01252135 |
Carbide cutting tools are required to machine the hardened surface of the bore. |
Machining of the groove can be accomplished by using an engine lathe that has the chuck capacity to hold the head. Secure the head in the chuck. Measure the head with an indicator to make sure that the groove is concentric and perpendicular to the center-line of the bore. Refer to Illustrations 29 and 30. The total indicator reading (TIR) must not exceed
Cylinder Head Wear Band Reuse
Illustration 32 | g01588113 |
Example of a metal wear band removed for clarity. |
If a cylinder develops an early hour leak, reuse of the cylinder head wear band may be possible. Never reuse seals. Seals can be easily damaged during removal. Therefore, all seals should be replaced with new seals.
In the normal life span of a cylinder, the head wear band will develop normal wear along with the seals. Typically, the wiper seal will wear out before the wear band. All high hour cylinders should have all the seals and the wear band replaced after disassembly.
Note: Do not remove the metal wear band of the cylinder head for inspection. The metal wear band will be destroyed if removed.
Check the wear band for damage. Look for cracks, broken edges, or scratches. If any damage is found, do not reuse the wear band. If none of these issues are found, the metal wear band may be reused.
Inspection and Reuse of Pistons
Illustration 33 | g03396041 |
Light Scratches Use again after removing any sharp or raised edges with emery paper and/or file. |
Illustration 34 | g03396346 |
Light Scratches Use again after removing any sharp or raised edges with emery paper and/or file. |
Illustration 35 | g01252209 |
Remove raised and/or sharp edges with a file. |
Illustration 36 | g03358889 |
Remove sharp edges with 180 grit emery paper. |
Illustration 37 | g03396354 |
Piston with heavy scratches Use again after raised and/or sharp edges are removed with emery paper and/or file. |
Illustration 38 | g01252241 |
Piston after raised and/or sharp edges were removed. Use again |
Note: Do not decrease the diameter across the piston more than
Illustration 39 | g03396356 |
Heavy damage Do not use again |
Reuse of Nuts
Illustration 40 | g01252261 |
Piston retaining nut with nylon lock. Use Again Two types of piston retaining nuts with a nylon lock are shown. These nuts can be used again up to seven times. Make a mark on the exterior of the nut each time to indicate the number of times the nut has been used. |
Nomenclature
Illustration 41 | g01585375 |
Parts of a typical cylinder rod. (31) Rod Eye (32) Rod (33) Piston (34) Nut |
Inspection and Reuse of Rods
Illustration 42 | g03396434 |
Heavy scratches Use again after the rod is salvaged by chrome plating or HVOF spraying, grinding, and polishing. |
Illustration 43 | g06038728 |
Light scratches cannot be felt with a fingernail. Use again |
Illustration 44 | g06038730 |
Light scratches cannot be felt with a fingernail. Use again |
Illustration 45 | g03396441 |
Scored rod Use again after the rod is salvaged by chrome plating or HVOF spraying, grinding, and polishing. |
Note: Rods too deeply scored to be salvaged by chrome plating or HVOF spraying and grinding can be salvaged by welding. Salvage welding is acceptable for all rods except for rods used in steering cylinders, scraper bowl cylinders, and front suspension cylinders on trucks. If the scored area is small, the rod can also be salvaged by selective plating or selective HVOF spraying.
Illustration 46 | g03396445 |
Light pitting in the chrome plating or HVOF spraying that cannot be felt with a fingernail. Use again after the rod is salvaged by chrome plating or selective HVOF spraying, grinding, and polishing. |
Illustration 47 | g03396449 |
Pitting Use again after salvaging the rod by stripping, grinding, chrome plating or HVOF spraying and polishing. |
Illustration 48 | g03396455 |
Heavy pitting Use again after salvaging the rod by stripping, grinding, chrome plating and polishing. |
Illustration 49 | g06038729 |
Light pitting in the chrome plating can be felt with a fingernail. Use again after the rod is salvaged by chrome plating or HVOF spraying, grinding, and polishing. |
Illustration 50 | g06038731 |
Dent in the rod surface indicated by the arrow. Use again Use again after the rod is salvaged by selective plating or selective HVOF spraying. |
Note: Selective plating or selective HVOF spraying is only practical for the repair of small areas. For example, small areas of dents or pitting can be salvaged by this method.
Illustration 51 | g01585434 |
Typical damage to a cylinder rod. (35) Metal transfer (36) Pitting (37) Dents |
Individual dents (37) and small areas of pitting (36) can be salvaged by selective plating or selective HVOF spraying. Metal transfer (35), where metal has moved from one surface to another, must be salvaged by polishing. Refer to Illustration 51.
Illustration 52 | g06038963 |
Pieces of the chrome plating or HVOF spraying have come away from the rod. Use again after salvaging the rod by stripping, grinding, chrome plating or HVOF spraying and polishing. |
Illustration 53 | g06038984 |
Pieces of the chrome plating or selective HVOF spraying have come away from the rod. Use again after salvaging the rod by stripping, grinding, chrome plating or selective HVOF spraying, and polishing. |
Illustration 54 | g06038990 |
Pieces of the chrome plating have come away from the rod. Use again after salvaging the rod by stripping, grinding, chrome plating and polishing. |
Illustration 55 | g06218455 |
Inspect the machined radii and grooves on the piston shank region of the cylinder rod. Liquid dye penetrant or magnetic particle inspection methods may be helpful in identifying cracks.. Do not use again if cracks are found. |
Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
Personal injury can result from improper handling of chemicals. Make sure you use all the necessary protective equipment required to do the job. Make sure that you read and understand all directions and hazards described on the labels and material safety data sheet of any chemical that is used. Observe all safety precautions recommended by the chemical manufacturer for handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals. |
Refer to Tooling and Equipment Table 3 for part numbers.
