Which statement about hydraulic leaks is correct?

Which statement about hydraulic leaks is correct?

• A. With the engine running and hydraulics pressurized, check for leaks.
• B. With the engine off and hydraulics depressurized, inspect all hoses, cylinders and fittings for leaks, and operate controls slowly to observe leaks.
• C. Only visually inspect external hoses.
• D. Check leaks after lifting a load.

Answer: (B)

Inspect hydraulic leaks by exercising the system safely under controlled, depressurized conditions. With the engine off and hydraulics depressurized, you can thoroughly inspect all hoses, cylinders, and fittings for leaks. Operating the controls slowly during the check lets the system move just enough to reveal leaks that only show up when components shift and seals flex. Simply looking at external hoses is not enough, because leaks can occur at fittings, along cylinder connections, or inside hoses that aren’t obvious at rest. Checking after lifting a load isn’t ideal; leaks should be identified before heavy operation to avoid surprises and potential hazards.

Inspect hydraulic leaks by exercising the system safely under controlled, depressurized conditions. With the engine off and hydraulics depressurized, you can thoroughly inspect all hoses, cylinders, and fittings for leaks. Operating the controls slowly during the check lets the system move just enough to reveal leaks that only show up when components shift and seals flex. Simply looking at external hoses is not enough, because leaks can occur at fittings, along cylinder connections, or inside hoses that aren’t obvious at rest. Checking after lifting a load isn’t ideal; leaks should be identified before heavy operation to avoid surprises and potential hazards.