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Excavator Operator Certification Exam Prep · Question

An excavator's hydraulic relief valve repeatedly opens, causing the boom to 'chatter' under load despite the pump sounding normal. Which of the following is the most probable cause?

If the relief valve activates at lower pressures than intended, it will prematurely open, causing the system to bypass fluid and leading to chatter or loss of p

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Question: An excavator's hydraulic relief valve repeatedly opens, causing the boom to 'chatter' under load despite the pump sounding normal. Which of the following is the most probable cause?

Answer options:

  • A perfectly seated and functioning relief valve.
  • A clogged return line filter.
  • A worn or damaged hydraulic cylinder packing seal. ✅ An improperly adjusted or faulty relief valve setting.

Correct answer: An improperly adjusted or faulty relief valve setting.

Explanation: If the relief valve activates at lower pressures than intended, it will prematurely open, causing the system to bypass fluid and leading to chatter or loss of power under load. This suggests an issue with the valve's setting or internal condition.

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