- Cleaner: Removes dirt before dye application and dissolves the penetrant making possible to wipe the surface clean.
- Penetrant: This solution is highly visible, and will seep into openings at the surface of a part with capillary action.
- Developer: Provides a blotting action, bringing the penetrant out of the discontinuities and providing a contrasting background to increase the visibility of the penetrant indications.
- Wire Brush: Removes dirt and paint.
- Cloth or Wipes: Use with cleaner and for other miscellaneous uses.
- Preclean inspection area. Spray on cleaner / remover to loosen any scale, dirt, or any oil. Wipe the area to inspect with a solvent dampened cloth to remove remaining dirt and allow the area to dry. If there is visible crack, remove paint using paint remover or wire brush.
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Illustration 57 g06107081 Typical example of applying penetrant. - Apply penetrant by spraying to the entire area to be examined. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for penetrant to soak. After the penetrant has been allowed to soak, remove the excess penetrant with clean, dry wipe.
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Illustration 58 g06107088 Typical example of removing excess penetrant. - The last traces of penetrant should be removed with the cleaner solvent dampened cloth or wipe. Allow the area to dry thoroughly.
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Illustration 59 g06107094 - Before using Developer, ensure that it is mixed thoroughly by shaking can. Hold can approximately 8-12 inches away from part, apply an even, thin layer of developer over the area being inspected. A few thin layers are a better application method than one thick layer.
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Illustration 60 g06084042 Typical example of cracks found during a liquid penetrant examination. - Allow the developer to dry completely for 10–15 minutes before inspecting for cracks. Defects will show as red lines in white developer background, refer to Illustration 60. Clean the area of application of the developer with solvent cleaner.
Illustration 56 | g06107074 |
Typical example of pre-cleaning area. |
Surface Finish Inspection
When an HVOF coated component has not failed at time of disassembly, the surface roughness of the component must be measured. If the surface finish does not meet the specification, the component should be repolished and checked again. After repolishing, the following inspection procedure should be conducted:
- Place component on rollers, in a lathe, or hang vertically.
- Clean the inspection area with isopropyl alcohol and a lint free cloth.
- Holding an LED pen light less than 1 ft from the surface and at an approximately 30 degree angle, look for any shiny sparkles. If any are seen, circle the area with a permanent marker or paint pen.
- Hold a ball point pen at approximately a 45 degree angle and lightly drag the tip across the marked areas. Reject the part if a pit is felt when moving the pen across the surface.
Illustration 61 | g06038724 |
Holding the LED pen light less than 1 ft from the surface and at an approximately 30 degree angle. |
Illustration 62 | g06038694 |
Holding the ball point pen at approximately a 45 degree angle. |
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
Illustration 63 | g06404391 |
Bent rod Use again after salvaging the rod by straightening. |
Note: Some bent rods can have small cracks on the surface. Do not use bent rods with cracks. Also, the maximum amount a rod can be bent and still be straightened is
Illustration 64 | g01252379 |
The chrome plating or HVOF spray, has been removed because the rod is bent. Do not use again Do not straighten the rod. The rod is too short and thick. For a complete explanation of the procedure, refer to the "Procedure for Salvaging Cylinder Rods (Rerodding)" section in this guideline. |
Illustration 65 | g01252387 |
Bent rod Do not use again do not straighten the rod. The rod is bent too much. For a complete explanation of the procedure, refer to the "Procedure for Salvaging Cylinder Rods (Rerodding)" section in this guideline. |
Illustration 66 | g01252390 |
Broken rod Use again after salvaging the rod by rerodding. |
Inspection and Reuse of Eyes
Illustration 67 | g01252393 |
Damage to the eye is in the bearing area. Use again after salvaging the eye by welding and machining. |
Procedure for Salvaging Cylinder Rods (Rerodding)
Cylinder rods that are badly bent or broken can be salvaged by rerodding. Rerodding is a procedure by which a new rod is welded to the original eye. Basically, the old rod is cutoff, and a new rod is machined to the same specifications. The new rod is then welded to the eye portion of the damaged rod.
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
Acceptable Rod Material
The following SAE steels can be used in the salvage of hydraulic cylinder rods.
- SAE 1045 Pre-Chromed and Induction Hardened
A preferred material for rerodding is SAE 1045. The material supplied should have a minimum tensile strength of
- SAE 1045
The material supplied should have a minimum tensile strength of
Note: SAE 1045 is acceptable as rerod material only if the completed rod is processed according to the following:
- The finished rod should have an induction hardened layer
1.3 mm (0.05 inch) to2.5 mm (0.10 inch) deep with a minimum hardness of 50 on the Rockwell C (Rc) hardness scale. - The chrome plate should be no less than
0.018 mm (0.0007 inch) thick with a hardness of Rc 70. - The hardness of the inner core of the medium carbon rod should be 18 to 35 Rc
Previously, SAE 1141, SAE 1144, SAE 1144 STRESSPROOF®, and SAE 1144 FATIGUEPROOF® were recommended as acceptable rerod steels. The recommendation is removed, because SAE 1144 steels are resulfurized and do not weld correctly.
Cutting Pre-chromed Rod (SAE 1045)
Illustration 68 | g01622882 |
(A) Weld Repair Area
(B) Stroke Line (C) End of Rod to Stroke Line |
Cylinder rods that have been in service have a stroke line (B) located near the eye of the rod. The stroke line (B) is where the wiper seal rests when the rod is fully retracted. This line will be visible. Area (A) is the area on the rod where the wiper seal does not contact. Measure Distance (C) from the end of the cylinder rod to the stroke line (B) before the rod is cut. Record this measurement.
