How-tos

Within the realm of heavy machinery, the mighty force generated by the hydraulic system grants excavators the capacity to lift tons of earth and empowers bulldozers to move tremendous burdens. The hydraulic pump converts the engine’s mechanical energy into hydraulic pressure that operates the boom, bucket, and blade. If your curiosity is stirred toward the inner workings of the hydraulic pump working principle, read on. The present guide shall unfold in detail the operational principles of hydraulic pumps, survey the varieties most commonly encountered in heavy equipment, and elucidate why the proper maintenance of this vital system stands as the cornerstone of enhanced productivity.

Is your PTO shaft the right length? A wrong fit can damage your tractor. This guide covers how to measure diameter, find the shortest working length, and safely cut your PTO shaft to the perfect size. Ensure a safe, perfect fit and prevent costly damage.

Your zero-turn mower is dead and stuck in the middle of the yard. Trying to force it will only damage the hydrostatic system. This guide shows you exactly how to push a zero-turn mower the right way. The key is to disengage the hydrostatic bypass valves to put the mower in ‘freewheel mode’. We’ll walk you through the safe, step-by-step process, from locating the valves on popular brands like John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Toro, to re-engaging them correctly. Don’t get stuck—learn how to move your mower safely.

Have you ever encountered the circumstance where, after charging your forklift, pallet truck, or other apparatus, the machine still appears “powerless” or “incapable of ascending slopes”? The true culprit may not necessarily reside within your equipment or its battery, but rather within the charger itself. A malfunctioning battery charger may induce you to replace an expensive, heavy-duty battery unnecessarily, thereby squandering both time and resources. This guide shall bestow upon you a lucid, step-by-step procedure illustrating how to employ a mere multimeter to examine the charger, so as to accurately discern the issue and restore the equipment to its proper function.

Failing glow plugs can make starting your diesel engine on a cold morning nearly impossible. Learn to identify the most common diesel glow plug failure symptoms, from a flashing dashboard light and hard starting to engine misfires, rough idling, and excessive smoke. This comprehensive guide explains what each sign means and walks you through simple tests you can perform at home with a multimeter. Don’t get left in the cold—understand the warnings your vehicle is giving you and learn how to fix the problem.

Confused by STD, AGM, or SUL on your battery charger? This guide explains what each setting means for your heavy-duty equipment. Learn the critical differences between flooded and AGM battery types and how to charge them correctly to maximize performance and extend battery life.

Is your John Deere Z425 failing to start or engage the blades? This guide walks you through diagnosing electrical problems, from testing a faulty PTO switch with a multimeter to finding a grounded kill wire. Learn to safely repair your mower and get back to work.

Corn harvest stands as the crystallization of a year’s diligent toil. It relies upon the precise grasping of optimal ripeness and moisture, concomitant with the employment of dependable and well-maintained harvesters. Perceiving the harbingers of corn maturation, whilst perpetually prepared to commence reaping at the most advantageous juncture, constitutes the foremost task of the autumnal harvest season. By dedicating time to inspecting equipment and devising plans for procuring components of high quality yet reasonable cost, one can maximize the diminution of downtime, ensuring that machinery remains ever-ready at critical moments—thereby safeguarding both the crop and accrued profit.

Is your diesel engine hard to start, running rough, or producing white smoke? These are classic signs of failing glow plugs. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need for a successful glow plug replacement. We’ll help you identify all the symptoms, from a flashing dashboard light to poor fuel economy. Learn the detailed, step-by-step process for safe removal and proper installation, get an idea of the potential costs, and find expert answers to frequently asked questions about your diesel.

Panicking about a flashing light? Our guide on how to fix the glow plug warning light shows it’s rarely the plugs. We cover the #1 cause (brake lights!), emissions, and sensor issues. Follow our 6-step diagnostic process, from simple checks to scanning for codes, to fix it yourself.

Undercarriage rust is an issue confronted by all tracked machinery. A rusted undercarriage not only appears unsightly but also undermines structural integrity, accelerates the wear of costly components, and may even precipitate the cessation of powerful machines. Undercarriage corrosion cannot be remedied in a one-time manner; it constitutes a process of continuous maintenance. This guide shall analyze the principal causes of undercarriage rust and provide eight practical and efficacious techniques to safeguard your investment, prolong the service life of your equipment, and ensure the smooth operation of your enterprise.

Removing a PTO shaft isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our guide breaks it down into four clear levels, from simple daily unhooks to major gearbox repairs. Learn how to safely remove your PTO shaft, replace a U-joint, and more. Tackle any job with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.