A hydraulic cylinder has reduced lifting capacity, but the pump pressures are within specs. What should be done next?

When a hydraulic cylinder exhibits a reduced lifting capacity while the pump pressures remain within specifications, it indicates a potential issue with the cylinder itself rather than the pump. Conducting a cylinder leakage test is essential in this scenario because it directly assesses the integrity and operational condition of the hydraulic cylinder.

During a cylinder leakage test, you will verify if there are any leaks in the cylinder seals or within the cylinder barrel itself. A significant amount of hydraulic fluid escaping from the cylinder due to worn seals or internal wear can lead to diminished lifting power. This test helps determine if the problem lies in the cylinder's ability to maintain pressure and it will provide insight into the need for repairs or replacement.

Other options may address secondary issues, such as checking control valves for functionality, but the fundamental issue of loss of lifting capacity points most directly to the integrity of the hydraulic cylinder, hence making a leakage test a priority for troubleshooting.