How to Choose a Hydraulic Pump for an Excavator
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22 February, 2026
How to Choose a Hydraulic Pump for an Excavator: A Complete Guide
A practical guide to selecting, inspecting, and replacing the main hydraulic pump. Based on technical documentation from Kawasaki, Hitachi, Volvo, Hyundai, Doosan, CAT, JCB, and Sumitomo.
Table of Contents
- Types of Excavator Hydraulic Pumps
- Key Parameters When Choosing a Pump
- Compatibility Table: Excavator and Pump
- OEM vs Aftermarket: What to Choose
- Hydraulic Oil Requirements
- Hydraulic System Maintenance Intervals
- Signs of Pump Wear: When It's Time to Replace
- How to Order a Pump from Globexim UK
- Warranty Conditions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The hydraulic pump is the heart of any excavator. It creates the pressure and oil flow necessary for the operation of the boom, arm, bucket, swing platform, and undercarriage. Choosing the wrong pump leads to power loss, overheating of the hydraulic system, and costly equipment downtime.
In this guide, we will cover all aspects of choosing a hydraulic pump: from design types to specific models for popular excavators. The material is prepared based on service manuals from leading manufacturers.
1. Types of Excavator Hydraulic Pumps
Axial Piston Pumps (Main Type)
The vast majority of modern excavators weighing from 6 to 80 tons are equipped with swash-plate type axial piston pumps. This is the main type of pump you will find in equipment from Hitachi, Volvo, Hyundai, Doosan, CAT, JCB, Sumitomo, and other manufacturers.
Why axial piston?
They provide high operating pressure (up to 34.3 MPa nominal, up to 39.2 MPa peak), adjustable displacement, and high efficiency. The Kawasaki K3V and K5V series are the most common representatives of this type in construction equipment.
Configurations of axial piston pumps:
| Configuration | Designation | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Tandem | DT (Double Tandem) | Two pumps on one shaft, in series | Most 20-30 t excavators |
| Double Parallel | DP (Double Parallel) | Two pumps in parallel | Special applications |
| Single | S (Single) | One pump | Mini excavators, auxiliary circuits |
Gear Pumps (Pilot)
Gear pumps are used in excavators as pilot (auxiliary) pumps — they create pressure to control the main control valve and the regulators of the main pumps. The pilot pump is usually attached to the housing of the main pump.
Important: Do not confuse the main hydraulic pump with the pilot pump. When ordering spare parts, specify exactly which pump you need. The weight of the main pump for a 20-ton class excavator is about 125-170 kg, while the pilot pump is significantly lighter.
Vane Pumps
Rarely found in modern excavators. May be used in separate auxiliary circuits of older models.
2. Key Parameters When Choosing a Pump
When selecting a hydraulic pump, the following characteristics must be considered:
| Parameter | What it means | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement, cm3/rev | Volume of oil displaced per one shaft revolution | Speed of mechanism operation |
| Nominal Pressure, MPa | Pressure at which the service life is guaranteed | Force on cylinders and motors |
| Peak Pressure, MPa | Maximum allowable short-term pressure | Safety margin during peak loads |
| Max. Speed, rpm | Maximum shaft rotation frequency | Compatibility with the engine |
| Max. Torque, Nm | Maximum torque on the input shaft | Matching with engine power |
| Regulator Type | Method of performance control | Energy efficiency, operating modes |
| Direction of Rotation | Clockwise (R) or counterclockwise (L) | Compatibility with the drive |
| Connection Dimensions | Suction, discharge, and drain flanges | Mounting compatibility |
Expert Tip: The most reliable way to select a pump is by the part number from the nameplate of the old pump or from the excavator's parts catalog. If the number is erased, the selection is made based on the excavator model, serial number, and pump displacement.
