Hydraulic Cylinders Pushing Unevenly? Here’s Why It Happens

When dual hydraulic cylinders move at different speeds or reach full stroke at different times, you’re dealing with uneven extension. This can damage equipment, bend linkages, or stall movement entirely.

What Causes Uneven Cylinder Extension?

  • Air trapped in one cylinder: Compressible air affects timing and speed
  • Internal leak in one cylinder: Bypassing seals reduce stroke force and speed
  • Unequal cylinder bore or stroke: Mismatched specs lead to different travel rates
  • Valve timing imbalance: Flow split unevenly between circuits
  • Bent rods or damaged mounts: Increases resistance in one side of the system

How to Test for the Problem

  • Bleed both cylinders and test for air in return
  • Disconnect rod ends and extend individually to test sync
  • Pressure test each cylinder for internal bypass
  • Inspect rod condition, stroke length, and cylinder bore diameter

Repair Solutions

  • Reseal or replace the leaking cylinder
  • Bleed air from both sides and refill with clean fluid
  • Check and match cylinder specs before replacement
  • Replace or re-time flow dividers and valve sections

Conclusion

Uneven cylinder movement can throw your equipment out of balance fast. Matching flow, removing air, and replacing worn seals are all part of restoring synchronized hydraulic motion and preventing long-term damage.

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