need advice for repair of LA211 hydraulics

[Tractor Gal]

Today, I was able to get the loader off the BX23D. The loader is a LA211. The reason to remove the loader was to begin replacing the hydraulic hoses before they decide to "give up the ghost" and I'm caught out in the field.

All was going well UNTIL...installing the new hoses. One of the "receivers" for a hose has the threads bungled up a bit. The new hose fitting will not purchase. Once it gets turned about 3 times, it just releases as though it has never been started onto the threads.

I have a picture but it doesn't really show very well. I can see a "wave" of thread as though it has been bent somehow. There had been no leaking prior to removal and I didn't have too much trouble removing the old hose so I'm not sure if I created this or not. That part doesn't matter, I guess. Obviously, I want to get the new hose installed.

I do not have a die set but I could either get one or get the size that is required...which I don't know. It seems a die would remove some metal and I don't think that would be a good idea for this kind of pressure. I've also seen a little tool called a thread restorer but I'm not sure that will work for this application either. Looks like it should work but I don't want to proceed without getting info from those on this forum who know the best way to approach this. The whole portion of the tubing could be replaced I'm sure but that would be another little project I would like to avoid.

So, if anyone can lead me to a good solution, I would be most grateful.

Tractor Gal

 

[Russell King]

@Tractor Gal

Please back away from the loader (or tractor?) a bit and take a picture of the area you are working on.

For the new hose those threads look like they are now malformed and I would recommend you replace the fitting (hose end).

But first you must be sure the hose ends are the correct ones to fit into the existing part on the tractor. There are a LOT of different types of threads on hydraulic equipment and some are very close to each other. So are you 110% sure you have the correct hose ends attaching to the correct locations? I think there might be a mismatch between the tractor end fitting and the loader end fitting just to make it more difficult!

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Where did you get the new hoses?

And yes a picture further back to give some context is helpful!

 

[Tractor Gal]

The hoses are from Discount Hydraulics. They are correct. There are 4 hoses on the right arm. The other 3 fit perfectly. I have put one of the other hoses that fit on another spot and it goes on so it's not the hose. As I try to tighten the hose, it will start to purchase but then release. The picture I attached doesn't show the threads and the other picture from a distance doesn't show much either, but I will post it here. I may have to try to get a picture from a different angle as the threads don't show the "wave" that I think I see! Thanks for trying to help.

TG

 

[Tractor Gal]

Here is a better picture of the damaged threads from a different side. Looks like it was cross threaded.

 

[D2Cat]

If you can get to it, I would take a very small file (like a file for points) and work at dressing the dinged up threads. You may be able to correct the damage so the threads stay engaged, then it should seal when it's fully engaged.

 

[Tractor Gal]

OK. I will try to clean up that spot and see what happens.

Thanks, all, for the help. Didn't want to create a bigger problem!

TG

 

[Russell King]

You may also try a triangle file in the threads. Like shown below.

You may want to buy a fitting that is the same as the female end and use it to also make sure the threads are forming properly as you are filing. There is a soft material called Prussian Blue that machinists use to indicate the exact position that needs to be filed. You coat the threads and screw on the female part until it is hand tight. It will scrape the threads clean where contact is made so you can see where the high (tight) spot is. Then file, wipe, apply, test, repeat until the surface is removed for the threads to fit better.

Good luck and be patient, that looks like a difficult space to work in.

 

[Tractor Gal]

Good info, Russell. I do have a cap that fits on the male end of tubing. I have that screwed slightly onto the fitting to keep prevent continuous dripping. I'll get some of that Prussian Blue today...along with a file that I think will fit. I'll report back...but likely not today...several obligations will prevent much repairing.

TG

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Don't worry about the threads being damaged or perfect as that fitting does not seal on the threads, it seals on the taper face.

 

[Tractor Gal]

Good news today! I have been able to correct the thread problem and the new hose is installed. Harbor Freight had a little set of files for $3.99 and one of those did the trick. I am delighted that this did not escalate a big problem. The loader is not installed so I can't check for leaks. Thanks, NIW, for indicating that there probably won't be any. And, thanks to Russell and others who offered assistance. It's a good day in the neighborhood.

TG