How to Replace Auxiliary Hydraulics on a Skid Steer

Skid steers and compact track loaders rely on auxiliary hydraulic systems to power attachments like grapples, augers, trenchers, and brush cutters. However, different attachments require different flow rates, and upgrading or downgrading hydraulic couplings can improve compatibility.

Why Replace Auxiliary Hydraulics on a Skid Steer?

Skid steers and compact track loaders rely on auxiliary hydraulic systems to power attachments like grapples, augers, trenchers, and brush cutters. However, different attachments require different flow rates, and upgrading or downgrading hydraulic couplings can improve compatibility.

Faster’s auxiliary hydraulic line blocks, used by top brands like Caterpillar, Bobcat, JCB, John Deere, and Kubota, make it easy to swap 1/2″ and 3/4″ cartridges without extensive mechanical expertise. This guide explains how to replace auxiliary hydraulic cartridges efficiently.

Benefits of Gute’s Auxiliary Hydraulic Line Blocks

✅ Easy Cartridge Replacement – Quickly swap between 1/2″ and 3/4″ hydraulic cartridges.
✅ Improved Attachment Flexibility – Use high-flow attachments on standard-flow skid steers and vice versa.
✅ No Specialized Skills Required – Operators can perform the replacement with a simple cartridge replacement kit.
✅ Minimized Downtime – Fast and hassle-free installation keeps your equipment running.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Auxiliary Hydraulic Cartridges

1️⃣ Gather the Necessary Tools – Obtain a Faster cartridge replacement kit, which includes all required parts and instructions.
2️⃣ Ensure Safety First – Turn off the skid steer, relieve hydraulic pressure, and secure the machine.
3️⃣ Remove Existing Cartridges – Unscrew the current 1/2″ or 3/4″ hydraulic cartridges from the auxiliary block.
4️⃣ Install the New Cartridges – Insert the replacement cartridges (1/2″ or 3/4″) securely and tighten them.
5️⃣ Check for Leaks – Reconnect hoses, restart the system, and test for any leaks or performance issues.

Does Changing Cartridge Size Affect Hydraulic Flow?

Switching between 1/2″ and 3/4″ cartridges does not fully upgrade or downgrade the skid steer’s hydraulic flow rate. For a complete system modification, additional changes like upgrading the pump, rigid pipes, and diverter valve are required—these are costly and require professional installation.

However, replacing the hydraulic cartridges is a simple and effective way to ensure compatibility between attachments and different skid steer models without a major overhaul.

Ensure Hydraulic System Compatibility

Before replacing hydraulic cartridges, verify:
✔️ The attachment weight does not exceed the skid steer’s lifting capacity.
✔️ The hydraulic flow and pressure ratings match between the skid steer and the attachment.

Once these factors are confirmed, any operator can perform the cartridge swap with confidence.

Upgrade Your Skid Steer’s Auxiliary Hydraulics Today!

Get the right hydraulic setup for your attachments with Faster’s easy-to-use cartridge replacement kits.

🔗 Find the Right Replacement Kit for Your Skid Steer

Suggested Images:

1️⃣ Close-up of a skid steer’s hydraulic block with 1/2″ and 3/4″ cartridges.
2️⃣ Step-by-step illustration of replacing hydraulic cartridges.
3️⃣ Skid steer with different hydraulic attachments (e.g., auger, grapple, brush cutter).