Komatsu PW110R-1 Auxiliary Oil Flow Issues: Causes and Solutions

[MikePhua]

The Komatsu PW110R-1 is a versatile wheeled excavator that is often used in construction, road work, and other demanding applications. Known for its robust performance and high productivity, the PW110R-1 is equipped with an auxiliary hydraulic system that powers various attachments, such as hydraulic breakers and clamshell buckets. However, like all heavy machinery, the PW110R-1 can experience technical issues over time, with one of the more common problems being a failure of the auxiliary oil flow.
Understanding the potential causes and solutions for this issue is critical for maintaining the efficiency and productivity of the equipment. Below, we will dive deep into why the auxiliary oil flow may stop working on the Komatsu PW110R-1, and how operators and technicians can troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
Understanding the Auxiliary Oil Flow System
The auxiliary hydraulic system on the Komatsu PW110R-1 is responsible for supplying pressurized hydraulic oil to attachments that require external power. This system is fed by the machine's hydraulic pump, which draws oil from the main hydraulic reservoir. Depending on the application, different attachments may require varying amounts of oil flow and pressure, so the system is designed to be adjustable to accommodate these needs.
When the auxiliary oil flow stops working, it often affects the machine’s ability to operate attachments, such as breakers or grapples, making the equipment much less effective on the job site.
Common Causes of Auxiliary Oil Flow Failure
Several factors can contribute to the loss of auxiliary oil flow on the Komatsu PW110R-1. The most common causes are as follows:

1. Faulty Hydraulic Pump
   • The hydraulic pump is the heart of the auxiliary oil system. If the pump fails or becomes worn, it may not generate the necessary oil flow to power attachments.
     
   • Symptoms: The auxiliary attachments may not work at all, or they may operate sluggishly, indicating insufficient hydraulic power.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the pump for signs of wear or damage. If the pump is found to be malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of hydraulic components can prevent these issues.
     
2. Clogged or Blocked Hydraulic Lines
   • Over time, hydraulic lines can become clogged with debris, sludge, or contaminants from the oil. This can restrict the flow of oil to the auxiliary circuit, leading to a loss of power.
     
   • Symptoms: The hydraulic attachments may work intermittently, or not at all, and there may be unusual noises or vibrations.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the hydraulic lines for any visible blockages or damage. Clean or replace the lines as necessary to ensure smooth oil flow. Additionally, check the hydraulic oil filter for clogging, as a dirty filter can also lead to flow issues.
     
3. Faulty Hydraulic Valves
   • Hydraulic valves regulate the flow of oil to various parts of the system. If one of the auxiliary control valves is malfunctioning, it could result in no oil flow to the auxiliary circuit.
     
   • Symptoms: If the valve is stuck or damaged, the attachments may not respond to commands or will operate erratically.
     
   • Solution: Inspect and test the hydraulic valves for proper operation. Replace or repair any faulty valves to restore the flow of oil. It’s important to regularly service and lubricate the valve components to avoid wear and tear.
     
4. Incorrect Hydraulic Oil Pressure
   • The hydraulic system operates at a specific pressure to ensure that attachments function properly. If the pressure is too low, the auxiliary oil flow may be insufficient to operate attachments.
     
   • Symptoms: Weak or inconsistent operation of attachments or no movement at all.
     
   • Solution: Check the system pressure using a hydraulic pressure gauge. If the pressure is low, inspect the pressure relief valve or pressure compensation valve. Adjusting the pressure settings or replacing faulty components may be necessary.
     
5. Electrical System Issues
   • On some models of the Komatsu PW110R-1, the operation of the hydraulic flow to the auxiliary circuit is controlled electrically. Issues with the electrical system, such as wiring problems, blown fuses, or malfunctioning sensors, could prevent the auxiliary hydraulic flow from activating.
     
   • Symptoms: The auxiliary system may not respond to input commands, or there may be error codes on the machine’s display.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the wiring, fuses, and sensors associated with the auxiliary hydraulic system. Reset the electrical system or replace damaged parts to restore functionality.
     

Troubleshooting the Issue
When diagnosing an issue with the auxiliary oil flow on the Komatsu PW110R-1, it’s essential to take a systematic approach to troubleshoot. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check the Auxiliary System Settings:
   • Ensure that the auxiliary hydraulics are properly enabled on the machine. On some models, there are controls to switch between different hydraulic circuits. Make sure that the settings are correctly configured.
     
2. Inspect the Hydraulic Oil:
   • Verify that the hydraulic oil level is adequate and that the oil is clean. Contaminated or low oil levels can cause pressure drops and poor flow.
     
   • If the oil appears dirty or degraded, change the hydraulic fluid and replace the oil filter.
     
3. Test the Hydraulic Pump:
   • If the oil level and cleanliness are good, the next step is to test the hydraulic pump. If the pump isn’t delivering the proper flow, it may need to be replaced.
     
4. Check Hydraulic Lines and Valves:
   • Examine all hydraulic lines for blockages or leaks. Pay special attention to areas where hoses or pipes could be kinked or damaged. Additionally, inspect the control valves for proper operation.
     
5. Inspect the Electrical System:
   • For machines with electronic controls for the hydraulic system, ensure that the electrical components are functioning correctly. Look for loose connections or blown fuses that could be preventing the auxiliary oil flow from being activated.
     
6. Check the Hydraulic Pressure:
   • Use a pressure gauge to measure the system's pressure. If the pressure is low, inspect the pressure relief valve and any components that regulate hydraulic pressure.
     

Preventative Maintenance Tips
To avoid future issues with the auxiliary oil flow, regular maintenance is key:

• Change hydraulic oil and replace filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  
• Inspect and clean hydraulic lines regularly to prevent blockages.
  
• Lubricate and maintain hydraulic valves to ensure smooth operation.
  
• Check system pressure periodically to ensure that the hydraulic system is functioning at optimal levels.
  
• Perform routine electrical system checks to identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
  

Conclusion
The Komatsu PW110R-1 is a powerful and reliable machine, but like any piece of heavy equipment, it requires careful attention and regular maintenance. If the auxiliary oil flow stops working, it could be due to a range of issues, from hydraulic pump failures to electrical malfunctions. By systematically troubleshooting the issue and performing preventive maintenance, operators can ensure that their PW110R-1 continues to perform at its best, powering attachments and completing projects efficiently.
Proper maintenance not only saves time and money but also extends the life of the machine, ensuring that it remains a reliable asset on the job site for years to come.