Specifications of Kawasaki K3V and K5V Series
Below are the key characteristics of the most common series (data from Kawasaki technical documentation):
| Parameter | K3V63 | K3V112 | K3V140 | K3V280 | K5V80 | K5V140 | K5V200 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement, cm3/rev | 63 | 112 | 140 | 280 | 80 | 140 | 200 |
| Nominal Pressure, MPa | 34.3 | ||||||
| Peak Pressure, MPa | 39.2 | ||||||
| Max. Speed (Self-priming), rpm | 2 650 | 2 360 | 2 150 | 1 600 | 2 460 | 2 160 | 1 900 |
| Max. Speed (Absolute), rpm | 3 250 | 2 700 | 2 500 | 2 000 | 3 000 | 2 500 | 2 200 |
| Max. Torque (Tandem), Nm | 343 | 588 | 1 120 | 1 950 | 529 | 843 | 1 120 |
| Weight (Single), kg | 48 | 68 | 86 | 140 | 48 | 68 | 86 |
| Weight (Tandem), kg | 81 | 125 | 160 | 270 | 81 | 125 | 160 |
More about Kawasaki K3V/K5V: Read about marking decoding, regulator types, and detailed technical specifications in our specialized article: Kawasaki K3V/K5V: Technical Guide, Marking Decoding, and Maintenance.
3. Hydraulic Pump Selection by Excavator Brand
Below is a catalog of hydraulic pumps with direct links to products. Find your excavator brand and go to the page of the required pump:
Hydraulic Pump Selection by Excavator Brand
High-quality aftermarket analogs with guaranteed compatibility
| Brand | Pump Series | Excavator Models | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hitachi | HPV118HW | ZX200-3, ZX225US-3 | HPV | Details |
| Hitachi | HPV118JW | ZX240-5G, ZX200-5G | HPV | Details |
| Hyundai | K5V80DTP | R170W-7 | K5V | Details |
| Hyundai | K3V140DT | R290-7 | K3V | Details |
| Volvo | K5V140DT | EC250D, EC250DB | K5V | Details |
| Volvo | K3V140DT | EC290, EC290B, EC290NLC, EC290LC | K3V | Details |
| Volvo | K5V160DT | EC300D, EC300DB | K5V | Details |
| Komatsu | HPV95 | PC200-8 | HPV | Details |
| JCB | K3V112DTP | JS220, JS240 | K3V | Details |
| JCB | K3V112DT | JS200 | K3V | Details |
| Doosan | K3V112DT | DX225 | K3V | Details |
| Doosan | K3V112DTP | DH225-9E (Side PTO) | K3V | Details |
| Kobelco | K3V112DTP | SK230-6E | K3V | Details |
| CAT | SBS120 | E320C, 320D | SBS | Details |
Didn't find the pump you need? Contact us — we will select an analog for your equipment within one working day. The full catalog of hydraulic pumps is available in the Hydraulic Pumps section.
4. OEM vs Aftermarket: What to Choose
| Criterion | OEM (Original) | High-Quality Aftermarket |
|---|---|---|
| Price | High (100%) | 30-50% lower |
| Material Quality | Factory standard | Comparable (when choosing a reliable supplier) |
| Delivery Times | Often long (4-12 weeks) | Usually faster (in stock) |
| Warranty | Factory warranty | Parts manufacturer warranty |
| Availability for Older Models | Limited (discontinued) | Often available |
Globexim UK specializes in supplying high-quality aftermarket analogs of hydraulic pumps and components for excavators. We offer Kawasaki K3V, K5V, as well as HPV and SBS series pumps at competitive prices. All supplied parts are covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
5. Hydraulic Oil Requirements
Choosing the right hydraulic oil is critical for the pump's service life. Data from service manuals of various manufacturers:
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Oil Type | Antiwear hydraulic fluid |
| Viscosity Grade (Moderate Climate) | ISO VG 46 (from -10 to +30 C) |
| Viscosity Grade (Hot Climate) | ISO VG 68 (from 0 to +40 C) |
| Viscosity Grade (Cold Climate) | ISO VG 15 or VG 32 (from -30 to +10 C) |
| Operating Viscosity Range | 10 - 1 000 mm2/s (cSt) |
| Oil Temperature Range | from -20 to +95 C |
| Filtration (Suction Line) | 80 - 150 mesh |
| Filtration (Return Line) | Nominal 10 microns |
Warning: Never mix oils of different brands and types! This can lead to sludge formation, deterioration of lubricating properties, and accelerated pump wear. A complete system flush is recommended when changing oil.
