If a solenoid controlled, pilot operated directional control valve will not shift, what can you do to check if it shifts manually?

The manual override button on a solenoid controlled, pilot operated directional control valve is specifically designed to allow the operator to manually shift the valve without needing to activate the solenoid. This is especially useful in troubleshooting situations when the solenoid may be malfunctioning or not receiving power. By activating the manual override, you can determine if the valve itself is operational. If the valve shifts manually, it indicates that the issue lies with the solenoid or its associated electrical components rather than a mechanical failure within the valve itself.

Using an external power source, while it might seem like a potential solution, does not directly address whether the valve can shift manually without functioning solenoid power. Simply replacing the solenoid without confirming the operational status of the valve could result in unnecessary expenditure if the valve is not the problem. Waiting for pressure to equalize may also not be effective, as it does not directly help to shift the valve and could postpone a diagnosis rather than provide an immediate means for testing functionality. Thus, activating the manual override is the most straightforward and effective approach for checking the valve's shifting capability.