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Komatsu slow bucket dump

grf_1000

Member
Joined
Nov 30, 2016
Messages
17
Location
michigan
I have a Komatsu wa400-5L. After running for 30 minutes the bucket dump slows way down, to the point where I almost have to have the throttle pinned to dump. sometimes at idle the bucket won't even move to dump. Lift and lower seem fine, curl up seems fine as well unless its a real heavy load. I have noticed that they don't seem as strong as before.
The fluid is new (blew a 1.5" line) and new filter in top of the tank. Problem started before I blew the line.
A plugged screen, valve , solenoid? I do have the service manual but looking for a starting point.
Thank for any help or input.
 
Last edited:

BigWrench55

Senior Member
Joined
Oct 11, 2018
Messages
1,176
Location
Somewhere
Something my dad taught me about hydraulics is speed is to flow and power is to pressure. If you suspect bypassing cylinder you can stroke out the cylinder to the end of its stroke. Then take the line off the end that is not getting oil from stroking it out and if you have oil spraying out then your piston seal is blown. But if that was the case then you should have drift in the cylinder and trouble with both directions. Sounds like a flow issue. Find the valve controlling the bucket and take pressure readings on both sides. If you’re not mechanically inclined and can’t do this without hurting yourself and creating damage to the equipment then call a professional.
 
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