Hydraulic Hoses
The hydraulic hoses are subject to extreme conditions such as pressure differentials
during operation and exposure to weather, sun, chemicals, and very warm storage
conditions, in addition to mishandling during operation and maintenance. These
conditions can cause damage to the hose or deterioration of the hose material. Some
hoses are more susceptible to these conditions than others. Examine all the hydraulic
hoses of the machine frequently and repair or replace them as necessary. Hoses that
move during normal machine operation should be replaced every two years. Check
hydraulic hoses for the following signs of deterioration or damage:
• A hose that is hard, cracked, cut, abraded, charred, leaking, or otherwise
damaged.
• A hose that is kinked, crushed, flattened, or twisted.
• A hose cover that is blistered, soft, degraded, or loose.
• Hose fittings that are cracked, damaged, or badly corroded.
WARNING
Before disconnecting or performing any work on the hydraulic system, relieve
the pressure from the system; Relieving Pressure from the Hydraulic System,
page 5–2.
• Keep your body and hands away from pin-hole leaks or nozzles that eject
hydraulic fluid under high pressure.
• Do not use your hands to search for leaks; use a piece of paper or
cardboard.
• Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure can have sufficient force to
penetrate the skin causing serious injury.
• If hydraulic fluid is injected into your skin, the fluid damage to your body
must be surgically removed within a few hours by a doctor familiar with this
form of injury or gangrene may result.
When you replace a hydraulic hose, ensure that the hose is straight (not twisted)
before you tighten the fittings. Observe the imprint (layline) on the hose to do this.
Using two wrenches, hold the hose straight with one wrench and tighten the hose
swivel nut onto the fitting with the other wrench; refer to Installing the Hydraulic Hoses
and Tubes (O-Ring Face Seal), page 5–10.
Note: If the hose has an elbow at one end, tighten the swivel nut on the elbow end
before you tighten the nut on the straight end of the hose.
4520P Page 5–9 Hydraulic System: Hydraulic Hoses
09.40003Rev 00