Kinked Hydraulic Hard Line - Can I leave it be?

[nrowles]

I've decided with this machine "if it ain't broke don't fix it". I was pushing over and moving a lot of jack pines yesterday and one popped up and hit this hard line and kinked it pretty good. I know ideally it should be replaced but I'm not going to unless there is good reason to. The boom seemed to operate like it's supposed to. I didn't notice any changes and it's not leaking.

Are there any downsides to letting this as-is and NOT replacing it? Does it put unwanted pressures in other areas? Can I leave this be if I'm not noticing any issues?

[Jim B]

The main relief valve controls system pressure, that will not increase the pressure. It will restrict flow in and out of that port slowing the reaction of that cylinder a bit and will make a bit more heat than if it was straight. Unlikely it will cause any problems, as long as it doesn't catch on things. The only other thing is if it snaps off from stress you are going to get an oil shower.

[Jim B]

It actually looks like stress on the old hose may be more of an issue.

[nrowles]

ok, understood. I'll have to think on it.