When a Lift Stops Mid Air: 1998 Genie GS 1930 Hydraulic Pump Failure
When equipment fails at height, the risk is real. This 1998 Genie GS 1930 scissor lift was serviced after developing a dangerous dead spot halfway through the lift cycle. The platform would begin to rise, then stall under load, making it unsafe for operation. This type of failure is not just inconvenient, it can leave an operator stranded several stories in the air if not addressed properly.
Diagnosis
The Genie GS 1930 uses a hydraulic pump and lift ram to raise the platform, with a controlled depressurization process to bring it back down. The hydraulic pump is driven by a 24 volt electric motor powered by deep cycle batteries. During testing, the pump could not maintain sufficient hydraulic pressure under load. While the lift would raise without weight, it stalled once an adult was on the platform, confirming internal pump wear rather than an electrical fault.
The Repair
The worn hydraulic pump was replaced with a new unit and the hydraulic fluid was fully serviced. After installation, the system was tested through its full range of motion multiple times under load. The lift raised smoothly to full height and returned down without hesitation, restoring safe and reliable operation.
Why This Matters
Scissor lifts like the Genie GS 1930 extend to heights comparable to a two story building. Hydraulic or electrical failures can trap operators at full height if the system cannot depressurize correctly. For safety reasons, these machines should always be operated with a second person on the ground who can activate the emergency release valve if needed. Routine maintenance of hydraulic components and batteries is critical to prevent dangerous failures during operation.
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