Pre-chromed hydraulic cylinder rod is an induction-hardened, medium carbon steel. The machining of pre-chromed rod will include cutting through all of the heat treatment and chrome plate discussed above under SAE 1045. The most difficult part of the operation will be cutting through the chrome and induction hardened layers. This process will require special tooling.
The rod must be rigidly chucked in the lathe with the area to be machined located as close to the chuck as possible. Support the tool with minimal overhang. Since the chrome is of such hardness, a hot-pressed ceramic cutting insert must be used. The insert must be oriented at a 45 degree side cutting edge angle to minimize the wear notch.
The machine rpm should be set to produce a cutting speed in the range of 85 to 98 surface meters per minute (280 to 320 surface feet per minute). The machine feed rate should be set for
Note: Do not use coolant on hot-pressed ceramic inserts. Thermal shock will cause the insert to shatter.
Cutting deeper than
For dealers with approved access to the Hydraulic Information System (H.I.S.), obtain Cylinder Dimensions by entering the part number. Also access to rod machining dimensions can be obtained after entering the rod part number. To obtain approval, select "Contact Us" on the H.I.S. web screen.
Eye Preparation
Note: Rods over
Illustration 69 | g01252409 |
Do not cutoff the rod too near the eye. |
- Measure
100 mm (4.0 inch) from the rod eye, and cut the remainder of the rod off with a torch. This step will produce a100 mm (4.0 inch) stub. Refer to Illustration 69. - Temper (heat) the surface of the stub with the torch until the stub becomes red. Let the stub cool naturally.
- Weld a
100 mm (4.0 inch) long steel rod to the eye opposite the stub. Be sure that the new steel rod is approximately the same diameter as the original rod. - Install the eye on a lathe. Chuck on the
100 mm (4.0 inch) stub of the original rod. Machine the welded rod until the rod is concentric with the100 mm (4.0 inch) stub. - Turn the eye around and chuck on the welded rod that was machined on the lathe.
- On larger and heavier eyes, machine the end of the rod for a center. Larger eyes need the added support.
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Illustration 70 g01588693 (A) Weld Repair Area
(B) Stroke Line
(C) End of Rod to Stroke Line
(D) End of Rod to Eye of RodShow/hide tableIllustration 71 g01622907 (B) Stroke Line
(E) Weld RepairNote: Whenever possible, all weld repairs (E) should be made past the stroke line (B) in area (A). The distance from the end of the rod to the weld repair area (E) should be longer than Dimension (C) that was measured earlier. The wiper seal should not contact the repair area. No further machining or chroming will be necessary if the repair area is made in area (A). The final length (D) of the repaired rod must still be the proper length.
- Machine the stub on the rod eye so that the weld repair area can be made past the stroke line if possible.
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Illustration 72 g01252416 After the welded rod is machined, chuck the rod in the lathe to machine the stub. - Machine the stub to approximately one third the diameter of the original rod. Machine a standard thread and a 30 degree welding chamfer from the base of the threads to the outside diameter of the rod. Refer to Illustration 72.
Illustration 73 | g01591555 |
Use these dimensions as a general guide to machine the stub correctly. (M) (N) 30 degree (O) 1/3 x Diameter Q (P) 3/4 x Diameter Q (Q) Diameter (R) 1 x Diameter Q (38) Standard thread (39) Tack weld |
Note: If the rod is gun drilled, dimension (O) may need to be larger due to the gun drilled hole inside the threaded area. Refer to Illustration 73.
Illustration 74 | g01252427 |
The finished product |
Preparation of the Rod
- Measure the original rod from the center of the eye to the opposite end.
- Machine the piston end of the new rod to the same specifications as the old rod. Be sure clearance between the shaft and piston is
0.08 mm (0.003 inch) or less. Ensure that the piston seat is perpendicular to the center of the rod within0.05 mm (0.002 inch) TIR.Show/hide tableIllustration 75 g01252428 Rod in position to machine. - In the eye end of the rod, machine a threaded hole that is the same diameter and pitch as the thread machined on the eye. Machine a 30 degree welding chamfer from the outside diameter of the rod. The eye end of the rod must be machined so the length of the rod will be correct when the eye is installed.
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Illustration 76 g01252430 Eye in position on the rod. - Assemble the eye to the rod.
Rod and Eye Preparation Considerations for Position Sensing Cylinders
Caterpillar uses position sensing cylinders (PSC) in various applications. These cylinders have a gun drilled hole the entire length of the rod. The same process can be used to rerod a PSC as described in the two previous sections. However, slight variations may be required due to the gun drilled hole.
- Machine the stub to approximately one third the diameter of the original rod. Machine a standard thread and a 30 degree welding chamfer from the base of the threads to the outside diameter of the rod.
Note: Dimension (O) may need to be larger than one third the original diameter of the rod to have adequate material thickness to thread.
- The second thing to consider when rerodding a PSC is alignment of the gun drilled hole. The new rod and the stub shaft on the eye must be aligned properly to avoid a lip inside the gun drilled hole. If a lip exists, the stem of the sensor can catch on the lip and damage the sensor. The gun drilled hole must be smooth and seamless.
Weld Procedure for Rerodding
Illustration 77 | g01252470 |
Protection on the first |
- Put a cover of material over the first
100 mm (4.0 inch) to130 mm (5.0 inch) of new rod. This step will protect the rod from weld spatter during welding. - Weld the rod to the eye with either dual shield wire (flux cored) with the same specification as ASW class E70T-1, E71T-1, or E7018 electrodes. Before welding, heat the rod to a temperature between
150 °C (302 °F) and200 °C (392 °F) . This step will prevent cracks. Refer to the “Welding” section in this guideline for more information. - Remove the stub from the rod eye. After removal of the stub, grind this area of the eye until smooth.
