Pressure is only half the equation; flow rate determines how fast your loader moves. We explain how to hook up an inline flow meter to test the true health of your hydraulic pump.

A pump can often build maximum pressure when dead-headed against a closed valve, but fail miserably to deliver the required gallons-per-minute under actual load. By connecting a heavy-duty hydraulic flow meter directly into the remote SCV valves, technicians can simulate a load by turning a restrictor dial. If the flow drops significantly as the pressure rises, it indicates severe internal leakage within the pump's piston block or a faulty pressure compensator valve.