Hydraulic Dock Leveler Troubleshooting Guide

Are you having issues with your hydraulic dock leveler, but don't exactly know what's wrong with it? Problems are definitely common after a certain amount of use, but don't worry. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just entered the warehousing industry, this guide will help you troubleshoot your hydraulic dock leveler. Let's get started!

How to troubleshoot hydraulic dock levelers

When the efficiency of your business is seriously impacted because of a malfunctioning dock leveler, it can be extremely frustrating. Here are some troubleshooting tips that can help you find a practical solution for your hydraulic dock leveler problem:

1. Inspect your power supply - One of the most important things to look at when identifying problems is the power supply. A simple but often disregarded reason for malfunctioning dock levelers could be a lack of power.

Start by making sure the motor is receiving electricity from the supply. Verify that every switch and circuit breaker is operational and connected properly. Also, check for any damaged wiring or loose connections that could cause a power outage.

2. Inspect motor operation - After checking your power supply, you should be inspecting the motor itself. While the machine is operating, look for any indications of damage, overheating, or loud noises. If dirt or a lack of lubrication is apparent, then the motor may need to be cleaned or lubricated.

3. Check the control panel - The problem may also come from the control panel. Try checking its components, including the buttons, switches, and indicator lights, for any wear and damage. A faulty connection or bad wiring can also be the root of the problem. 

Check to see whether the motor or sensors are having issues as indicated by any error codes or warning signals. If there is, then you may need to reset the control panel or replace faulty components. 

4. Examine its hydraulic system - Inspecting the hydraulic system is an important step in troubleshooting your hydraulic dock leveler. Check for leaks, such as oily residues around the fittings, low fluid levels, or damaged hoses. 

Make sure that the hydraulic fluid is flowing freely and that all connections are tight. If a leak is found, it should be fixed right away, and the fluid should be replaced with the right kind and grade as advised by the manufacturer.

5. Check the sensors - Inspect the sensors that measure the dock leveler's alignment and position. Clear away any debris, dust, or grime that can impair their functionality. If necessary, move them to ensure proper alignment with the movable parts of the dock leveler.

At this point, if the troubleshooting tips above didn't make the problem obvious, then it it's highly recommended that you have professional technician come and take a look at it. Experts who specialize in hydraulic dock leveler repairs have the experience and knowledge to identify and resolve the underlying problem efficiently.

We offer dock leveler repair service all across Canada, so please feel free to contact us if you need help.

How often should dock leveler be serviced?

Operators should inspect the hydraulic dock leveler as part of their daily routine before using it. In addition, a more thorough examination and maintenance must be done every 90 days for a single shift operation and every month for multi-shift operation. This is extremely important for safety purposes, but also to avoid costly repairs in the long-term.

Related articles: Guide To Dock Leveler Maintenance / How to Use a Dock Leveler

Get a professional to troubleshoot your dock leveler

Don't wait for your dock leveler to be completely broken before you have an expert take a look at it. Identifying small issues and having them repaired as soon as possible greatly increases its life span. 

You should have your dock leveler checked out by a professional immediately if it displays any of the following issues:

• Visible rust
• The dock leveler is making a weird noise
• The deck plate is warped
• The beam welds are damaged
• The lip won’t fully extend/won’t stay extended
• The lip won’t come down
• The lip is bent or cracked
• The plate lifts up when driven over

Is your dock leveler in need of repair?

Here at WarehouseWiz, we offer dock leveler repair and maintenance services throughout the Quebec, Ontario, Vancouver, and the rest of Canada. Our specialists and network of professionals are qualified, trained, and ready to resolve your dock leveler issues.

Not only that, but we also manufacture high-quality and affordable dock levelers. So if you are in need of a replacement, you're in good hands.

Don't hesitate to email or call us for your dock leveler repair and maintenance needs. For emergencies, you may reach us at 438-817-4797.