HYDRAULIC SERVICES FAQS

Miller Hydraulic serves a wide range of industries, which means we service a variety of hydraulic equipment. Equipment like compactors, dumping systems, presses, and lifts all require hydraulic components such as cylinders, valves, and hoses. Miller Hydraulic offers repairs and parts fabrication for all types of hydraulic equipment. Visit our Industries page to learn more about how Miller Hydraulic keeps your operations running smoothly.

Yes! Miller Hydraulic has a shop conveniently located in Manteno, IL, and we also offer on-site services throughout central and northern Illinois, as well as Northwest Indiana. We cover a roughly 100-mile radius around Manteno with on-site and emergency hydraulic repairs. To view our service areas, click here.

Hydraulic system maintenance is an important factor in keeping your operation running smoothly. Regular filter changes, fluid replacement, and diagnostic check-ups can help prevent system breakdowns, reducing downtime and repair costs. Maintenance is a powerful tool for ensuring continuous peak performance of your hydraulic equipment.

Some common signs your hydraulic system may need repair include:

• Slow or weak performance: If your lift, press, or compactor is moving slower than usual, low pressure or internal leaks could be the issue.
• Unusual noises: Whining, banging, or knocking sounds often indicate air in the system, cavitation, or worn hydraulic components.
• Fluid leaks: Puddles or oil residue around hoses, fittings, or cylinders are clear signs of a leak needing immediate repair.
• Overheating: Excess heat may signal restricted flow, low fluid levels, or contaminated fluids.
• Jerky or inconsistent movement: Uneven operation may point to air in the lines, damaged seals, or malfunctioning valves.
• Loss of pressure: If your equipment struggles to lift, press, or hold a load, there may be a problem with the pump, valves, or cylinders.
• Contaminated hydraulic fluid: Dark, milky, or gritty oil means water or debris has entered the system.
• Excessive vibration: Shuddering or shaking during operation can indicate misalignment or uneven fluid flow.
• Warning lights or fault codes: Modern hydraulic equipment may display alerts for issues like overheating or low pressure.
• Burning or unusual odors: A burnt smell can signal overheated oil or internal damage.

The key to preventing full-system breakdowns is prompt repairs, precise diagnostics, and proper maintenance. By addressing issues right away, you can stop damage from spreading and avoid more costly repairs. Maintenance helps keep your system running by ensuring optimal performance of individual components. Accurate diagnostics ensure your problem—and any hidden ones—are resolved correctly for long-term operation.

Our team works quickly and carefully to reduce your downtime. The length of repairs depends on the complexity of the issue and the availability of parts and materials. Minor hose or seal repairs can often be completed the same day, while full cylinder or pump rebuilds may take several days. Our shop is always well-stocked to ensure a quick turnaround.

Repairs typically involve fixing specific parts, like replacing a seal, hose, or valve, to get your system back in action. Hydraulic rebuilds involve disassembling your system, cleaning and inspecting each component, and replacing worn parts—either through fabrication or new supply. Rebuilding restores the hydraulic system to like-new condition and often extends its lifespan significantly. Our team will help assess your situation and determine whether repair or rebuilding best suits your budget and timeline.

Yes! Miller Hydraulic services all types of hydraulic equipment, including roll-off trucks, truck-mounted construction equipment, hydraulic presses, and trash compactors. Whether your equipment is mobile or stationary, Miller Hydraulic is here to help. Plus, we offer both on-site and in-shop services—so you don’t have to transport your equipment to us (though you absolutely can!).