bought used grapple, drain hyd fluid?

[ugabulldog]

I bought a like new grapple, guy only used once for cleaning up limbs and tree around his house. It has the flat face couplers I need already. He used it with a skid steer, not sure if they use different hyd fluid than tractors. My question is should I worry about the little bit of fluid in grapple 1/4" hoses, take couplers loose and drain. Or just hook up to tractor and go? I am thinking the little bit of fluid in lines would not matter and just go with it!

 

[oosik]

I think your thinking is correct. There will not be that much hydraulic fluid in the hoses and piston(s) - - when compared to what is already in your tractor. You will probably get first hand knowledge when you hook it up to your tractor. Chances are pretty good that it will not be a "drip proof" first connection and you can see what it looks like then.

 

[Redlands Okie]

When I have used any of my attachments on rental equipment it concerns me a bit. I always hook up the supply side to my tractor and crack the fitting on the return side. Activate a bit and flush the line out. Tighten up the fitting, hook it up to the tractor and done deal. Might be a bit excessive care but its quick and cheap and safe.

 

[Rustyiron]

Keep in mind the cylinders are full also if your that worried about it.

 

[Bigfoot62]

Worry about it? No.

But, I would check the fluid that's in there. If it's not clear, then change it. Probably wouldn't take much, and if that gives you peace of mind, go for it.