How to Make Your Own Hydrolastic Pump: A Comprehensive Guide

 

How to Make Your Own Hydrolastic Pump: A Comprehensive Guide

Hydrolastic pumps are hydraulic pumps used for suspensions in vehicles. They are commonly used in classic cars and minis. If you're interested in DIY and want to save some money, you can make your own hydrolastic pump. This guide will walk you through the process of making a hydrolastic pump step by step.

Materials You'll Need

Before you start making your own hydrolastic pump, you'll need to gather the following materials:

  • 2 liters of hydraulic fluid
  • 2 hydraulic fittings with 7/16" UNF threads
  • 2 hydraulic hoses with 7/16" UNF threads
  • 1 hydraulic ram with 7/16" UNF threads
  • 2 hydraulic unions with 7/16" UNF threads
  • 1 piece of steel tubing with a diameter of 3/8"
  • 1 piece of aluminum tubing with a diameter of 3/8"
  • 1 drill press or hand drill
  • 1 tap set with a 7/16" UNF tap
  • 1 hacksaw
  • 1 file
  • 1 vice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the materials you need, you can begin making your own hydrolastic pump. Follow these step-by-step instructions:


Step 1: Create the Cylinder

  1. Take the aluminum tubing and cut it into a cylinder with a length of 3.5 inches.
  2. Use the drill press or hand drill to drill a hole in the center of the cylinder.
  3. Use the tap set to tap the hole with a 7/16" UNF tap.
  4. Screw in one of the hydraulic fittings into the hole.

Step 2: Create the Piston

  1. Take the steel tubing and cut it into a piston with a length of 2.5 inches.
  2. File down the edges of the piston until it is smooth.
  3. Use the tap set to tap one end of the piston with a 7/16" UNF tap.
  4. Screw in the hydraulic ram into the threaded end of the piston.

Step 3: Connect the Cylinder and Piston

  1. Slide the piston into the cylinder.
  2. Connect one end of the hydraulic hose to the hydraulic fitting on the cylinder.
  3. Connect the other end of the hydraulic hose to one of the hydraulic unions.
  4. Screw the other hydraulic fitting into the hydraulic union.

Step 4: Connect the Pump

  1. Connect the other hydraulic hose to the hydraulic ram.
  2. Connect the other end of the hydraulic hose to the second hydraulic union.
  3. Screw the hydraulic ram into the second hydraulic fitting.
  4. Fill the cylinder with hydraulic fluid.

Step 5: Test the Pump

  1. Put the pump into a vice.
  2. Use the hydraulic ram to compress the piston and watch the fluid move through the hoses.

Tips and Tricks

  • Make sure all fittings and hoses are tight before using the pump.
  • Use hydraulic fluid that is recommended for use in hydraulic systems.
  • Always use caution when working with hydraulic systems.

Conclusion

Making your own hydrolastic pump can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. With the right materials and some patience, you can create a pump that will work just as well as a professionally made one. Just remember to take your time and follow the instructions carefully.

FAQs

  1. What is a hydrolastic pump used for? A hydrolastic pump is used for suspensions in vehicles.
  2. What materials do I need to make a hydrolastic pump?
  3. Can I use different diameter tubing for the cylinder and piston? No, it's important to use tubing with the same diameter to ensure a tight fit.
  4. Do I need any special tools to make a hydrolastic pump? Yes, you will need a tap set and either a drill press or a hand drill.
  5. Is it safe to make your own hydrolastic pump? Yes, as long as you follow the instructions carefully and take appropriate safety precautions when working with hydraulic systems.

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