Hoses for Koehring 6620 LC: Maintenance and Replacement Tips

[MikePhua]

The Koehring 6620 LC is a robust and powerful excavator, known for its efficiency and versatility in heavy-duty applications. However, like any piece of machinery, it can experience wear and tear, particularly in its hydraulic system. One common issue faced by operators is damage or wear to the hydraulic hoses, which are crucial for transmitting hydraulic fluid throughout the system. In this article, we'll discuss the importance of hydraulic hoses for the Koehring 6620 LC, the types of hoses you might encounter, maintenance tips, and solutions to common hose-related issues.
The Role of Hydraulic Hoses in the Koehring 6620 LC
Hydraulic hoses play a vital role in any hydraulic-powered machine, especially in excavators like the Koehring 6620 LC. These hoses are responsible for carrying hydraulic fluid to and from various components of the machine, such as the boom, arm, and bucket. The hydraulic system enables these components to move smoothly and with great force, allowing the machine to lift, dig, and perform other tasks.
The Koehring 6620 LC, which is typically used in heavy-duty excavation, demolition, and material handling, relies on its hydraulic system to deliver the power needed for these demanding tasks. Therefore, the integrity of its hydraulic hoses is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of the machine.
Common Types of Hydraulic Hoses

1. High-Pressure Hoses:
   These hoses are designed to handle high-pressure hydraulic fluid flow. They are generally thicker and have reinforced layers to withstand extreme pressure levels.
   
2. Return Hoses:
   Return hoses carry hydraulic fluid from the actuator or cylinder back to the tank. These hoses operate under lower pressure compared to high-pressure hoses but are still critical for the system's efficiency.
   
3. Drainage Hoses:
   Drainage hoses are used to remove any excess fluid or waste that might accumulate in the hydraulic system.
   
4. Suction Hoses:
   These hoses are designed to carry hydraulic fluid from the tank to the pump. They need to be flexible to accommodate fluid movement while maintaining suction integrity.
   

Maintenance Tips for Hydraulic Hoses
To maintain the performance of your Koehring 6620 LC excavator, keeping the hydraulic hoses in good condition is essential. Here are some key maintenance tips to help ensure their longevity:

1. Regular Inspection:
   It's crucial to regularly inspect the hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or abrasions. Even small issues can lead to bigger problems down the road. Check for bulging or swelling, which indicates internal damage, and look for any visible cuts, fraying, or leaks along the length of the hoses.
   
2. Keep Hoses Clean:
   Hydraulic fluid can attract dirt and debris, which can cause abrasions or blockages in the system. Keep the hoses clean and free from foreign objects. Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the outside of the hoses regularly.
   
3. Check Hose Fittings:
   The fittings on the hydraulic hoses are just as important as the hoses themselves. Check for leaks or signs of loosening at the connection points. Tighten or replace fittings as necessary to avoid fluid loss and ensure optimal pressure retention.
   
4. Monitor Fluid Levels:
   Low hydraulic fluid levels can cause excessive wear on the hoses, as the system will have to work harder to move the fluid. Make sure to maintain the correct fluid levels as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
   
5. Temperature Control:
   Excessive heat can degrade hydraulic hoses. Avoid running the excavator in conditions where it overheats. High temperatures can cause hoses to become brittle or weak over time.
   
6. Proper Routing:
   Ensure that the hydraulic hoses are properly routed within the machine. Hoses that are routed too tightly or in a way that causes them to rub against other components can wear out faster. Consider the hose length and bends when installing or replacing hoses to prevent unnecessary strain.
   

Common Hydraulic Hose Issues in the Koehring 6620 LC
Despite proper maintenance, hydraulic hoses are subject to wear and tear due to constant use in demanding environments. Some of the most common issues with hydraulic hoses in the Koehring 6620 LC include:

1. Hydraulic Leaks:
   One of the most common problems with hydraulic hoses is leaks. Over time, hoses can develop small cracks, tears, or holes, which lead to a loss of hydraulic fluid. These leaks can result in a drop in hydraulic pressure, affecting the machine’s performance.
   
2. Abrasion and Friction:
   When hoses rub against other parts of the excavator, they can wear down due to friction. This can lead to weakening of the hose material, increasing the likelihood of a rupture or leak.
   
3. Kinking or Bending:
   Excessive bending or kinking of hoses can cause internal damage that restricts the flow of hydraulic fluid. This may lead to inefficient operation and increased wear on the system.
   
4. Contamination:
   If the hydraulic fluid becomes contaminated, it can cause damage to the hoses and the entire hydraulic system. Contaminants such as dirt, water, or metal shavings can wear down hoses over time and affect the fluid flow.
   

Replacing Hydraulic Hoses on the Koehring 6620 LC
When hydraulic hoses become damaged beyond repair, replacing them is necessary to maintain the functionality of the Koehring 6620 LC. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

1. Identify the Problem Area:
   The first step in replacing a hydraulic hose is to identify the damaged hose. Check the machine’s hydraulic system for any signs of leaks, wear, or pressure loss.
   
2. Choose the Right Hose:
   Ensure that the replacement hose is compatible with the Koehring 6620 LC’s hydraulic system. The hose’s pressure rating, size, and material must meet the specifications outlined by the manufacturer.
   
3. Discharge the Hydraulic System:
   Before removing the damaged hose, safely discharge the hydraulic system. This will help prevent any fluid from spilling and reduce the risk of injury.
   
4. Remove the Old Hose:
   Use appropriate tools to remove the damaged hose, taking care not to damage surrounding components. Carefully disconnect the hose from its fittings.
   
5. Install the New Hose:
   Install the new hose by connecting it to the same fittings. Make sure it is routed properly to avoid any unnecessary bending or stress.
   
6. Test the System:
   Once the new hose is installed, test the hydraulic system to ensure there are no leaks and that the machine is functioning properly.
   

Conclusion
Maintaining the hydraulic hoses of your Koehring 6620 LC excavator is essential for ensuring optimal performance and avoiding costly repairs. Regular inspection, cleaning, and monitoring of hydraulic fluid levels can help prolong the lifespan of your hoses. However, if issues arise, timely replacement and proper installation of new hoses will help restore the functionality of your machine. By following best practices and taking care of your hydraulic system, you can keep your Koehring 6620 LC operating smoothly and efficiently for years to come.