Built My Test Gauge for Hydralics (Finally)

[Short Game]

I got what I think is a German gauge, measuring in Bars, at a used tool place for $2. I spent a bit more for the quick connects and the 8 brass fittings, something like $33. But I finally have one. The gauge had a thread on it that matched nothing at the industrial supply, but it was close to 1/4" pipe, if just slightly loose. I used JB Weld for pipe dope on that connection, and converted it to 1/4" pipe.

I made marks on the lens at the 500 and 1000 pound points (about 3600 pounds, full scale). I made a max pressure mark for each of my tractors on the rim.

I checked the power beyond my loader control (with its screaming relief valve) which supplies my remotes, and found the pressure to be about 450 pounds below the rated system pressure. I guess I will be making that adjustment soon. I hope the obnoxious squeal goes away.

 

[J_J]

The squealing is telling you that the operation you are using is developing the pressure you set.

Is the squealing coming from the loader valve or the 3pt?

 

[Short Game]

I just got that tractor with the squeal. It sounds like it's coming from the loader valve.

 

[Leejohn]

(The gauge had a thread on it that matched nothing at the industrial supply, but it was close to 1/4" pipe, if just slightly loose. I used JB Weld for pipe dope on that connection, and converted it to 1/4" pipe.)


I wouldn't be near it when testing your system at 2500 to 3000psi.

 

[PsRumors]

(The gauge had a thread on it that matched nothing at the industrial supply, but it was close to 1/4" pipe, if just slightly loose. I used JB Weld for pipe dope on that connection, and converted it to 1/4" pipe.)


I wouldn't be near it when testing your system at 2500 to 3000psi.

I'd be scared it will blow the gauge out of the fitting.

And is that brass T rated for more than 3000 psi?

 

[Short Game]

The gauge's thread was only a little loose at the start of the female pipe threads, which, of course, are tapered. The thread pitch was only a tiny fraction off in six or seven threads. In other words, almost a match. They mated quite well, actually. I probably got a single thread to cross by tightening it home into the taper. With the JB Weld filling whatever small gaps, I will figure it for a safe joint.

With the gauge's fitting and close nipples completely buried into the tee, the center of the flats will be the weakest point. I think I will risk it. Not a lot of square inches there to spread out the 2400 psi that is the max I ever expect to measure.

I have known sea lines to fail while exceeding test depth in an out of control dive, but then, that was old gear in an old boat. We might cob together stuff and get away with it sometimes. Like going on submarines, I am a volunteer. Now where's my hazardous duty pay?

Anyway, thank you for any concern for my safety. But what can you do with a guy who rode diesel subs and then went on to motorcycles? Risky business.

 

[jaotguy]

1 BAR = about 15 PSI ( 14.7 )

 

[Short Game]

I tested the pressure at my aftermarket remotes that are supplied from the loader's power beyond. I found the pressure nearly 500 pounds too low. I adjusted the relief and everything works better and the squeal is completely gone.