Moisture can cause corrosion, weaken the hose structure, and eventually lead to costly system failures. Here are some of the risks of moisture damage and some actionable steps to protect your hydraulic hoses in the Gulf Coast area.  Why Moisture Is a Threat to Hydraulic Hoses in the Gulf Coast Region Water enters your hydraulic system through cracks, weak connections, humidity, storm damage, and other factors, leading to various issues. Some notable issues include Corrosion of Metal Components. Moisture causes rust and corrosion on metal parts like fittings and reinforcements, weakening the hose structure and leading to failures. Degradation of Hose Material. Moisture can work its way into cracks and scratches on the hoses, causing swelling, softening, or widening cracks. These issues can lead to leaks or ruptures. Water Contamination in Hydraulic Fluid. Moisture entering the system can contaminate hydraulic fluid, reduce lubrication, create rust inside the components, and cause premature wear of critical parts. Freezing Risk. In cooler conditions, moisture inside hoses can freeze, leading to cracks and clogs within the hose system. Microbial Contamination. Warm, moist conditions can promote bacterial and fungal growth inside hoses, leading to biofilms that clog systems and degrade components. Signs of Moisture in Hydraulic Hoses Detecting moisture damage early can save your business from costly repairs or downtime. Look for these common signs of moisture-related issues during visual inspections. Cloudy or Milky Hydraulic Fluid. When water is present in your hydraulic fluid, it can appear cloudy, milky, or discolored. Corrosion on Metal Parts. Look for rust or corrosion on metal fittings, couplings, or any exposed hydraulic system parts. This can indicate that moisture has entered the system. Deformations in the Hose. Moisture can cause the inner lining of hydraulic hoses to swell or soften, leading to bulging, deformation, or changes in hose flexibility. If these deformations freeze in cold weather, they can further weaken the hose and cause it to burst. Unusual Operating Temperature. Excessive moisture in the hydraulic fluid can reduce its heat transfer capabilities, causing higher temperatures, changes in viscosity, and other issues. Foaming or Bubbles in Fluid Reservoir. When water and oil flow through the system together, they emulsify (break into tiny droplets). If this occurs, it will look like foam or visible bubbles in the fluid reservoir. Preventing Moisture Damage in Hydraulic Hose Systems Premature wear and moisture damage can be prevented without expensive system changes. Here are a few practical things you can do to extend the life of your hydraulic hoses. Store Equipment Properly Keep your hydraulic hoses and equipment covered or in dry, sheltered environments to reduce moisture exposure. If you store your inventory outside, consider using protective coverings like tarps or wraps. If your area is prone to flooding, make sure your inventory is stored above ground level and avoid places where water could pool around them. Regularly Inspect Hoses and Fittings Check hoses for cracking, rust, or leaks after storms or excessive seasonal temperature changes. Make sure to inspect the fittings and connections in the process. Install a Hydroscopic Breather Water can enter hydraulic systems through the reservoir breather during fluid changes. Switching a standard breather cap to a hygroscopic breather prevents this by filtering out particles and absorbing moisture from the air. Check For Proper Hose Installation Improper installation leaves your hydraulic hoses vulnerable to moisture damage. Be sure that your hoses are routed correctly and that fittings are securely tightened. If you need help with the proper parts or installation techniques, consult an expert who can help optimize your system. Action Supply Can Help You Optimize Your Hydraulic Systems Moisture damage is just one of many issues that can affect your hydraulic hose systems. We will recommend the right oil to handle seasonal temperature fluctuations, the right fittings to avoid leaks and issues, and even provide inventory management services to ensure you have the parts you need. Contact us today for your custom solutions this season.

Despite the growing interest in Electronic Braking Systems (EBS), Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) continue to be the preferred choice for heavy-duty trucks due to their reliability. Here are some common mistakes made during air brake system inspections and adjustments with tips on how to Neglecting Regular Inspections Regular inspections are critical to detect wear and tear before they become costly breakdowns. Procrastinating on this critical task can lead to accidents, injuries, and other risks. You should visually inspect the air brake system every three months and more thoroughly on a schedule according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Plan for extra visual inspections if your fleet is exposed to extreme weather, severe temperatures, or other environmental hazards. Improper Adjustment of Brake Components Improper adjustments can occur due to a lack of understanding of the correct adjustment procedures or the use of incorrect tools. For example, an imperfect slack adjuster can lead to excessive brake shoe wear or inadequate braking force. Make sure your crew follows the manufacturer's guidelines and uses the right tools for adjustments and repairs. A minute saved with a rushed job can cost many days' worth of issues later. Ignoring Manufacturer Specifications Each brake system has specific manufacturer specifications and guidelines. Doing things like using incorrect brake linings or failing to maintain the recommended air pressure can lead to decreased performance and increased risk of brake failure. Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual and adhere to the specified maintenance practices.If you are unsure if a substitute part will work for your fleet vehicle, contact hardware supply experts to discuss your options. Failing to Check Supporting Hoses and Valves Air leaks in the brake system can severely affect braking performance. Common areas where leaks might occur include the air hoses, valves, and connections. During inspections make sure to: Check for cracks, bulges, and other deformities in the hoses Gently pinch the hoses to check for blisters and soft spots that indicate internal damage Check joints, valves, and connectors for signs of corrosion and loose connections Take care that all tubes and parts are clean during repairs and replacements. Any debris that makes its way in is not likely to come back out If you suspect a leak, cover the hose with soapy water and look for bubbles. Replace any faulty parts early on to avoid more costly repairs later. A customized inventory management service can help you avoid long back orders and delays. Overlooking the Air Dryer and Filters The air dryer and filters play a critical role in maintaining the quality of the air within the brake system. Moisture and contaminants in the air can cause corrosion and damage to the brake components, especially in humid areas like the Gulf Coast. The staff of Fleet Magazine recommend, “Drivers and fleets should always monitor the quality of the air in their service tanks to ensure air dryers are functioning properly. If excessive moisture—or oil mixed with water—is present in an air system, the air dryer’s cartridge may need to be replaced.” Regularly checking and replacing the air dryer cartridge and filters can prevent moisture buildup and ensure the longevity of the brake system. Refer to the manufacturer’s appropriate data sheet for the best intervals.  Let Action Supply Help You Maintain Your Fleet Whether you need the gold standards in fleet maintenance parts or robust inventory management, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality customer care. Our inventory experts will work hard, earn your trust, and help you get the job done right. Contact us today to discuss your fleet maintenance needs.