How to Install and Remove Hydraulic Breaker for Mini Excavator

08, Sep. 2025

 

How to Install and Remove Hydraulic Breaker for Mini Excavator

A Hydraulic Breaker, also known as a percussion hammer, is a heavy mechanical device used to demolish concrete, asphalt, or stone materials. Hydraulic breakers are commonly seen in road construction and are preferred due to their high performance. Most mini excavators can be installed differently Hydraulic Breakers.

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This article is about the installation and removal of Hydraulic Breaker for Mini Excavator.

Fundamental circuit

When piping the hydraulic lines on-base machine, it is important to know the fundamental circuit to which the piping belongs. Then the piping can be connected correctly, properly and quickly

This Image is shown one of the simplest hydraulic circuits in the case of the installation of a service port into the main control valve of the base machine.

Tips: If the piping method is different from the Image, consult us or attachment manufacturer.

General view

Check the piping lines for the correctness of such as pressure, flows or pressure loss, if the hydraulic pipe once are installed in the base machine.

A pressure control valve has to be installed if there is no pressure control valve on the main control valve of the base machine.

The standard view of the installation

Installation of Hydraulic Breaker

  • Set the hydraulic breaker on horizontal ground.
  • Remove the bucket from the base machine after disassembling the two pins
  • Move the base machine in the vicinity of the hydraulic breaker, align the pinhole of the arm with the pinhole of the hydraulic breaker, and then, insert the pins.
  • After the arm pin is inserted, lift the boom, and insert the hydraulic breaker on the wood blocks like 4-3-3. Extend the bucket cylinder, fit it to the bucket link’s hole and insert the pins.
  • Install the stop rings, align the bolt holes and insert the bolts, mutually lock the double nut.
  • Stop the engine of the base machine, turn off the main switch and discharge the air pressure in the hydraulic oil tank.
  • Remove the union caps from the hydraulic breaker pipe of the arm end, and connect the hoses after disassembling the hose plug
  • Connect the hoses to the stop valve at both sides of the arm.
  • Turn on the engine of the base machine, left the boom, operate the bucket cylinder and check the hose of hydraulic breaker is connected correctly.
  • Starts warming up the base machine.
  • Turn the stop valves to the “ON” position

Notice:

  • Be careful so that dust may not enter the hydraulic breaker and base machine.
  • Install or remove the hydraulic breaker on the horizontal ground without mud or dust.
  • If the bucket cylinder is retracted, the installation will be easier.
  • If the stop rings are secured with one nut only, the service life of the bolt may be shortened or the bolt may be loosened out very quickly
  • Do not allow the oil to drop onto the ground.
  • Store the removed union cap and hose plug in the toolbox.
  • When installing or removing the oil hose and union cap, clean them fully to prevent the dust and mud from entering the hydraulic breaker of the base machine.
  • Warm up the base machine by idling for 5 minutes after starting the engine.
  • Move the boom and arm for approx. 5 minutes after warm-up operation to raise the hydraulic oil temperature of the base machine.

Removal of Hydraulic Breaker

  • Set the hydraulic breaker on clean and horizontal ground. Lock the packing brake of base machine.
  • Stop the engine.
  • Turn stop valve to “OFF” position.
  • Disconnect hoses from stop valves. Ensure no leakage occurs from hoses and stop valves.
  • Apply union cap and plug to hose ends fittings to prevent contamination.
  • Remove pins fixing fasteners.
  • Remove pins.
  • When pins have been withdrawn, move operating joystick slightly, to take the weight off remaining link pin.
  • Lift arm away from hydraulic breaker so that hydraulic breaker can be carried away, or another attachment mounted on-base machine.

Notice:

  • Cover the hydraulic breaker already removed with sheet, and then store it indoors.
  • Personal injury can result from dropping pins during removal.
  • Wear safety shoes to protect feet.

JIANGTU Attachments, as a breaker manufacturer for 12 years. We could provide various types of hydraulic hammer breakers and the chisel selection recommendation and installation instructions for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

JIANGTU Excavator Break adopts special carbon steel material and heat treatment processes to ensure that the wear of the piston hitting surface is minimized and the service life of the piston is maximized.

Piston production adopts precise tolerance control to ensure that the piston and cylinder can be replaced with a single product, reducing maintenance costs.

The shell of the breaker has put forward higher and higher requirements for its sealing system. The NOK brand oil seals ensure our hydraulic breaker has low (zero) leakage, low friction and wear, and long service life.

Find out which attachment & Excavator works best for you!