Finishing the Rod after Chrome Application
- The rod is ready if the steel rod used was SAE 1045 pre-chromed, and if the weld is outside of the closed stroke position. If the weld is inside the closed stroke position, the rod should be machined to the correct diameter.
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Illustration 78 g01252479 An application of chrome - Typically, an initial application of approximately
0.08 mm (0.003 inch) of chrome is applied to conventional cylinders and hoist cylinders. An application of approximately0.14 mm (0.006 inch) of chrome is applied to truck struts. Depending on the required rod diameter, as much as0.25 mm (0.010 inch) of chrome can be applied. Refer to Illustration 78.Show/hide tableIllustration 79 g01252490 Grind the rod to size. - Grind the rod to size. The amount of chrome on the rod surface after the rod is ground will typically be
0.03 mm (0.001 inch) for conventional cylinders and hoist cylinders. The final chrome thickness for truck struts should be approximately0.09 mm (0.004 inch) .Show/hide tableIllustration 80 g01252504 Polish the rod - Wet polish the rod with a 400 grit silica carbide belt. Surface finish must be .20 Ra µm 8 Ra microinch to .40 Ra µm 16 Ra microinch. Refer to “Polishing Chrome” in this guideline for details.
Note: The finished rod diameter is
Chrome Plating and Grinding
Chrome plating is discussed here as one of many alternatives for cylinder rod repair.
Chrome Stripping
The chrome on a component being salvaged can be removed mechanically or chemically. The following information describes the necessary procedure for mechanical removal.
Belt grinding with a diamond belt can be implemented by attaching a belt grinding machine to the cross slide of a lathe. The in-feed adjustment will control the amount of load on the component and grinding belt. The feed of the cross slide will control the feed rate of the belt grinder along the component. Some wheel grinders can be converted to belt grinders by substituting a contact wheel for the stone wheel and installing a belt idler assembly.
Chrome removal can be performed at a rate of
Preparation for Chrome Plating
Illustration 81 | g01252556 |
Grind the rod undersize in preparation for chrome plating. |
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
- Install the rod in an external grinder. For conventional rods and hoist rods, grind the rod to a maximum of
0.08 mm (0.003 inch) undersize if necessary to remove all surface damage. For truck struts a maximum of0.14 mm (0.006 inch) can be removed. If grinding does not remove all surface damage, the rod must be built up with spot weld. Then, machine the rod to the standard size before chrome plating. Refer to the "Welding" section in this guideline for complete instructions.Show/hide tableIllustration 82 g01252558 Put a cover of protection where necessary. - Put tape, stop-off lacquer, or wax on all surfaces of the rod which do not need chrome plating.
- Install the rod in a fixture for plating. Use auxiliary anodes and thieves, as needed, to control the build-up of plating.
- Clean the rod as follows:
- Remove grease with solvent. This removal is optional and can be done before tape, stop-off lacquer, or wax is used.
- Soak clean with alkaline. This cleaning is also optional.
- Electroclean with alkaline [anodic 200 ASF (amps per square foot)].
- Wash thoroughly with hot water.
- Etch with 50% to 60% sulfuric acid (H2SO4) anodic 1 to 1.5 ASI (amps per square inch).
- Wash thoroughly with cold water.
- Put the rod in the plating bath immediately after the cleaning procedure.
Application of Hard Chrome Plating
Illustration 83 | g01252562 |
Rod installed in a fixture, ready for plating. |
- Make sure that the plating bath mixture is 225 to 227 g/liter (20 to 37 oz/gal) of chromium trioxide (CrO3). The acid-to-catalyst total ratio must be from 90:1 to 110:1. The temperature of the plating bath must be
55 °C (131 °F) to60 °C (140 °F) . - Put the rod into the plating bath. Keep the rod there until the rod is the same temperature as the bath.
- Turn the current from zero potential to a current density of 2.0 to 3.0 ASI for all conductive surfaces. This step will take from 30 seconds to 1 minute for the current density to get to this level.
- Plating must be constant and long enough to build a chrome deposit that results in a diameter of more than the acceptable, finish-machined diameter. A surface deposit of
0.25 mm (0.010 inch) to0.36 mm (0.014 inch) is desired. - After the chrome plating is complete, remove the rod and wash the rod thoroughly with water.
- Remove the rod from the fixture, and remove all protection (wax, stop-off lacquer, or tape).
- Put the rod into an oven at a temperature of
150 °C (302 °F) for 3 hours. The rod must be put into the oven no more than 1 hour after the rod is removed from the plating bath. This step must be done to prevent cracks in the chrome plating. - Remove the rod from the oven, and let the rod cool slowly to room temperature.
Chrome Grinding Procedure
- Install the rod in an external grinder, and grind to size. There will be approximately
0.03 mm (0.001 inch) of chrome on the rod surface of a conventional cylinder and hoist cylinder after grinding. There will be approximately0.09 mm (0.004 inch) of chrome on the rod surface of a truck strut after grinding. - Grind the chrome plating carefully to prevent heat or pressure damage to the plating. Grind with a Norton No. 32-A-80-K5-VBE or similar aluminum oxide, 80 grit vitrified bond grinding wheel. Use a large volume of cutting fluid, either heavy-duty synthetic or light, soluble oil. Use wheel speeds of 1980 to 2590 surface meters per minute (6500 to 8500 surface feet per minute) and a medium to high work speed to prevent heat damage.
- Conventional Cylinders and Hoist Cylinders: After the grinding operation is complete, be sure that the surface finish is Ra = 0.20 µm Ra = 8 microinch to Ra = 0.40 µm Ra = 16 microinch. Also, the rod can be polished, if necessary. Refer to “Polishing Chrome” in this guideline for details.
