Hydraulic hoses are used on many different kinds of equipment but are very common on the heavy equipment used in the construction industry. The hydraulic hoses are strong and designed to withstand a lot of pressure. However, It is essential to inspect them regularly so that they can be replaced before a problem begins.

Hose Inspections

When you inspect your hydraulic hoses, you need to look closely at the hose body and check it for any wear, including cuts or nicks in the rubber jacket. If you find a hose with a cut or crack in it that is deep enough to see the fabric weave inside the hose, replace the hose immediately. 

Any oil on the hoses needs to be investigated as a potential leak in the hydraulic hoses. If the hoses are weeping oil, they need replacing because the rubber has broken down enough to allow the oil to penetrate it. This means the high pressure in the hose could cause a rupture when you are using the equipment. 

During the inspection process, it is critical that you check the fittings and the ends on the hoses from leaks as well. Hydraulic hoses have ends that are pressed on, and over time, the ends can loosen up, and oil will seep out around them. Anytime oil is coming out of the system, air is likely to be getting in, and air in your hydraulic system will cause it to function erratically. 

Replacing Hydraulic Hoses

If you find damaged hydraulic hoses that need replacing, you can often buy replacement hoses for your equipment from the equipment dealer that sells the brand of equipment you are using. If there is no dealer near you, you may have a machine shop in the area that can make a new line for you. Alternatively, if there is an auto parts store that handles heavy equipment in your area, they may be able to get the hoses as well. 

If you are going to order new hydraulic hoses, part numbers printed on the hose casing will tell the dealer which hose you need. If you need to have new hoses made at a local hydraulic machine shop, take the old hose with you so that the shop can match the length, diameter, and fittings that are on the old hose.

If the hose needs to be made from scratch, those details from the old hose make it much easier for the hydraulic shop to recreate them. It is critical that all the dimensions are the same and that the material used will stand up to the pressures in your hydraulic system. For more information, contact a company like TopDog Heavy Equipment Parts.