The next aspect of routine maintenance is checking the hoses, lines, fittings and couplers. Inspect these components to determine if they have been damaged and ensure they are in good condition and in the right location.

· Inspect hoses and lines. Metal lines may be dented from falling tools, contact with other equipment or myriad other reasons. Inspect lines for cracking, cuts or dents that restrict flow or cause pressure leaks. Hoses can be damaged in the same manner, as well as from overheating, extended wear and defective manufacturing. Look for crimped or collapsed hoses that could be restricting flow. The hose could be internally damaged, causing pieces of the hose to enter the hydraulic system and contaminate it.

· Check the hose routing. Sometimes brackets break and hoses and lines end up where they are not supposed to be. They can be pinched, kinked, overstretched or chafed.

· Inspect hoses at flex points. Operate the hydraulic system and observe the flex point for kinking or stretching.

· Check all fittings on hoses to make sure they are snug. If you notice leakage at a fitting, tighten it. Be careful to not overtighten or thread damage will result.

· Check couplings. Always keep these points clean, they are a major source of contamination. Make sure that caps are in place when the couplings are not used and replace any caps that do not fit tightly. Before connecting any lines, thoroughly clean each coupling.

· Keep the hoses clean by washing machinery on a regular basis. This will also help to reduce hydraulic fluid temperatures.

If a hose or line is damaged, make sure that any replacements are of the same length, size and wall thickness. Refer to the service manual for specifications.