5 tips to stop leaks in the hydraulic system

HOLLY, Mich., Sept. 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A leaky hydraulic system reduces productivity, damages equipment and can lead to machine failure. While some hydraulic system leaks are relatively easy to locate and repair – such as those caused by a burst hose – others are more difficult to find. The leak-stopping experts at Bar's Leaks offer these five tips for sealing and preventing leaks in virtually any hydraulic system, including in construction, agriculture, manufacturing, forestry, mining, vehicle repair, waste management and other industrial facilities.

1. Carry out regular visual inspections. The best way to detect and correct problems early is to regularly inspect the hydraulic system for signs of wear, corrosion, damage and leaks.
2. Analyze and replace hydraulic oil as needed. Nothing lasts forever, and that includes hydraulic fluids. Change the fluid according to the equipment manufacturer's recommendations. Regular oil analysis will also indicate when the fluid should be changed. Also change the fluid if it has become too hot (often indicated by a change in color and smell), is contaminated, or has worn out.
3. Check the fluid condition. Fluctuating temperatures can stress hydraulic systems. Check fluid viscosity and adjust seasonally to ensure continued smooth performance. Depending on where the equipment is used, temperature control devices such as coolers, heaters and/or insulation may be required.
4. Change the filters. Keep harmful contaminants out of the system by following the manufacturer's recommendations for replacing or cleaning breathers, strainers and filters.
5. Treat the system with a hydraulic leak stop and conditioner. Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal (part number H60) not only seals hydraulic system leaks, but also reduces friction and wear, extends hydraulic fluid and system life, and renews seals and O-rings. Rust and oxidation inhibitors reduce the buildup of sludge, varnish and acids and keep the entire system clean for long-term performance.

“We've used over 75 years of experience and extensive research to develop the best professional hydraulic leak stopper and conditioner on the market,” says Clay Parks, Vice President of Development at Bar's Leaks. “Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal fixes stubborn, hard-to-find hydraulic fluid leaks while simultaneously cleaning and treating the system so it runs cooler and lasts longer, keeps seals soft and pliable, and prevents future leaks.”

Hydraulic Seal contains a high quality zinc based additive package and viscosity modifiers that restore thermal stability in the hydraulic system. This additive package has been tested and proven to deliver excellent results in OEM and aftermarket Group I, II and III hydraulic oils and synthetic fluids. Seal care products restore and protect hard, brittle, shrunken and worn seals, O-rings and sealing rings to reduce leakage during operation.

Chemical polymers work where other leak stops cannot seal operational leaks such as small grooves and depressions in the shafts. The polymers in Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal form a film between the seal and the shaft to prevent leaks. These shear stable polymer additives and viscosity modifiers also help keep worn systems lubricated during operation as well as during extended downtimes.

Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal is a multi-grade, multi-viscosity formula approved for use in a wide range of climates with multiple hydraulic oil grades including ISO22, ISO32, ISO46, ISO68, ISO100 and others. The special concentrated formula does not thicken the hydraulic fluid, so the current oil maintains its quality and performance is optimized in all weather conditions. It maintains fluid viscosity even at higher temperatures to stabilize hydraulic pressure. The pour point depressant is designed to allow proper fluid flow in all temperature ranges.

Hydraulic Seal can be used in low pressure and high pressure hydraulic systems in industrial and mobile applications including dump trucks, earthmoving equipment and excavators, loaders, forklifts, refuse collection, tractors, snow plows and hydraulic lifts, hoists and aerial platforms. It provides excellent rust and corrosion protection as well as anti-foam protection. Hydraulic Seal repairs pump seals, control valve seals, actuators, tappets, cylinders, O-ring hose connections, hydrostatic transmissions and other parts of hydraulic systems.

The product is sold exclusively at all Advance Auto Parts and CARQUEST stores and select online partners. It is available in 32 oz., 1 gallon, 5 gallon and 55 gallon sizes. For a limited time, Advance Auto Parts and CARQUEST are offering special discounts of $2 off the 32 oz. bottle, $5 off the 1 gallon jug and $10 off a 5 gallon bucket. Check in stores for details.

For normal use, add one ounce of Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal per quart of hydraulic fluid. For severely worn systems, use up to 2 ounces per quart of fluid capacity. For preventive maintenance, use 1/2 ounce per quart of fluid capacity.

Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal works immediately after installation. Most leaks are sealed within a few hours of application and use. Some leaks may take up to a few days to disappear.

For more information on the Bar's Leaks Hydraulic Seal, visit barsleaks.com/product/hydraulic-seal-h60/.

Bar's Leaks is America's best-known brand of leak stoppers. All Bar's Leaks products are made in the USA. Bar's Leaks is based in Holly, Michigan and is ISO 9001 certified.

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