Data from Hyundai R210W-9 manual: For the hydraulic system, ISO VG 46 is recommended at temperatures from -10 to +30 C, ISO VG 68 at temperatures from 0 to +40 C, ISO VG 15 for cold regions (from -30 to +10 C). Hydraulic system capacity: tank — 165 L, system — 340 L.
6. Hydraulic System Maintenance Intervals
Summary table of maintenance intervals based on Hyundai, Doosan, Hitachi, and JCB manuals:
| Operation | Interval | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Check hydraulic oil level | Daily | Before starting work |
| Check for leaks | Daily | Visual inspection of hoses, fittings, pump |
| Replace return filter | Every 1,000 hrs | Doosan, Hyundai — 1,000 hrs |
| Replace pilot filter | Every 500 hrs | Doosan — 500 hrs |
| Replace drain filter | Every 1,000 hrs | Hyundai — 1,000 hrs |
| Clean suction filter | Every 2,000 hrs | Hyundai — 2,000 hrs |
| Replace hydraulic oil (standard) | Every 2,000 hrs | Doosan — 2,000 hrs, Hyundai — 2,000 hrs |
| Replace hydraulic oil (Long Life) | Every 5,000 hrs | When using Long Life oil (Hyundai) |
| Check hoses, fittings, clamps | Every 2,000 hrs | Tighten, replace if necessary |
Important: The specified intervals are approximate. Always follow the recommendations of the manufacturer of your specific excavator. In severe operating conditions (dust, high temperature, working with a hydraulic breaker), intervals should be shortened.
7. Signs of Pump Wear: When It's Time to Replace
Data from K3V112DT, Hitachi, JCB, and Doosan manuals:
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| General decrease in power of all functions | Pump wear, performance drop | Replace pump or use a repair kit |
| Increased noise, pump vibration | Cavitation, clogged suction filter, air suction | Check filter, oil level, suction line tightness |
| Overheating of hydraulic oil | Internal leaks in the pump, incorrect oil viscosity | Check temperature, change oil to correct viscosity |
| External oil leak from the pump | Shaft seal wear, damaged gaskets | Replace seals (repair kits) |
| Pump does not build pressure | Internal leak, piston/cylinder wear, air suction | Replace pump |
| Uneven operation (jerking) | Valve plate wear, regulator problems | Diagnostics, replace worn parts |
| Metal shavings in filter/oil | Destruction of piston shoes, bearing wear | Immediate pump replacement |
| Machine drifts when moving | Uneven wear of pumps (left/right) | Pressure diagnostics, replace worn pump |
Critical Wear Tolerances (K3V112DT):
- Piston-cylinder clearance: standard 0.043 mm, limit — 0.08 mm
- Spherical joint clearance: standard 0.058 mm, limit — 0.4 mm
- Servo piston clearance (small chamber): standard 0.083 mm, limit — 0.2 mm
- Servo piston clearance (large chamber): standard 0.079 mm, limit — 0.2 mm
- Gear backlash: standard 0.68 mm, limit — 1.5 mm
8. How to Order a Pump from Globexim UK
So that we can quickly and accurately select the right pump for your excavator, please send us the following information:
- Photo of the excavator's nameplate — it shows the model, serial number, and year of manufacture of the machine
- Photo of the pump's nameplate — it shows the part number, serial number, and displacement. The nameplate is usually located on the pump housing
- Photo of the old pump (if possible) — this will help determine the configuration and regulator type
Why is this important? Even the same excavator model can be equipped with different pump modifications depending on the serial number, delivery region, and year of manufacture. Photos of the nameplates are the most reliable way to avoid mistakes when selecting.
