Hydraulic Cylinder Service and Rebuild on the John Deere 570B Motor Grader

[MikePhua]

The John Deere 570B and Its Hydraulic System Design
The John Deere 570B motor grader was introduced in the late 1970s as part of Deere’s expanding road maintenance equipment lineup. Built for precision grading, ditch shaping, and roadbed preparation, the 570B featured a mechanically governed diesel engine paired with a robust hydraulic system. With an operating weight of approximately 14,000 lbs and a blade width of 12 feet, it became a popular choice for municipalities and contractors across North America.
The hydraulic system powers blade lift, articulation, steering, and optional ripper or scarifier functions. Central to this system are the double-acting hydraulic cylinders, which convert fluid pressure into linear motion. Over time, these cylinders can develop leaks, lose pressure, or suffer mechanical damage—especially in high-cycle applications like road grading.
Symptoms of Cylinder Wear and Failure
Operators may notice:

• Hydraulic fluid leaking from rod seals or gland nuts
  
• Blade drifting or failing to hold position under load
  
• Cylinder rod pitting or scoring
  
• Excessive play in the rod end or clevis
  
• Slow response or uneven movement during blade lift
  
• Audible hissing or cavitation during operation
  

In Alberta, a road crew using a 570B for gravel shoulder work found that the right lift cylinder would slowly retract under load. Inspection revealed a worn piston seal and internal scoring from contaminated fluid.
Cylinder Anatomy and Service Considerations
Each hydraulic cylinder on the 570B includes:

• Barrel: Steel tube housing the piston and fluid
  
• Rod: Chrome-plated shaft extending from the cylinder
  
• Piston: Separates fluid chambers and transfers force
  
• Seals: Prevent fluid leakage and contamination
  
• Gland: Retains seals and guides the rod
  
• End fittings: Clevis or spherical bearings for mounting
  

Common service tasks include:

• Replacing rod seals and wipers
  
• Inspecting and polishing the rod surface
  
• Replacing piston seals and wear bands
  
• Honing the barrel to remove scoring
  
• Replacing gland nuts and bushings
  
• Pressure testing after reassembly
  

Some operators use seal kits matched to OEM part numbers, while others measure groove dimensions and source aftermarket equivalents. In Shanghai, a fleet manager rebuilt all blade lift cylinders on a 570B using Viton seals for improved heat resistance during summer grading.
Disassembly and Rebuild Strategy
To rebuild a cylinder:

• Remove the cylinder from the machine and drain fluid
  
• Secure in a bench vise and loosen gland nut using a spanner or chain wrench
  
• Extract rod and piston assembly carefully to avoid scoring the barrel
  
• Inspect all components for wear, corrosion, or deformation
  
• Clean parts with solvent and compressed air
  
• Replace seals and reassemble with hydraulic-compatible grease
  
• Torque gland nut to spec and test for leaks under pressure
  

Some crews fabricate custom spanner tools for large gland nuts. Others use a hydraulic press to remove stubborn piston heads or bushings.
Preventive Maintenance and Long-Term Solutions
To extend cylinder life:

• Replace hydraulic fluid every 1,000 hours or annually
  
• Use high-quality filters and inspect for contamination
  
• Avoid overloading blade or attachments beyond rated pressure
  
• Lubricate pivot points and rod ends monthly
  
• Store machine with blade lowered to reduce rod exposure
  
• Inspect seal condition during every service interval
  

In Ohio, a contractor added rod boots to their 570B cylinders to protect against dust and gravel spray during shoulder grading. This reduced seal wear and extended service intervals by 40%.
Field Anecdote and Practical Insight
In Baghdad, a 570B used for canal grading began leaking fluid from the left lift cylinder during a multi-week project. The crew discovered that the rod had been nicked by a rock, causing seal failure. After polishing the rod and installing a new seal kit, the machine returned to full function. A minor surface defect had nearly halted the entire operation.
Conclusion
Hydraulic cylinder service on the John Deere 570B is a critical maintenance task that ensures precise blade control and safe operation. With proper disassembly, inspection, and seal replacement, operators can restore full hydraulic performance and extend the life of this dependable motor grader. Whether shaping rural roads or maintaining urban infrastructure, a healthy hydraulic system keeps the 570B working smoothly across seasons and terrain.