All hydraulic systems use pressure to move components, including automotive brake systems. Pump types vary, so it can be difficult to identify and locate hydraulic pumps if you are unfamiliar with a particular hydraulic system or unfamiliar with hydraulics, in general. But there are a few basic similarities between all hydraulic pumps.


Instructions

Study the schematic for the hydraulic system. This might help you locate the pump in relation to other components. A circle with a small triangle near its circumference represents a hydraulic pump. The triangle should point in the direction that fluid flows from the pump.

Read maintenance manuals for the hydraulic system. Look for instructions on replacing the hydraulic pump. The manual should identify the pump's exact location.

Look at the components in the hydraulic system. The pump might be compact compared to other major components and will be shaped differently from most of them. The pump won't be completely cylindrical and won't have actuating parts connected directly to it. It will have a hydraulic supply line and a hydraulic pressure line.

Listen for the sound of the operating hydraulic pump to locate it. This is usually only applicable for electrically operated pumps. Other pumps might only operate in conjunction with other noisy components, such as engine-driven aircraft pumps.