9. Warranty Conditions
All spare parts supplied by Globexim UK are covered by the manufacturer's warranty. To receive warranty service, the following conditions must be met:
- Pump replacement must be performed by a qualified specialist — a certified service center or a specialist with appropriate qualifications
- The fact of replacement must be confirmed by a certificate of completion — a document from the service center or specialist who performed the installation
- Compliance with operating recommendations — using hydraulic oil of the correct viscosity, observing maintenance intervals
Warning: The warranty does not cover cases of self-installation without supporting documents, use of inappropriate oil, or violation of operating rules. Keep the certificate of completion for the entire warranty period.
Looking for a hydraulic pump for an excavator?
Globexim UK — high-quality aftermarket hydraulic pumps Kawasaki K3V, K5V, HPV, SBS, and components with a warranty. Delivery across the UK and EU.
Contact Us10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a K5V140 pump instead of a K3V112?
K5V is an upgraded series with increased power density. Replacement is possible only if the connection dimensions match and it is coordinated with the regulator. Consultation with a specialist is recommended.
How to determine if the pump is worn out and not a problem with the control valve?
Measure the pressure at the pump outlet. If the pressure is below normal at full load, the problem is in the pump. If the pressure is normal, but the functions work slowly, check the control valve, cylinders, and motors. Also, check the drain oil from the pump housing for metal shavings.
What is the service life of an excavator hydraulic pump?
The service life of a hydraulic pump depends on many factors: operating conditions, quality of hydraulic oil, compliance with maintenance intervals, and the qualifications of the specialists performing the installation. Timely replacement of oil and filters, as well as the use of oil of the correct viscosity, are key conditions for maximizing the pump's service life.
Can the pump be repaired instead of replaced entirely?
Yes, in many cases, replacing a repair kit (pistons, shoes, cylinder block, valve plate, seals) is sufficient. This is significantly cheaper than a full replacement. Repairs must be performed by a qualified specialist in clean conditions. Repair kits are in stock.
What happens if I use oil of the wrong viscosity?
Oil that is too viscous (especially at low temperatures) causes cavitation, increased noise, and accelerated wear. Oil that is too thin does not provide sufficient lubrication and leads to internal leaks and overheating. Always choose viscosity according to the ambient temperature.
How much does an aftermarket K3V112DT pump cost?
The price depends on the configuration and manufacturer. Aftermarket analogs are usually 30-50% cheaper than the original. For the current price, contact us — we will find the best option.
How to properly install a new pump?
According to technical documentation, the installation and removal of a hydraulic pump must be performed by qualified specialists. Before installation, it is necessary to: relieve pressure in the system, fill the pump housing with oil, and bleed air from the system after installation. The manufacturer's warranty is valid provided it is installed by a qualified specialist and confirmed by a certificate of completion from a service center or specialist (for details, see the warranty conditions below).
Where can I find more technical information?
Visit our FAQ on installation and selection of Kawasaki K3V/K5V pumps, and read other articles in the Articles section.
Sources and Materials Used
- Kawasaki K3V/K5V Series Technical Specifications (KPM Kawasaki Precision Machinery)
- K3V112DT Instruction Manual (Kawasaki)
- Hitachi Zaxis ZX200/225USR/225US/230/270 Workshop Manual
- Volvo EC210B Operator's Manual
- Hyundai R210W-9 MH Operating Manual
- Doosan DX225LC-3 Operating Manual
- CAT 325 Operation and Maintenance Manual
- JCB JS200/JS220 Service Manual (9803/JSM-0412)
- Sumitomo SH145X-6 / SH145XU-6 Operator's Manual
- Official website of Kawasaki Precision Machinery: kpm.co.jp
Globexim UK is not an official dealer or representative of the specified manufacturers. We offer high-quality aftermarket analogs of spare parts. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. The information is provided for reference purposes.
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