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Excavator Jack Hammers: The Top 5 Tool for Your Project

Excavator jack hammers are indispensable tools for heavy industries. They provide the power and efficiency needed to tackle some of the toughest jobs. This powerful attachment, also known as a hydraulic hammer, excavator breaker hammer or hydraulic breaker, is designed to break through concrete, rock, and other hard materials, making them essential for construction, demolition, and mining projects. Hammer attachments are one of the most versatile and popular tools for backhoe loaders, skid steer loaders and excavators on the job site.

In heavy machinery, excavator jack hammer attachments stand out due to their ability to transform an excavator or mini excavator into a versatile tool capable of performing a wide range of tasks. Hydraulic hammers are designed to be mounted on various carriers, including different types of excavators and machinery, ensuring compatibility and flexibility for diverse job requirements. Their significance lies in their ability to efficiently and effectively break down solid materials, a critical part of various industrial jobs. Whether constructing a new building, demolishing an old structure, or extracting rocks from a quarry or minerals from the earth, the proper excavator jack hammer can significantly enhance productivity and safety.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of hydraulic breaker for mini excavator. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

The market offers a variety of excavator jack hammers, each designed to meet specific needs, excavator type (including mini excavator, skid steer and backhoe loaders) and challenges matching hydraulic capacity. Excavator breaker and excavator breaker hammer attachments are also available as versatile options for mini excavators, suitable for applications such as concrete breaking, rock chipping, and post driving. Choosing the compatible, correct tool diameter for the energy class and operating weight of your excavators will ensure optimal performance, safety, and efficiency. Factors such as the nature of the material to be broken, the working environment, and the specific requirements of the task at hand all play a role in determining the most suitable type of jack hammer. Having the right equipment is crucial for achieving desirable results and maximizing uptime on tough job sites. Please note that the availability of certain models or types may be subject to availability, which could affect purchasing decisions or project planning.

This blog will focus on the top five types of excavator jack hammer attachments, highlighting their features, applications, and real-world examples to help you make an informed decision. By understanding each type’s distinct advantages and ideal use cases, you can select the best tool to meet your project’s demands, making short work of difficult jobs and ensuring you can support your your crew no matter the project.

Introduction to Excavator Jack Hammers

Excavator jack hammers have become essential attachments for excavators and skid steer loaders on modern construction sites. Originally introduced over sixty years ago, with the first serially manufactured rock breaker—the Krupp HM 400—making its debut in , these tools have revolutionized the way operators tackle tough materials. Today’s hydraulic breakers are engineered to efficiently break through concrete, rock, and asphalt, making them indispensable for demolition, deconstruction, primary and secondary rock breaking, trenching, foundation work, and asphalt cutting.

The evolution of hydraulic hammers has brought about a range of advanced features designed to enhance both operator comfort and equipment longevity. Modern models may include self-lubricating systems, sound and vibration damped systems, automatic rock hardness adjusting systems, energy recovery, and solid body concepts. These innovations not only improve performance and efficiency but also help reduce wear and tear on both the breaker and the carrier machine. Whether mounted on a skid steer or a full-size excavator, these hammers deliver the power and versatility needed to handle a wide range of jobs, from breaking up old pavement to excavating rock in challenging environments. As a result, hydraulic breakers remain a cornerstone of efficient, high-performance equipment fleets across the construction and demolition industries.

Underwater Breakers

Overview

Underwater breakers are specially designed to operate in submerged conditions and are compatible with various machinery, including backhoe loaders. They are modified to prevent water ingress and maintain functionality underwater, making them essential for marine construction and underwater demolition projects.

Key Features

  • Waterproof Design: These breakers are built to withstand underwater conditions, ensuring reliable performance. The waterproof construction prevents water damage, allowing the breaker to operate effectively in submerged environments.
  • Durability: They are made from materials that resist corrosion and other damage caused by prolonged exposure to water. The durable design ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh underwater conditions.

Applications

  • Marine Construction: Underwater breakers are essential for building and maintaining marine structures. They can efficiently break through submerged concrete and rock, facilitating construction and maintenance projects in aquatic environments.
  • Underwater Demolition: They demolish submerged structures or clear underwater obstacles. The breakers provide the power to remove underwater obstructions, enabling safe and efficient demolition.
  • Dredging: These breakers assist in breaking up hard materials during dredging operations. They enhance the effectiveness of dredging equipment, allowing for the removal of rigid underwater materials.

Example

In underwater pipeline maintenance, an excavator with an underwater hammer attachment breaks up rock formations obstructing the pipeline. This application highlights the breaker’s capability to perform in challenging underwater environments, ensuring the smooth operation of underwater construction and maintenance tasks.

Vibratory Breakers

Overview

Vibratory breakers utilize vibration to break materials, making them practical for breaking large volumes of concrete or asphalt. The vibration technology enhances the breaker’s efficiency, allowing it to handle extensive demolition tasks easily.

