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    Hydraulic Cylinders

    Hydraulic Cylinders

    Brawn Meets Beauty RuggedMade Hydraulic Cylinders

    Expertly crafted using the highest grade materials, RuggedMade log splitter hydraulic cylinders are real workhorses that will not disappoint.

    Designed to tackle the toughest jobs in various applications, they are the perfect choice for upgrading or building your own log splitter.

    In addition to log splitter cylinders, we offer a wide variety of hydraulic cylinders to meet the specifications of many hydraulic applications, including compact construction equipment, forestry, agricultural implements, transportation equipment, race car lifts, and waste processing.

    You can choose from welded or tie-rod construction and mounting types, including clevis mounts and cross tube mounts.

    All RuggedMade hydraulic cylinders ship for free, and we have built-in discount pricing based on quantity!

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    Need Help Choosing a Cylinder?

     

    We understand that selecting the right hydraulic cylinder can be daunting. That's why this video is designed with you in mind. We'll walk you through key dimensions and specifications, empowering you to make an informed decision.

    Hydraulic cylinders are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They are used in various applications, from scissor lifts to skid steers, tractors, and log splitters, each with unique requirements. This diversity can make finding the right cylinder a challenge. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a machine operator, we're here to guide you in choosing the perfect hydraulic cylinder for your project, whether a replacement or a new build.

    Learn About RuggedMade Cylinders

    At RuggedMade, we know a thing or two about hydraulic cylinders. Having designed some of the best cylinders you'll find on any log splitter, we applied all of that expertise when developing our impressive line of multi-purpose cylinders.

    Whether you're shopping for a replacement cylinder or fabricating your own machine, RuggedMade has the right cylinder to get the job done.

    High-quality components and outstanding versatility are why the pros turn to RuggedMade hydraulic cylinders. Watch the video to learn more.

    What is a hydraulic cylinder?

    A hydraulic cylinder is a mechanical device that uses pressurized hydraulic fluid to create linear force and motion. It consists of a barrel, a piston, and a rod. When hydraulic fluid is pumped into one side of the cylinder, it pushes the piston, which in turn moves the rod back and forth. This motion is used to lift, push, pull, or press heavy loads in machines such as loaders, log splitters, excavators, and industrial equipment.

    In simple terms, it’s the “muscle” of a hydraulic system, converting fluid power into strong, controlled movement.

    How do hydraulic cylinders work?

    Hydraulic cylinders use pressurized fluid to move a piston inside a sealed barrel. As fluid flows in, it pushes the piston and extends the rod, creating strong, controlled motion. Reversing the fluid flow retracts the rod. This simple design delivers powerful, reliable linear movement.

    What are the different types of hydraulic cylinders?

    The most common types include:

    • Tie rod cylinders - Secured by threaded rods, versatile for many applications.
    • Welded cylinders - Compact and durable, with a threaded gland end cap for added strength.
    • Clevis mount cylinders - use a clevis fitting for easy pin mounting.
    • Pin eye cylinders - mounted with a round eye for pins.
    • Cross tube cylinders - use a welded tube across the end for mounting.
    • Ball swivel - allow more flexibility in how the cylinder is positioned.
    • Trunnion mounts - allows movement in an arc while delivering linear motion.

    RuggedMade offers both welded cylinders and tie-rod cylinders in a variety of sizes and configurations. These cylinder types are commonly used for log splitters, snowplows, tractor top-links, loader buckets and even custom-built machines like forge presses or car lifts.

    What’s the difference between a single-acting hydraulic cylinder and a double-acting hydraulic cylinder?

    A single-acting hydraulic cylinder uses hydraulic pressure in only one direction, usually to extend the rod. The return movement happens passively through gravity, a spring, or the weight of the load. These cylinders are simple, cost-effective, and commonly used in dump trailers, lifts, and agricultural applications where the load itself provides the retraction.

    A double-acting hydraulic cylinder, on the other hand, uses hydraulic pressure in both directions. That means fluid power is applied to extend the rod and also to retract it. This design provides more control, versatility, and efficiency in applications such as log splitters, construction machinery, and equipment where powered movement is needed both ways.

    How do I select a hydraulic cylinder?

    Focus on these key specifications

    • Stroke length - how far the rod extends and retracts.
    • Bore size - the inside diameter of the barrel, which determines how much force the cylinder can generate.
    • Rod diameter - the thickness of the rod, affecting strength and durability.
    • Mounting type - such as clevis, cross tube, or ball swivel.
    • Port size and thread type - NPT or SAE/ORB, depending on your machine’s fittings.

    By matching these details, you can choose a cylinder that fits your equipment or fabrication project

    What pressure ratings should I consider?

    Standard hydraulic cylinders rated for high-pressure use are often around 2500-3500 PSI. Most RuggedMade hydraulic cylinders are rated for up to 3000 PSI working pressure, including both welded and tie-rod cylinders. Always check your machine’s hydraulic system specifications and choose a cylinder with a rating that matches or exceeds those requirements for safe, reliable operation.

    Can I use aftermarket cylinders on my machinery?

    Yes. Many RuggedMade cylinders are used as direct replacements for OEM cylinders on equipment such as log splitters, and a wide range of implements like loaders, grapple buckets, and mowers. As long as the bore, stroke, rod, ports, and mounts match your specs, an aftermarket cylinder will often perform as well as or better than OEM. In fact, many of our customers are DIY builders who use our cylinders for custom projects like forge presses, wheel crushers, or car lifts.

    Are RuggedMade hydraulic cylinders compatible with standard mounting brackets?

    Yes. RuggedMade cylinders are designed with common mounting options like clevis, pin eye, and ball swivel, making them drop-in replacements for many popular machines. For example, our top-link cylinders fit most three-point tractor hitches, and certain models are easy replacements for popular snowplows.

    Which hydraulic cylinder fits my equipment?

    The right cylinder depends on your machine’s specifications. Measure your existing cylinder’s stroke, bore, rod diameter, port type, and mounting style. RuggedMade’s website makes it easy to filter products by these specs, and each product includes detailed schematics with dimensions. Whether you’re replacing an OEM part or building something custom, RuggedMade has cylinders to fit your project.

    Why choose a RuggedMade hydraulic cylinder?

    RuggedMade offers a wide range of hydraulic cylinders built for performance, reliability, and value. With multiple bore sizes, strokes, and mounting types available, it’s easy to find the right fit for your project. Our hydraulic cylinders are built from high-grade steels, with cast, forged, and billet parts machined to tight tolerances. Features include:

    • Threaded gland end caps for strength and easy servicing on welded models
    • Chrome-plated, finely polished rods for durability
    • High-quality seals for long life and reliable performance
    • UV-protected powder coating for lasting protection
    • Working pressures up to 3500 PSI

    We offer a wide range of affordable cylinders shipped directly to your door, with options for both single projects and bulk purchases.