- Truck Strut: After the grinding operation is complete, be sure that the surface finish is Ra = 0.10 µm Ra = 4 microinch to Ra = 0.15 µm Ra = 6microinch.
Selective Chrome Plating
Many times when a cylinder has a seal failure, the cause is a small nick, scratch, or pit on the rod surface. Repair of the nick, scratch, or pit is necessary before the rod can be put back into service. The repair can be made most easily by a procedure known as selective plating. In this procedure, a small surface can be plated with a given metal. Copper, nickel, and cobalt are the most common metals used on chrome plated cylinder rods.
Selective plating is not a replacement for bath chrome plating. But just as bath chrome plating is best for the repair of large areas, selective plating is especially practical for the repair of small areas.
Illustration 84 | g01252584 |
Selective plating is a good repair method for small areas. |
Selective plating has many steps and must be done correctly by personnel with special training. Training is available from manufacturers of selective plating equipment.
There are five basic steps in the procedure:
- Preparation of the surface
- Selection of the correct tools and power settings
- Masking
- Procedure to work out plating thickness
- Surface finishing
The step-by-step procedures will be different according to the type of equipment, type of failure, and type of solution used. For complete details on the procedure and training available, contact the selective plating equipment manufacturer. Refer to the list of suppliers at the end of this guideline.
Polishing Chrome
Polishing is necessary only to remove light scratches or to get a desired surface finish. Polishing chrome may be done after applying new chrome or after grinding chrome to size.
- Install the rod in an external grinder or a polishing lathe.
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Illustration 85 g01252592 Rotation of the polisher must be in this direction. Show/hide tableIllustration 86 g01252595 Use the correct grit belt to polish. - Wet polish the chrome with a 400 grit silica carbide belt. The correct belt will give the desired conventional cylinder or hoist cylinder a finish of Ra = 0.20 µm Ra = 8 microinch to Ra = 0.40 µm Ra = 16microinch or Ra = 0.10 µm Ra = 4 microinch to Ra = 0.15 µm Ra = 6 microinch for truck struts. Refer to Illustration 86.
- Polish only during rotation. Do not polish in one location for extended periods of time.
High Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF)
The following sections concerning HVOF discuss identifying HVOF on a rod, stripping HVOF off a rod, and general dimensions when applying HVOF. For complete details of the entire process as recommended by Caterpillar, refer to Table 7 and Special Instruction, SEBF9236, "Fundamentals of HVOF Spray for Reconditioning Components".
HVOF Identification
Before a repair option can be decided upon, identify the material on the rod. The difference between HVOF and chrome is not obvious at a glance. One way to identify HVOF is by visual inspection. HVOF will be present in the weld area between the rod and the eye. The HVOF in this area will not be polished and will be a dull gray color and will also be rough to the touch. If the weld area is chrome plated, the appearance will be shiny and smooth to the touch.
Illustration 87 | g01274314 |
Visible HVOF on a conventional cylinder rod. |
The visual description above also applies to suspension cylinders, struts, and hoist cylinders. The HVOF will be present near the bottom of a strut where the diameter tapers smaller. The HVOF will be present on the end of a hoist cylinder where the piston bolts on.
Illustration 88 | g01274316 |
Area where HVOF will be visible on a strut. |
Illustration 89 | g01274317 |
Visible HVOF on a hoist cylinder. |
For more information on identification of HVOF coating, refer to Special Instruction, SEBF9233, "HVOF Identification and Polishing".
HVOF Stripping
Illustration 90 | g02729079 |
Finishers Tech SG-6 Belt Grinder mounted on a lathe. |
Some cylinder rods are coated with HVOF. The HVOF can be stripped before new HVOF is sprayed on.
Belt grinding with a diamond belt can be implemented by attaching a belt grinding machine to the cross slide of a lathe. The in-feed adjustment will control the amount of load on the component and grinding belt. The feed of the cross slide will control the feed rate of the belt grinder along the component. Some wheel grinders can be converted to belt grinders by substituting a contact wheel for the stone wheel and installing a belt idler assembly.
The removal of an HVOF coating from a piece should be done with a M125 or M250 grit diamond belt from 3M. A diamond belt should only be used until the breakthrough of the steel substrate is apparent. If the diamond belt is used after this point, carbon will be drawn out of the diamond particles by the steel. The belt will stop working. At first exposure to steel, a Cubic Boron-Nitride (CBN) belt should be installed and used to remove the rest of the HVOF.
Coolant with a rust and bacteria inhibitor is required for the HVOF stripping operation. Hard water may require treatment, since materials can interfere with rust inhibitors and other coolant additives. The coolant should be flooded into the contact area between the abrasive and the component.
For adequate filtration, the lathe pump should pipe the coolant to an auxiliary filtering system. The filtering system must be at least 50% efficient for 10 micron particles. A filter tank/pump set up using an automatically advancing paper roll element is preferable for handling large volumes of fluid.
For complete and detailed instructions on stripping, grinding, and polishing/superfinishing chrome and/or HVOF, refer to Special Instruction, SEBF9276, "Thermal Spray Procedures for Hydraulic Cylinder Rods".
Application of HVOF
The application of HVOF on the rod should result in a diameter of more than the acceptable finished diameter. For conventional cylinders and hoist cylinders, an initial spray deposit of approximately
For truck struts, an initial spray deposit of approximately
Coating Repairs
The following guidelines should be used when repairing a blemish on an HVOF coated component:
- If the coating thickness is less than
0.51 mm (0.020 inch) , the coating should be completelyremoved and returned to the surface texturing operation. - If the coating thickness is over
0.51 mm (0.020 inch) , then the following steps should be followed:- Remove
0.13 mm (0.005 inch) of coating thickness. - Heat the component to
177° C (350° F) for 3 hours to remove all oils from the surface of the coating. - Apply a degreasing agent to the surface of the coating and dry with clean shop air.
