Inspection of Hoses and Fittings for Fuel Leaks
Inspection
of Hoses and Fittings for Fuel Leaks - Ops - DD5
A pre-start inspection of hoses and fuel lines is recommended. Make a visual check for fuel leaks at all engine-mounted fuel lines and connections, and at the fuel tank suction and return lines. Since fuel tanks are susceptible to road hazards, leaks in this area may best be detected by checking for an accumulation of fuel under the tank.
Warning: HOT OIL
To avoid injury from hot oil, do not operate the engine with the rocker cover(s) removed.
Note: Leaks are not
only detrimental to machine operation, but they can also result in
added expense caused by the need to replace lost fluids
Inspection of Hoses and Fittings
Check hoses daily as part of the pre-start inspection.
- Examine hoses for leaks, and check all fittings, clamps and ties carefully.
- Make sure hoses are not resting on or touching shafts, couplings, heated surfaces including exhaust manifolds, sharp edges, or other obvious hazardous areas.
- Since all machinery vibrates and moves to a certain extent, clamps and ties can fatigue with age. To ensure continued proper support, inspect fasteners frequently and tighten or replace them as necessary.
- If fittings have loosened or cracked, or if hoses have ruptured or worn through, take corrective action immediately.
Inspection of Hoses with Extended Service Life
A hose has a finite service life. With this in mind, inspect hoses as follows:
Note: Fire-resistant fuel and lubricating
oil hose assemblies do not require automatic replacement after five
years of service or at major overhaul, but should be inspected carefully
before being put back into service.
- Thoroughly inspect all hoses at least every 500 operating hours (1,000 hours for fire-resistant fuel and lubricating oil hoses) and/or annually. Look for cover damage and/or indications of twisted, worn, crimped, brittle, cracked or leaking lines. Hoses with their outer cover worn through or with damaged metal reinforcements should be considered unfit for further service.
- Replace all hoses in and out of machinery during major overhaul and/or after a maximum of five (5) years of service.
Note: