How to Install a Hydraulic Hose

The use of hydraulic systems in much of today's equipment could mean that at some point you will have to deal with a broken hydraulic hose. It's usually much easier to remove the hose from the equipment and replace it on site than to load and transport a machine with a leaking hydraulic hose. Preventative maintenance is the best option, so monitoring the condition of the hoses is always a good idea. Changing any hoses that are worn or frayed into the steel braid before you take the machine to the job could save you from a major problem.

Things You'll Need

• Open end wrenches
• Drain pan

Instructions

1. Relieve all hydraulic pressure in the system before starting to replace a hose. Do this by moving the control levers through their full range with the motor off. On many machines you will need to have the ignition key on or move the lock out lever to the unlocked position to allow any pressure to be released.

2. 

   Place a drain pan under the fitting you will loosen first. Check the ends of the hoses to see if only one end has a swivel fitting and if it does that should be where you start. If both ends have swivel fittings start at the lowest end of the hose.

3. 

   Place an open end wrench on each side of the fitting. While holding one wrench, turn the other wrench counterclockwise to loosen the fitting. The wrench to turn is the one on the swivel fitting, or if no swivel, the hose end.

4. Check for the presence of an o-ring on the fitting. If there is one replace it with a new o-ring before installing the hose. Make sure your replacement hose has the same type of end and has the same, or higher, pressure rating as the original hose.

5. Be certain the fitting is clean, both inside and out, and start the threads together. Once you are certain that the fitting is going on straight you can tighten the fitting securely. Always start with the end that doesn't have a swivel fitting on hoses that have only one.

6. Check the level of the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir, and when satisfied that the system is filled to the proper level, start the engine and check for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Hydraulic systems generate a lot of pressure; do not hold your hands or fingers over a fitting to check for leaks. A jet of fluid can be forced through a small opening with enough force to penetrate your skin.