- Apply the HVOF Coating.
- Remove
HVOF Finishing
The approximate finish thickness of HVOF on conventional cylinders and hoist cylinders is
Illustration 91 | g02759157 |
Supfina 210 Super Finisher |
Illustration 92 | g02759158 |
Finishers Tech SF-4 Super Finisher |
HVOF coatings may be finished by using a conventional wheel grinder or by using a belt grinder. The most economical method of finishing an HVOF coating is belt grinding. Belt grinding is twice as fast as conventional wheel grinding.
Belt finishing for most components is usually a two-step process. The first step is to grind the HVOF coating by using a 3M Trizact M70 diamond belt. This grinding will remove most excess material and remove any taper from the component. The second step uses the super finisher to grind the component to the proper size and the proper surface finish. A 20 micron film should be used for super finishing.
Use of the super finisher has three important purposes. The super finisher removes blemishes that the belt grinder leaves on the surface. Second, the super finisher produces a slight crosshatch in the coating. This finish is desirable because the finish helps to lubricate the seals to extend seal life. The super finisher also leaves a more polished surface appearance.
The belt grinder can be mounted on a good quality lathe by mounting the belt grinding machine to the cross slide. The in-feed adjustment and the feet rate can be controlled by the lathe. The super finisher can also be mounted to a lathe. The super finisher can be combined with a rear-mount belt grinder together on the lathe. This arrangement will allow both operations to be performed on the same machine.
An HVOF coating can be ground at a rate of
HVOF Coatings for Conventional Cylinder Rods, Hoist Cylinder Rods, and Truck Struts | |
Surface Finish | Using a 5 micron stylus:
Ra = OR Rz = Note:Either scale can be used to measure the surface finish, however, Ra and Rz do not equate to each other physically or mathematically as they measure different surface profiles. Only one of these measurements needs to be met. |
Finish Thickness | As Required |
Finishing Allowance | |
Machining Equipment Type | Lathe with Grinder attachment or Cylindrical Grinder |
Finishing and Superfinishing Equipment Type | Diamond Belt Grinding and Superfinishing |
Grinding Equipment | Finishers Tech Super G-6 Belt Grinder or equivalent CNC Cylinder Grinder |
Recommended Abrasive | 3M Trizact Diamond Cloth Belts 663FC (70 micron) |
Superfinishing Equipment | Supfina210, IMPCO, GEM, or equivalent |
Recommended Abrasive | 3M Diamond Microfinishing Film 675L (20 Micron) |
Procedure for Straightening Rods
Some bent rods can be used again after straightening. Before straightening, inspect the rod to obtain the following information.
Illustration 93 | g01252641 |
The rod can have a gentle (A) or sharp (B) bend. |
- Type of bend (gentle or sharp). Refer to Illustration 93.
- Location of bend.
- Amount of bend.
- Type of rod (solid or tubular).
- Whether or not more salvage operations will be necessary beyond straightening.
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
The maximum amount of bend a cylinder rod can have and still be straightened is
Cylinder rods that are bent at the eye or just below the eye cannot be straightened. The best salvage method for a bend in this location is rerodding. Tubular rods with a gentle bend can be straightened. However, the ram from the straightening press may cause a flat area on the rod surface. A flat area on the rod surface is acceptable if more salvage operations are necessary like building up the rod with weld or chrome plating.
Rods that are bent have other surface damage that needs repair. If more salvage operations are needed, the need to straighten the rod to the final specification is not necessary. If chrome plating or HVOF spraying is necessary, straighten to
- Heat the rod in an oven for 90 minutes. Do not use a torch. Using a torch can cause the rod to become too hot in some areas and not hot enough in others. The rod is ready to be straightened when the rod temperature is between
150 °C (302 °F) and260 °C (500 °F) . The recommended temperature is232 °C (450 °F) . Use a thermometer to check the temperature.Show/hide tableIllustration 94 g01252662 100 ton straightening press Show/hide tableIllustration 95 g01252667 150 ton straightening press - Put the rod in position on a hydraulic press. Use a 100 ton press for small diameter rods, under
127 mm (5 inch) , and a 150 ton press for large diameter rods127 mm (5 inch) and over. A 150 ton press will do the job for all sizes of rods. Refer to the list of straightening press suppliers at the end of this guideline. Refer to Illustrations 94 and 95. - Use a dial indicator to find where the rod is bent the most.
- If no more salvage operations are needed after the rod is straightened, put a crankshaft bearing between the rod and press ram. Putting a crankshaft bearing between the two parts protects the surface.
- Put a small amount of force on the cylinder rod where the bend is greatest, and then release the press ram. Measure the amount of TIR in the rod. The rod must be straight to
0.25 mm (0.010 inch) TIR or less measured over the complete length of the rod. If the rod is not, increase the force on the press ram, and repeat the straightening procedure until the rod has the correct straightness. Preferably, straighten the rod a little beyond zero, turn the rod and straighten the rod back to zero from the other side.
Welding
Most of the parts on hydraulic cylinders and rods can easily be salvaged with a special type of welding. This welding process is basically a build-up procedure (adding layer on top of layer). Any of the four methods can be used.
- Shielded Metal Arc (stick)
- Gas Metal Arc (MIG)
- Flux Cored Arc
- Submerged Arc
The procedure will be different according to the method used and the part. The following general information applies to all procedures.
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
Voltage Current and Polarity
The voltage, current, and polarity must be set correctly to produce the required weld deposits.
The voltage controls the shape and size of the weld bead. The weld bead gets flatter as the voltage is increased.
