Broderson RT-400-A, Operation And Maintenance Manual

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HYDRAULIC SEALS
W A R N I N G
Do not check for hydraulic leaks with hands. If a mist of hydraulic oil is noticed around a
line or component, use cardboard or other material to check for location of leak. High
pressure fluid leaking from a small hole, can be almost invisible, yet have enough force
to penetrate the skin. If injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor at once. Serious reaction
or infection can occur.
All hydraulic fittings and hose connections should be kept tight to prevent loss of fluid from the
system and unnecessary dripping from the machine. Some hydraulic fittings on the RT-400
crane use o-ring seals, and if tightening the fitting fails to stop the leak, the o-ring should be re-
placed.
Notes:
1. When installing an o-ring fitting with an adjustable nut and washer, be sure to back off the
nut, washer, and o-ring as far as possible before threading the fitting into the port. Then turn
the fitting into the port as far as possible with fingers and turn it backward until it is oriented
properly. Torque the nut with a wrench, while holding the fitting with another wrench.
2. Lubricate all seals before assembling.
3. Take care not to over tighten pipe threads.
4. Do not use Teflon tape to seal pipe treads. Loctite-type (anaerobic) sealant is preferred.
Leaks in component parts, such as pumps, valves and motors, that cannot be stopped by tight-
ening bolts, can usually be stopped by replacing the seals in the component. Seal and packing
replacement is the only maintenance which owners should attempt on component parts, unless
they have a well-equipped shop with mechanics trained in hydraulic component overhaul.
Leakage in the pump suction line may not cause oil to appear externally, but may allow air to
enter the line during operation. The air entrained in the oil will cause pumps to be noisy, and if
allowed to continue, can damage the pump. If a pump becomes noisy, immediately check the
fluid level in the reservoir and be sure all suction fittings are tight. If noise continues, squirt hy-
draulic fluid on the suction connections. Listen for a change in the noise and watch for oil being
sucked into a small opening in the connection. When the reservoir is full and all suction connec-
tions are tight, most pump noises will disappear. If they do not, a worn or faulty pump is indicat-
ed. On a routine basis, all hoses should be checked for wear, deterioration, and physical dam-
age. Defective hoses should be replaced for maximum economy for the user.