Field-attachable / Reusable hydraulic fittings - Pros & Cons

loopman · Sep 16, 2013

Hi all,

New to the hydraulic field and currently repairing an old tractor and a loader/backhoe. There are a number of hoses on these that look, let us say, less than desirable. Cost, as always, is a factor, so I was wondering from those in the know whether:

Would it be more cost-effective to buy a length of hose and a bunch of these fittings and DIY ?
Do these fittings perform equally as well as shop-made (crimped) fittings in terms of longevity, pressure/flow delivery etc.
Any other considerations in choosing which way to go?

Thanks for any advice, happy to hear all stories / thoughts.

J_J · Sep 16, 2013

If you get the fittings and the correct hose, they should work as good as any crimped fitting.

This will allow you to custom fit your hoses, and be able to repair in the field.

You will probably have to have different sizes fittings and some bulk hose.

You should probably purchase your fittings and hoses from the same place.

CAUTION: Field-Attachable Hose Fittings must be used with the properly specified hose. Using field-attachable hose fittings with hose other than those they are intended may result in hose failure and possible serious injury.

Try here.

Field-Attachable (Reusable) Hose Fittings > Discount Hydraulic Hose.com

Farmerford · Sep 16, 2013

I have been using them for years and agree with everything JJ says. I have not looked at the cost difference in a long time, but I don't think the total cost is much more than ready made ones; if the cost is any greater it is more than offset by the convenience in my opinion.

There are only two disadvantages in my experience. First, the field attachable fittings extend further beyone the end of the hose, so if you are in a tight place and need for the hose to bend very close to the end fitting the longer fitting may make it more difficult; of course an angled fitting or an extra elbow usually cures that.

Second, you need an abrasive wheel to cut the hose because of the wire braid. A 3" air grinder with a 1/32" thick cutoff disk works fine, as does a 4 1/2" angle grinder; an a 7 1/4" circular saw with an abrasive blade works too, though it is unwieldy. Be sure to flush the hose with mineral spirits after cutting the ends to get the abrasive dust and metal filings out.

Rustyiron · Sep 16, 2013

As I remember, a vice & some liquid soap is needed also.

loopman · Sep 17, 2013

Thanks for the feedback, appreciate it. No problems with the grinder, cutoff disc etc., I have a pretty good tool collection, although more could never hurt ;-)

Seeing I am looking at more from a convenience view, and for the sense of accomplishment from doing the job yourself, based on all your advice I think I will go the re-usable fittings. I was just concerned they may have been more of an 'emergency fix' type of thing and would not last as long as proper fittings.

Thanks again, I will try to post some pictures in case anyone else is starting out and needs info like I did.

kennyd · Sep 17, 2013

Here is a little tutorial I did on them: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/hydraulics/158654-re-usable-hydraulic-hose-fitting.html

loopman · Sep 20, 2013

Thanks Kennyd, a good tutorial there.

Have my Pajero off the road at moment with water pump and timing belt to be replaced so will be busy for a few days before I can get back to the tractor, but looking forward to it now that I know what to expect. Thanks everyone.

stuckmotor · Sep 20, 2013

Loopman,
Thanks for asking the question. I've been curious about those fittings for years.

loopman · Sep 20, 2013

I came here to learn, and now you guys are thanking me

loopman · Oct 8, 2013

Just a quick follow-up, had a chat to the local hydraulic shop here, apparently they supply the field fittings but are "phasing them out". This is due to litigation reasons - if they manufacture a crimped hose they guarantee it fit for purpose, but have no control over a DIY hose. Anyway, still available in the short term so I might have to stock up !