The current (or amperage) controls the rate of weld deposit. The higher the amperage, the higher the rate of deposit. Remember, a high rate is desired because the higher rate decreases the amount of time needed for reconditioning. The use of high amperage to get high deposit rates is limited because of the heat factor. As the amperage goes up, the heat input is increased. The type of current can be either direct (DC) or alternating (AC). Generally, DC is used.
The polarity controls the penetration (depth) of the weld. If the electrode is positive (reverse polarity), there is more penetration. Welding is done with direct current and electrode positive (DCEP).
Preheating Procedure
Cylinder rod assemblies must be preheated to a temperature between
If the welding procedure is interrupted and the rod assembly temperature drops below the required pre-heat temperature, the rod must be preheated again. After preheating again, welding can then be resumed. (Measure the temperature with a thermometer or with a temperature stick).
Conventional hydraulic cylinders (lift, tilt, steering) should be replaced and not repaired. Cylinder housings for off-highway truck suspensions can have damage repaired by welding and must be preheated to at least
Cleaning Procedure
All foreign material like oil, grease, water, paint, rust, dirt, and scale must be removed before the foreign materials are heated by the welding operation. This gas can cause porosity in the weld deposit. Water or rust can cause a condition known as “hydrogen enbrittlement”. The result of this condition is cracking in the weld deposit. Remove oil and grease with solvent. Remove paint, rust, dirt, and scale with a wire brush or glass beads.
Welding Material
Recommendations for the type of electrodes and wires to use will be different, according to the application, procedure, and material. Table 8 gives some basic recommendations.
WELDING MATERIALS | ||
Covered Electrode for Shielded Metal Arc Procedure | ||
AWS E6013 | An all position general-purpose electrode. Use to weld parts together. | |
AWS E7018 | An all position, medium penetration, and medium deposit electrode. Use for weld build-up in areas of high load. | |
AWS E7024 | A flat position, light penetration, and high deposit electrode. Use for general weld build-up. | |
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Flux-Cored Electrode Wire for Flux-Cored Arc Procedure | ||
AWS E71T-1 | For flat and horizontal position, medium penetration, high deposit rate applications. Use to weld parts together and general weld build-up. | |
Type II 70 | |
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Type 7000 | |
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Type 7100 | |
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Solid Electrode Wire for Gas Metal Arc Procedure | ||
AWS E70S-3 | Use to weld parts together in flat and horizontal position with CO2. Use for general weld build-up with 75% Ar + 25% CO2 or 98% Ar + 2% O2 | |
Type-Spoolare85 | |
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Type-L50 | |
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AWS E70S-6 | Use to weld parts together in flat and horizontal position with CO2. Use for general weld build-up with 75% Ar + 25% CO2 or 98% Ar + 2% O2 | |
Type Supfina 88 | |
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Flux and Wire Combination for Submerged Arc Welding of Rods | ||
AWS EL12 | For weld build-up of cylinder rods. | |
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Note: The combination of Lincoln Wire L-60 and Lincoln Flux A-96-S will give a matensite type 420 stainless steel surface. A minimum of two passes is needed. Three passes will give a surface hardness of Rockwell C52-54.
Refer to Cat Hand Tools and Shop Supplies, PECJ0003 for other weld wire.
Welding Cylinder Rod Eyes
- Build up the face of the eye first if the eye is damaged. Use an E7018 electrode.
Show/hide table
Illustration 96 g01253179 Salvage of a rod eye. - Build up the bore of the eye using a 276-2066 Automatic Bore Welder with E7024 weld wire (electrode) or an E7024 stick electrode. European Union-compliant, CE marked 276-2067 Automatic Bore Welder or 276-2068 Automatic Bore Welder can also be used.
Show/hide table
Illustration 97 g01253182 Eye welded circumferential. - Weld either across the eye or circumferential . Refer to Illustration 97.
Show/hide table
Illustration 98 g01253185 Horizontal milling machine in use. Show/hide tableIllustration 99 g01253188 Vertical milling machine in use. - Machine the bore and the face to original size. The sequence of machining is not important, but the face and the eye must be machined perpendicular to each other. Use a horizontal or vertical milling machine. Refer to Illustrations 98 and 99.
Welding Cylinder Rods
Illustration 100 | g01253189 |
Welded cylinder rod. |
At times, rods are damaged beyond the point where the rods can be ground to a maximum of
Rerodding, straightening, or welding any steering cylinder rod, bowl cylinder rod, or front suspension cylinder rod could result in injury or death. If any of these rods are broken or cracked, the rods must be replaced with a REMAN rod or a new rod. These rods can be ground and plated with chrome if the recommended Caterpillar process that is identified in this document is used. |
- Build up the rod with a mild steel weld deposit. Use the gas metal arc procedure, machine, and chrome plate.
- Build up the rod with a stainless steel weld deposit. Use the submerged arc procedure, and machine to size. No chrome plating is necessary.
Automatic welding equipment is necessary for both methods.
Method 1 - Procedure for Gas Metal Arcing
- Grind the rod undersize until all damage has been removed.
- Where welding is to begin, preheat the area to a temperature between
150 °C (302 °F) and260 °C (500 °F) .Show/hide tableIllustration 101 g01253214 Rod in position for gas metal arc procedure. - Build up the rod with weld.
- Use
1.6 mm (0.063 inch) diameter solid electrode wire (AWS classification E70S-1B). Use a shielding gas of 98% Argon and 2% Oxygen. Use direct current with electrode positive (DCEP). - Overlap the bead from one revolution to the next by 50%.
Note: A single weld pass will produce enough build-up. More passes are permissible if needed.
Show/hide tableIllustration 102 g01253216 Machine the rod back to finish size. - Use
- Machine the rod to finish size. Refer to Illustration 102.
- Chrome plate the rod. Refer to “Chrome Plating and Grinding” in this guideline for more information.