Key Features

  • Vibration Technology: These breakers use vibration to efficiently break through rigid materials, reducing the effort required. The vibration helps to loosen and fracture the material, making it easier to break.
  • High Efficiency: They are capable of handling large-scale demolition projects with ease. The efficient design allows for quick and effective breaking of large volumes of material, improving productivity.

Applications

  • Road Construction: Vibratory breakers are commonly used to break up old road surfaces during road construction projects. They facilitate the removal of asphalt and concrete, preparing the site for new construction.
  • Large-Scale Demolition: They are ideal for demolishing large structures quickly and efficiently. The powerful vibration technology makes them suitable for extensive demolition tasks, reducing the time and effort required.

Example

During a highway expansion project, an excavator with a vibratory hammer attachment breaks up the existing asphalt. This example demonstrates the breaker’s efficiency in handling extensive demolition tasks, ensuring the quick and effective preparation of the site for new construction.

Safety Precautions and Operating Guidelines

Operating a hydraulic breaker or excavator jack hammer safely is crucial for achieving maximum efficiency and protecting both the operator and the equipment. Before starting any job, it’s essential to consult the equipment manual or specification sheet to ensure the breaker and chisel are properly matched to your mini excavator or excavator’s rating. Using the right equipment for the job not only enhances performance but also reduces the risk of damage or accidents.

When attaching a breaker to your machine, always verify that your excavator or mini excavator meets the necessary operating capacity and specifications for the chosen attachment. Never use a breaker hammer in water unless it is specifically equipped with a water seal kit, as improper use can lead to equipment failure or safety hazards. Regular maintenance checks are vital—inspect the attachment for signs of wear, ensure all bolts and pins are secure, and confirm that hydraulic connections are leak-free.

Operators should also be mindful of the vibration and sound produced during operation. Prolonged exposure can impact both comfort and safety, so it’s important to use appropriate personal protective equipment and take regular breaks as needed. By following these safety precautions and operating guidelines, you can ensure your hydraulic breaker delivers reliable performance and efficiency on every job.

Hydraulic Breaker Maintenance

Keeping your hydraulic breakers in top condition is key to ensuring maximum efficiency and extending the life of your equipment. Regular maintenance not only helps maintain the powerful force needed for tough jobs but also reduces the risk of unexpected downtime. Many modern hydraulic breakers are designed with easy maintenance in mind, featuring quick change systems that allow for fast replacement of wear parts and accessories, minimizing service interruptions.

To get the best performance from your breaker, always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. This includes routine lubrication, inspecting hoses for leaks or damage, and replacing worn pins and bushings as needed. Proper storage and careful handling of both the breaker and its accessories can prevent unnecessary wear and help maintain durability. Regularly checking the hammer’s components ensures that any potential issues are caught early, keeping your equipment running efficiently and safely. By prioritizing maintenance, you’ll ensure your hydraulic breaker continues to deliver the reliable, efficient performance you need on every job site.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

When using hydraulic breakers and excavator jack hammers, it’s important to be aware of the environmental and regulatory requirements that may apply to your job site. These powerful hammers can generate significant vibration, noise, and dust, which can impact the surrounding environment and nearby communities. Operators must ensure their equipment is used efficiently and in compliance with all local regulations, especially in sensitive areas such as quarries, mines, or locations with fragile ecosystems.

In addition to managing noise and vibration, it’s crucial to take precautions to avoid damaging underground utilities, pavements, or nearby buildings. This may involve conducting site surveys, using protective barriers, or adjusting work schedules to minimize disruption. By staying informed about the regulations that govern the use of hydraulic breakers and adopting best practices for environmental stewardship, operators can ensure their work is both efficient and responsible, helping to protect the environment and maintain a positive reputation within the industry.

Innovations and Technological Advancements

The hydraulic breaker industry continues to evolve, with manufacturers introducing a range of innovations and technological advancements to meet the demands of modern construction and demolition. Today’s hydraulic breakers are built with new materials and designs that enhance durability, reduce maintenance, and improve overall efficiency. Features such as automatic rock hardness adjusting systems, energy recovery, and solid body concepts help optimize performance and extend the life of both the breaker and the carrier machine.

Advancements in hydraulic capacity matching systems ensure that breakers are perfectly suited to the excavators or skid steers they’re mounted on, maximizing power and efficiency for every job. The development of more compact and powerful breakers has also expanded the range of suitable applications, making it easier to equip smaller machines with high-performance attachments. As technology continues to advance, operators can expect even more efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly hydraulic breakers that deliver superior results while reducing the need for frequent maintenance. These innovations are helping to set new standards for performance, operator comfort, and environmental responsibility across the industry.

For more information, please visit Zero Tail mini excavator.