Well, I'll probably take some heat for this, but I disagree with "not cycling" the hydraulics, or anything else for that matter. Granted, it only has to be once in a while, but it needs to be done occasionally. What happens is that eventually, with no use, the oil film on the cylinder surface will run off. Also, the seals and rings can dry out. Yes, I know this takes a while, but as with any piece of equipment, it is better to exercise it occasionally, just to keep things "freed up" and "lubed up." I'm not saying every week, but maybe once every couple of months or so. On the farm and in industry, we always "exercise" equipment every so often, just to make sure everything is OK. There's an old adage....."use it or lose it"...!
The absolute worst thing you can do with a piece of equipment, is to just let it set for extended periods.
