Remove the protective closures from hydraulic lines, hose, or hose assemblies. When possible, install hose or hose assemblies so that identification markings are visible. Install hose or hose assemblies without twisting, chafing, or overbending (fig. 5-20). Observe bend radius in table 5-8. Greater bend-radius is preferred where possible. Install hose or hose assemblies with a slight bow or slack to compensate for contraction pressure on the line (fig. 5-21).

Figure 5-21.Hose slack.


Figure 5-22.Hose clamp mounting.

When connecting hose or hose assemblies to an engine or an engine-mounted accessory, provide 1 1/2 inches of slack or a suitable bend between the last point of support and the engine or accessory attachment. Fingertighten swivel connector nuts to avoid stripping threaded areas of fittings. Before applying final torque to end fittings, make sure hose

Figure 5-23.Clamp installation.

assemblies are properly aligned and free of twists and kinks. Complete tightening by using torque values specified in applicable MIM. Table 5-9 is a guide for installation torque of flared and flareless fittings. Hold fitting stationary with one wrench, and use torque wrench to tightens wivel nut. When applying final torque, hold hose manually to prevent rotation and scoring of the fittings sealing surface. Lockwire the swivel nut (if applicable). Support flexible hose or hose assemblies by routing and clamping hose or hose assembly securely to avoid abrasion and kinking where flexing occurs (fig. 5-22).

Overtightening clamps will squeeze or deform hose. Cushion-type clamps should be used to prevent hose chafing. See figure 5-23.

Make sure support clamps do not restrict hose travel or subject hose or hose assembly to tension, torsion, compression, or sheer-stress during flexing cycles. Where flexing is required in an installation, bend the hose in the same plane of movement to avoid twisting. Ensure that the minimum bend radius is greater by a factor of "N" than the minimum bend radius for a nonflexing hose for hose assemblies required to flex at a bend (fig. 5-24).

Figure 5-24."N" factor for flexing bends.