4 hours ago
The JLG T350 Towable Electric Lift is an essential piece of equipment used in a variety of industries for aerial work. However, like all machinery, it can sometimes experience operational issues. One common problem that operators may encounter is when the lift won't go down, making it difficult to safely lower the platform. This article covers the potential causes of this issue and provides troubleshooting steps to resolve the problem.
Understanding the Problem: Lift Won’t Lower
If after completing the above steps, the lift still won’t lower, it may be time to contact a professional technician. Persistent hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical issues can be difficult to resolve without specialized knowledge and tools.
Conclusion
The JLG T350 Towable Electric Lift is an essential tool for high-altitude work, but like any machinery, it can experience issues. When the lift refuses to lower, the cause is often related to the hydraulic system, control valve, electrical components, or safety interlocks. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, operators can often resolve the issue themselves. If problems persist, professional assistance may be required to get the lift back to full working order.
Understanding the Problem: Lift Won’t Lower
- The Symptom:
- The primary issue described is the inability to lower the lift, even after activation of the controls. This can lead to frustration and concerns over the safety of the equipment, especially if the operator is stuck at height.
- Impact on Work: Not being able to lower the lift can disrupt work schedules and cause delays. It’s crucial to address the issue quickly to ensure the lift can be used safely again.
- The primary issue described is the inability to lower the lift, even after activation of the controls. This can lead to frustration and concerns over the safety of the equipment, especially if the operator is stuck at height.
- Control Valve Malfunction:
- One of the most common reasons for a lift not lowering is a malfunction with the control valve. The control valve is responsible for regulating the hydraulic fluid that controls the lift’s movement. If it fails to properly direct the fluid, the lift may not descend as expected.
- Solution: Check the control valve for any signs of wear or damage. If the valve is clogged or not functioning correctly, it may need to be cleaned or replaced.
- One of the most common reasons for a lift not lowering is a malfunction with the control valve. The control valve is responsible for regulating the hydraulic fluid that controls the lift’s movement. If it fails to properly direct the fluid, the lift may not descend as expected.
- Hydraulic System Issues:
- A common culprit for issues with the lift’s movement is the hydraulic system. Low hydraulic fluid levels, air in the system, or a malfunctioning hydraulic pump can prevent the lift from lowering.
- Solution: Begin by checking the hydraulic fluid levels. If the fluid is low, top it up with the appropriate type of hydraulic fluid. If the fluid is contaminated or dirty, a full system flush may be necessary. Additionally, ensure that no air is trapped in the hydraulic lines.
- A common culprit for issues with the lift’s movement is the hydraulic system. Low hydraulic fluid levels, air in the system, or a malfunctioning hydraulic pump can prevent the lift from lowering.
- Electrical System Failure:
- Since the JLG T350 is an electric lift, electrical issues may also be the cause of the problem. A faulty relay, fuse, or wiring issue could prevent the system from sending the proper signals to the hydraulic system to initiate the lowering function.
- Solution: Inspect the lift’s electrical components, including the fuses, wiring, and relays. Look for any visible damage or signs of wear. If any parts are found to be faulty, they should be repaired or replaced.
- Since the JLG T350 is an electric lift, electrical issues may also be the cause of the problem. A faulty relay, fuse, or wiring issue could prevent the system from sending the proper signals to the hydraulic system to initiate the lowering function.
- Safety Interlocks:
- Many aerial lifts, including the JLG T350, are equipped with safety interlocks designed to prevent certain functions from occurring under unsafe conditions. For instance, if the lift is not level or if there is a problem with the emergency stop system, the lift may not lower.
- Solution: Check for any active safety interlocks that might be preventing the lift from lowering. Ensure that the lift is on a level surface, and verify that all emergency systems are properly reset.
- Many aerial lifts, including the JLG T350, are equipped with safety interlocks designed to prevent certain functions from occurring under unsafe conditions. For instance, if the lift is not level or if there is a problem with the emergency stop system, the lift may not lower.
- Check Hydraulic Fluid:
- Start by inspecting the hydraulic fluid levels. If low, add the appropriate fluid. If the fluid appears contaminated, perform a system flush and refill the reservoir with fresh hydraulic fluid.
- Start by inspecting the hydraulic fluid levels. If low, add the appropriate fluid. If the fluid appears contaminated, perform a system flush and refill the reservoir with fresh hydraulic fluid.
- Inspect the Control Valve:
- Look for signs of dirt, debris, or damage in the control valve. If you suspect the valve is malfunctioning, consult the operator’s manual for instructions on cleaning or replacing it.
- Look for signs of dirt, debris, or damage in the control valve. If you suspect the valve is malfunctioning, consult the operator’s manual for instructions on cleaning or replacing it.
- Examine Electrical Components:
- Check the fuses, wiring, and relays in the electrical system. Replace any damaged or corroded parts and test the lift after making repairs.
- Check the fuses, wiring, and relays in the electrical system. Replace any damaged or corroded parts and test the lift after making repairs.
- Ensure Safety Interlocks Are Disengaged:
- Confirm that the lift is on stable, level ground and that all safety interlocks are properly reset. If the lift is on an incline or has been operated improperly, the system may prevent the lift from descending for safety reasons.
- Confirm that the lift is on stable, level ground and that all safety interlocks are properly reset. If the lift is on an incline or has been operated improperly, the system may prevent the lift from descending for safety reasons.
If after completing the above steps, the lift still won’t lower, it may be time to contact a professional technician. Persistent hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical issues can be difficult to resolve without specialized knowledge and tools.
Conclusion
The JLG T350 Towable Electric Lift is an essential tool for high-altitude work, but like any machinery, it can experience issues. When the lift refuses to lower, the cause is often related to the hydraulic system, control valve, electrical components, or safety interlocks. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, operators can often resolve the issue themselves. If problems persist, professional assistance may be required to get the lift back to full working order.
