Leaking quick connect

[dog13]

Hi Everyone,
The quick connect for my grapple has developed a leak. I've done a search, but the leak threads i've found were about the fitting leaking when in use. Mine leaks only when there is nothing connected to the QC, if i'm connected life is good and no leaks. The leak seems to be from the valve itself, almost as though the ball is not sealing completely. Not sure if this is a sign of a bad O ring, bad valve, or something else? Thought i'd check with the collective wisdom of the forum before i start throwing parts at it.

Thanks!
Al

 

[countrybumpkin]

Male or female coupler leaking?

 

[countrybumpkin]

If you have the standard quick connects there bad about seeping fluid due the the steel on steel sealing area. The poppet style seals better due to the use of Orings to seal instead of steel on steel. If you have the standard fittings I’d switch over to the poppet style. If you already have poppet type connectors then you may have a damaged o ring.

 

[dog13]

The female is leaking, and they are the standard quick connects. I did not realize they were just steel-steel on the mating surfaces, certainly explains why they'd be inclined to leak.
I was thinking if i switch out the couplers of going with the flat face skid steer style. Any feel for whether those are better than the poppet style?
I only have one hydraulic attachment (so far) so thinking if i was going to change type this would be the time to do it...
Thanks!
Al

 

[ddbackhoe]

You may want to look through these sites before deciding.
A brief overview, Fundamentals of quick-acting couplings | Hydraulics & Pneumatics

Manufacturer info
Hydraulic Coupling Manufacturers | Quick Connect & Disconnect Hydraulic Fittings & Connectors| SafeWay
Quick Disconnect Fittings Hydraulic Couplings & Connectors Eaton
Hydraulic Quick Coupler Solutions for Rigorous Applications | Stucchi USA

 

[CincyFlyer]

There is a light spring that holds the ball against the sealing surface on the ag-type couplers. I have found that they don't leak if they are out in the sun and thus under more pressure, otherwise, they weep a little bit. All of them, at one time or another. Not a huge deal, a few drops, just a little messy.