BX hydraulic lines leak after removing FEL

[buckeyepost]

When I drop my FEL off of my BX2670 the 4 quick disconnect lines seem to leak a good amount each time I disconnect them to the point where I just keep an oil pan on the floor so it doesn't ruin my concrete. I am new to FEL's but go through the procedure as instructed from the dealer, making sure I shut the tractor off and move the handle around to relieve all of the pressure from the lines before disconnecting. So, is this normal behavior or is there something I should be doing differently? I would just think over time I'll have to add some hydraulic fluid to compensate for the loss.

 

[85Hokie]

"leak a good amount"

more than a thimble full? More than shot glass? Or just enough to stain the floor?

Does it stop leaking? or continue?

 

[CountryBumkin]

There's a spring loaded check valve inside the Quick Disconnect coupler (one for each, the male and female connector). If that spring is broken or weak it won't shut off the oil flow completely when you disconnect the hoses. Could also be that there is some dirt/debris stuck in there holding the check valve partially off its seat.

 

[buckeyepost]

I would say it's about 1/4 cup or so and it will eventually stop but will slowly leak for a few hours or so until the hanging hoses dangle. It definetely doesn't seem right. I'll check and see if the check valve is closing. This last time I unhooked it was the worst. Soaked my work glove as I unhooked it from the tractor.

 

[CountryBumkin]

Before you disconnect the FEL hoses from the tracotr, shut-off the tractor then wiggle the FEL joystick around in all directions to relive the pressure. If your doing that and still getting soaked, I think it is time for new connectors (or a wet suit).

 

[buckeyepost]

Yep, I'm following that procedure. Really, new connectors already? It's a year old with under 200 hrs on it. Is it safe to operate like this? I'm trailering it to a friends tomorrow to do some work.

 

[CountryBumkin]

Yep, I'm following that procedure. Really, new connectors already? It's a year old with under 200 hrs on it. Is it safe to operate like this? I'm trailering it to a friends tomorrow to do some work.

You can try to manually depress the check valve. Use a flat tipped punch or wooden dowel or such. Can you open the check valve by hand? On my BX, I can not depress/open the check valve by hand alone (and mine doesn't leak). But I only have 25 hours on it so far.