Milwaukee

262-781-4970

Madison

608-221-8300

Green Bay

920-343-6496

Hydraulic Hoses

Best Practices for Hydraulic Hoses

Keep your hose operating correctly

Follow these maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance and reduce risks, labor costs, and downtime

Pre-Use Inspection — To be completed before each use
  • Check hydraulic hoses for signs of deterioration — Look for indications of wear, such as cracking, blisters, bubbles and don't ignore leakage. Catching signals early helps avoid hose failures causing downtime later on.
  • When installing a hose, always install with new seals on fittings and adapters – seals wear down, harden and age with regular use.
  • Time frame for replacement varies — There is no set time to replace hydraulic hoses. Rate of deterioration depends on a variety of factors including usage, pressure, and the type of hydraulic fluid.
  • Semi-annual maintenance checks — At a minimum, hydraulic hoses should be thoroughly inspected by a certified technician every six months.
Storage and Safety Tips
  • Keep fittings clean — Avoid getting sand, dirt or other substances on your fittings, and clean before each connection
  • Use caps and plugs when not in use — Use of caps or plugs on your hydraulic hoses keeps them clean and saves time later when you have to re-attach them
  • Store in the shade — Keep hoses stored out of direct sunlight, the sun accelerates deterioration.
  • Detach and connect carefully — A pressure relief tool is the best implement to remove a pressure-locked hose. High pressures can result when the oil expands in the hose, making connection more difficult. Do not hit hoses on the floor to release pressure.
  • Always wear safety goggles when working with hydraulic hoses
What if a hose fails?

Usually hoses fail due to misapplication, abrasion/poor routing, deterioration or improper maintenance. If the hose fails, be extremely careful.

  • Shut down the machine immediately to avoid additional damage
  • Allow machine to release pressure — Pressure is not released immediately, and machines need time to release pressure to a level suitable for a proper inspection
  • Do not search for the leak using your hands — Hydraulic fluids can penetrate the skin and pose a significant risk to your health. Also, exposed wire reinforcement braiding can cut your skin.
  • Carefully replace the hose and test for proper operation

Milwaukee

Phone 262-781-4970
Toll Free 800-236-4970
Email info@kelbebros.com

12770 West Silver Spring Drive
Butler, Wisconsin 53007
Get Directions

Hours Monday – Friday
7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Madison

Phone 608-221-8300
Toll Free 888-221-8300
Email info@kelbebros.com

4621 Dutch Mill Road
Madison, Wisconsin 53716
Get Directions

Hours Monday – Friday
7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Green Bay

Phone 920-343-6496
Toll Free 855-414-7895
Email info@kelbebros.com

3101 French Road
De Pere, Wisconsin 54115
Get Directions

Hours Monday – Friday
7:00 am – 5:00 pm