Signs You Should Replace Your Hydraulic Hoses

Hydraulic hoses should last many years, but they’re not invulnerable to aging and decay. Ideally, you would replace your hydraulic hoses before they break and fail. Keep your eye out for these warning signs of old and faulty hydraulic hoses.
Oil Leaking
If you notice oil leaking from a hose, that’s a clear sign of malfunctioning hoses, and you should immediately seek to remedy the problem. A leaking hydraulic system with little to no fluid within it is unsafe and can cost you a lot of money.
A leak can indicate that the fittings no longer work, but it may also suggest that the whole assembly requires repairs or replacement. Odds are you’ll need to contact a professional and request their expert opinion on the damage’s extent before determining what repairs or replacements are necessary.
Exposed Wiring
A sure sign that there’s a significant abrasion on the hydraulic hose and you should replace it is exposed wiring. The wires on the hose reinforce the rubber and ensure that the hydraulic hose works properly over an extended period.
Over time, environmental factors such as the temperature can begin to eat away and tear at the hose’s rubber, exposing the wiring. There’s often no repair alternative to remedy exposed wiring in a hose except replacement. You should take this step quickly, as leaving the hose with exposed wiring is dangerous.
Cracked Fittings
After a while, it’s not uncommon for fittings to crack, especially if rust takes hold in the system. Corrosion on fittings is common at the end of a hydraulic hose’s lifespan, as damage compromises the structural integrity and quality over time.
Leaving the cracked or corroded fitting unattended could lead to further corrosion in the hydraulic system. Keep a close eye on the fittings for any signs of corrosion, and consider replacing the hydraulic hoses at regular intervals.
Crushed Hoses
A crushed hose is bad news because it can lead to a significant pressure buildup and cause leaks. Hydraulic hoses are adaptable and can bend to a certain degree while maintaining their integrity and effectiveness.
However, after years of use, the hose can weaken, and the pressure can crush it. When a hose is in an awkward position, the pressure becomes dangerous. We all know the danger of pressure buildup in a hydraulic hose system, so if you notice a crushed hose, fix or replace it immediately.
We hope our guide has helped you understand the warning signs! If you’ve had the same hydraulic hoses for half a decade, these signs could start appearing more, so inspect the system right away.