Despite sensing a whole lot of disinterest by the group as a whole, there might be a couple SW48 folks out there...
Symptoms: Slow, jerky hydraulics for 20 minutes, followed by stumbling engine at idle, followed by pump seizure/belt disintegration and establishment of a very large driveway ornament.
Conclusion: New pump, pulley, drivebelt, fittings, control block, relief valves. Cost - about $600. Works like a charm, maintains use of remote operating levers, remains hidden below seat, uses original mounting brackets for pump and control block.
What I learned: SW48 (1988) used Vickers pumps, Griesen control blocks. Griesen was bought by Parker who discontinued most of the line - parts are not available. I learned that the squealing noise I first heard is not a low fluid noise, rather it indicates the relief valve is in use. When the relief valve takes all the pressure the vane pumps are prone to fail. Buying new was cheaper than any quote for Vickers repair.
Pictures: After I get them taken, I will post part numbers, suppliers and pics of everything so folks can redo their entire hydraulic system with new parts.
The really good news: Supposed to get a foot of heavy wet snow tomorrow in Syracuse and thanks to todays half-day at work, I am finally good to go.
Wish I had a real snowcat, but.....
Symptoms: Slow, jerky hydraulics for 20 minutes, followed by stumbling engine at idle, followed by pump seizure/belt disintegration and establishment of a very large driveway ornament.
Conclusion: New pump, pulley, drivebelt, fittings, control block, relief valves. Cost - about $600. Works like a charm, maintains use of remote operating levers, remains hidden below seat, uses original mounting brackets for pump and control block.
What I learned: SW48 (1988) used Vickers pumps, Griesen control blocks. Griesen was bought by Parker who discontinued most of the line - parts are not available. I learned that the squealing noise I first heard is not a low fluid noise, rather it indicates the relief valve is in use. When the relief valve takes all the pressure the vane pumps are prone to fail. Buying new was cheaper than any quote for Vickers repair.
Pictures: After I get them taken, I will post part numbers, suppliers and pics of everything so folks can redo their entire hydraulic system with new parts.
The really good news: Supposed to get a foot of heavy wet snow tomorrow in Syracuse and thanks to todays half-day at work, I am finally good to go.
Wish I had a real snowcat, but.....
