- 1). Drain the hydraulic fluid out of the system. Unscrew the cap on the bottom of the tank, and allow the oil to drain into a large plastic container. Make sure the system is off and is completely cool before beginning.
- 2). Check the status of reservoir. The rigid baffles on the wall are designed to maximize the surface area that will absorb the heat. If there is residue or sediment caking or clogging the baffles, the amount of heat being absorbed will not be sufficient for your system. Clean out the baffles with a wire brush.
- 3). Examine the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger should resemble a radiator of sorts, with criss-crossed tubing connected to aluminum fins. If the fins are constricted, then heat transfer will be reduced, raising the temperature of the fluid. Manually space the fins out if necessary. Depending on the type of heat exchanger you have, the amount of necessary space may vary. Locate the model number and consult an expert at a parts store for information on your specific exchanger. As a rule, none of the fins should be touching each other.