What Causes a Hydraulic Cylinder to Extend but Not Retract?

[ORhett]

This situation is most likely caused by a bent piston rod. Here are the reasons why a hydraulic cylinder can extend but not retract: 1. Reason one: When extending, the hydraulic fluid acts on the entire piston, generating greater thrust force and outward movement, making it easier. 2. Reason two: Retraction is different. Although the hydraulic fluid also acts on the piston, it uses pulling force. Part of the force acts on the piston rod, failing to generate sufficient pulling force, resulting in loss. Therefore, under the same pressure and load, retraction cannot be achieved, and manual pressure increase is required. Solution: Replace the hydraulic cylinder.