Service Training Manual ECM 370

HYDRAULIC RETURN CIRCUIT

The currently produced ECM 370 units are configured as shown in the
schematic in this section. The hydraulic reservoir is pressurized to a
minimum of 10 PSI by air from the compressor circuit. Earlier units
depended on the expansion of the hydraulic fluid and the air in the
reservoir as the unit warmed up to create pressure in the reservoir.
Previous reservoirs were equipped with a 15 PSI relief valve to limit
internal reservoir pressure whereas the later units have a 20 -25 PSI
relief valve. In both cases fluid is returned from machine functions to
a common return manifold. The only outlet from the return manifold is
across a 2 PSI check valve. From the check valve fluid is directed to
the return filter. The filter is rated for 10-Micron absolute filtration.
The filter is equipped with a 25 PSI bypass.

NOTE: For optimum component life it is important to change the

return filter prior to it reaching the bypass condition.

From the filter the fluid returns directly to the reservoir. Inside the
reservoir there are two suction strainers. One strainer is used for each
hydraulic pump on the machine. Earlier units were equipped with an
air powered filler pump. This pump could be operated with air
supplied by the on-board compressor.

Caution: If the hydraulic reservoir has been drained, DO NOT

operate the engine to supply air for the filler pump. Starting the
engine when there is no fluid in the hydraulic will lead to
catastrophic failure of the hydraulic pumps on the unit. Use air
supplied from another source for filling the hydraulic reservoir.

Later units have a manual pump for filling the reservoir. In both cases
the new hydraulic fluid passes through the 10-Micron filter prior to
entering the reservoir.

Caution: NEVER add hydraulic fluid to the unit except through

the filtering system. Even fluid from a “clean drum” has a
contamination level in excess of the recommended particle count
required for optimum component life.

Chapter 4 Page 1 Return Circuit

Service Training Manual ECM 370

RETURN CIRCUIT

25 PSI BYPASS

25
PSI

2
PSI
FROM AIR SYSTEM

10
PSI

SUCTION
STRAINERS

Chapter 4 Page 2 Return Circuit