Caterpillar T50E Cylinder Removal

[redgolfguy]

Looking to remove mast and side shift cylinders on this forklift to be rebuilt. Any tips or tricks to doing this project? Also what is the best method to removing pressure out of the hydraulic lines on this type of equipment?

 

[TractorTech]

I don’t know that particular unit, but to remove the mast cylinder, you block up the mast about 4-6”, relieve the hydraulic pressure by moving the mast lever back and forth several times.

The sideshift cylinder should be accessible by tilting the mast all the way forward, extend the sideshift rod most of the way out and relieve the pressure on that circuit.

 

[redgolfguy]

I don’t know that particular unit, but to remove the mast cylinder, you block up the mast about 4-6”, relieve the hydraulic pressure by moving the mast lever back and forth several times.

The sideshift cylinder should be accessible by tilting the mast all the way forward, extend the sideshift rod most of the way out and relieve the pressure on that circuit.

For the sideshift pressure, will this by relieved similar to the mast? Therefore by extending the rod and then moving the lever back and forth several times?

 

[TractorTech]

Yes. The rod for the sideshift doesn't necessarily need to be extended all the way out though. Just gives you room to wrestle it out.

And of course, the engine is off when you are relieving the pressure.

 

[Norm W]

It doesn't hurt to disconnect the battery. If somebody tries to start the machine and move the controls you could have oil all over the place.