Starting Up New Pumps and Hydrostatic Transmissions for the First Time

For long life and top efficiency, contaminants must be removed from your hydraulic system. Clean (flush) all hoses, fittings, reservoirs and components with clean, high flash point (hard to ignite) solvent. Blow dry with shop air. Fill the reservoir with clean manufacturerís recommended hydraulic fluid. The inlet suction line must be filled prior to start up. Fill this line manually if gravity does not do it for you. Recheck connections - make sure there are no air leaks.

On hydrostatic pumps, it is a must to fill the case with hydraulic oil before starting the prime mover (engine or motor).

CAUTION: Always keep the prime mover at the lowest possible RPM until the pressure is established in the system. Vane pumps need a minimum of 600 RPM to throw the vanes out against the ring wall.

Piston Type Pumps
(Hydrostatic Transmissions)

Install a 500 psi gauge in the charge pressure port. Each brand and series of pumps have minimum charge pressures that are needed to make the pump operate correctly. Know what pressure is needed for your pump.

Always start the prime mover with the swashplate ( forward and reverse controls) in the neutral position.

Once charge pressure has been established, increase the speed to full RPM. Shut down and determine cause if charge pressure does not come up to the minimum pressure for your unit.

Run system at full input and output speeds ( with motor output shaft disconnected from the drive train) in both forward and reverse.
Operate system 15 minutes or more, shut down and replace the inlet filter. Remove gauges and restart system to fill new filter with oil. Check reservoir fluid level. Your hydrostatic transmission is now ready to work.