Many vehicles, pieces of equipment, and industrial machines use hydraulic hoses. These hoses are generally very durable and reliable, but if you work or drive long enough they will eventually break. If this happens, it is best to contact a certified professional who specializes in testing and repairing hydraulic hoses. However, there may be cases when you may need to perform quick repair work before you can reach a professional. Temporarily fixing a hydraulic hose is very much possible.
Identifying the Hose
It is always best to identify which specification the hose needing repair must meet. In most cases, the hose assembly is made to a specific length, and you will need to splice in a shorter assembly to make up for what is cut away during the repair. It is extremely dangerous to substitute an incorrect hose even in a temporary capacity. All hydraulic hoses are required to state the minimum operating and maximum burst pressures on the hose.
Removal of Damaged Area
you will need to cut out the damaged area of the hose. Even if the only issue is that the coupling on the end of the hose is leaking, you must cut off the defective end. Thoroughly clean the area around the cut end of the hose. Clear the area of any dust, dirt or other contaminants, as they could contaminate the hydraulic fluid.
Installation With Adapter
In some instances, a hydraulic adapter will be required to complete the installation of a repaired hose. Since it is not always possible to carry every type of hydraulic coupling, an acceptable solution is to have a kit with a variety of adapters. Proper tightening of the adapters and couplings is an essential part of the repair process.
Length Confirmation
Place the hose assembly into its position and confirm that the length is sufficient. An overstretched or poorly routed hose will be subject to additional pressure and fatigue.
Seal Properly
Thread the remaining end of the hose assembly onto or into the opposite port, verifying that a proper seal is created. Even a small gap or imperfection in the seal can cause problems for the hydraulic system, so double-check the tightness of the seal before proceeding.
Check for Leaks
Turn on the hydraulic system and circulate the oil or hydraulic fluid at low pressure. This will make it easier to spot potential leaks and any damaged connections.
If you suspect a hydraulic hose is leaking or otherwise damaged, act quickly and make the necessary repairs or replacements right away. Allowing a leak to go unattended and unrepaired could cause significant damage to the entire system and leave a big hole in your wallet.