Method 2 - Procedure for Submerged Arcing
- Grind the rod undersize to remove all damage. Grind to a minimum of
1.5 mm (0.06 inch) undersize. - Where welding is to begin, preheat the area to a temperature between
150 °C (302 °F) and260 °C (500 °F) .Show/hide tableIllustration 103 g01253221 Submerged arc welding. - Build up the rod with weld.
- Use
1.27 mm (0.050 inch) solid electrode wire (AWS classification EL12), Lincoln L60. Use Lincoln Flux A96S. Use direct current with electrode positive (DCEP). - Overlap the bead from one revolution to the next by 50%.
Note: Two passes, minimum, are needed to give a stainless steel composition with a hardness of Rockwell C52-54.
Show/hide tableIllustration 104 g01253224 Use a large volume of cutting fluid when grinding. - Use
- Grind the rod to finish size. Use a Norton No. 32-A-80-1CS-VBE or similar aluminum oxide, 80 grit vitrified bond grinding wheel. Use a large amount of cutting fluid, either heavy-duty synthetic or light soluble oil. Use wheel speeds of 1980 to 2590 surface meters per minute (6500 to 8500 surface feet per minute) and a medium to high work speed to prevent heat damage. Plunge-grind all high points first, and then traverse-grind to finish size with a maximum stock removal of
0.05 mm (0.002 inch) per pass. - Polish the rod to a surface finish of
0.4 Ra µm (16 Ra microinch) to0.8 Ra µm (32 Ra microinch) . Use a 220 grit abrasive belt.
Salvage of a Broken Trunnion
Weld the broken piece into place, and build up the bearing surfaces with weld. Then, machine the inside of the bore.
Illustration 105 | g01253237 |
Broken piece from the trunnion has been welded back into position. |
NOTICE |
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Do not salvage broken lift cylinder trunnions on any scraper bowls, wheel loaders, or track loaders. These trunnions are heat treated for strength, and welding will destroy this special characteristic. |
Salvage of Damaged Cylinder Rod Ends
Build up the damaged cylinder rod end with weld. Then, machine the diameter and recut the thread.
Illustration 106 | g01253249 |
Salvage of the piston end of the cylinder rod. |
Illustration 107 | g01253251 |
Salvage of the piston end of the cylinder rod. |
Salvage of Damaged Cylinder Assembly Ends
Build up the damaged cylinder end with weld. Then, machine the bore to original size.
Illustration 108 | g01253254 |
Salvage of the tube. Build up the end with weld (only the end of the tube was damaged). |
Illustration 109 | g01253255 |
Same cylinder tube as the tube shown in Illustration 108 after the tube has been machined to size. |
Reconditioning check valve seat of Truck Strut Rods
At truck strut rebuilds inspect the seat of the internal check valve on the front suspension rod. This check valve is set up as an internal cushion and can have erratic actuation depending on conditions.
Conditions such as bad haul roads, overloading, or under charged struts can cause the check ball to strike against check valve seat. This can cause seat damage and allow oil to bleed past check valve.
If any damage is visible upon inspection, reface valve seat to 30°
Illustration 110 | g06037118 |
Machine the valve seat to clean up any damage, minimizing the depth to allow for multiple repairs. Machining depth depends upon damage. Maximum machining depth of 1.5 mm for 40 ton through 100 ton. Maximum machining depth of 3.0 mm for 130 ton through 400 ton. Only machining until the valve seat is cleaned up should allow for more machining to be done on next rebuild.
Note: Mark repair depth of check valve on top of rod in between bolt holes. This will easily identify check valve depth at next rebuild. Indicate with an engraving tool the depth in mm that the check valve was taken to. Example R26.5 for taking 1.5 mm off the check valve seat.
Surface Finish Analyzers
PO BOX 36
2 New Star Road
Leicester, LE4 9JQ England
www.taylor-hobson.com
Tel: (0) 166 276 37, Fax: (0) 116 246 0579
United States:
Taylor Hobson Inc.1725 Western Drive
West Chicago, IL 60185 USA
Tel: (1) 630 621 3099, Fax: (1) 630 231 1739
Japan:
Mitutoyo Corporation Head Office(Overseas Sales)
20-1 Sakado 1-choma, Takatsu-ku
Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa-ken 213 Japan
Tel: (81) 044 813 8230, Fax: (81) 044 813 8231
High-Speed Polishers
305 Mears Blvd.
Oldsmar, FL 34677
Tel: (1) 813 855 7817
Peterson Machine Tool Inc.
1100 North Union Street
Council Grove KS 66846
www.petersonmachine.com
Tel: (1) 316 634 6699
Fax: (1) 620 767 6415
Straightening Presses
724 Robbins Road
Grand Haven, MI 49417 USA
www.dakecorp.com
Tel: (1) 800 937 3253, Fax: (1) 800 846 3253
Eitel Presses
97 Pinedale Industrial Road
Orwigsburg, PA 17961 USA
www.eitelpresses.com
Tel: (1) 570 366 0585, Fax: (1) 570 366 2536
Selective Plating Equipment
3748 East 91st Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44105
Tel: (1) 216 641 9366, (1) 800 321 9194,
Fax: (1) 216 641 6416
Sifco Selective Plating
World Headquarters
5708 E. Schaaf Road
Cleveland, Ohio 44131-1308 USA
Tel: (1) 216 524 0099, (1) 800 765 4131
Fax: (1) 216 524 6331
Hydraulic Cylinder Hones
501 SW Jefferson Ave
Peoria, IL 61630 USA
dealerservicetool_hotline@cat.com
(1) 800 542-8665
Sunnen Products Co.
7910 Manchester Rd
St. Louis, MO 63143
Tel: (1) 314 781 2100, Fax: (1) 314 781 2268