Log Splitter Hydro Fluid Leak

[ColdNorCal]

Noticed a slight leak when using the splitter in vertical mode. It seemed to take several minutes for a drop to occur. I tightened up the fitting, circled in red, and used the splitter for another 30 mins. I checked the fitting again and it s still weeping, very slight leak. It takes a 7/8 inch wrench and I tightened it up pretty good. Nothing crazy but plenty snug. After using it the second time I gave it another quarter to 1/2 a turn. Using a 13" long wrench and the amount of force applied I would think it should have stopped leaking.

Do these compression fittings typically require a lot of force to tighten?

This is a DHT 25 ton bought from Lowes. It is still under warranty but DHT is no longer in business. Should I call Lowes first before I possibly break something? Or lay into it a bit more...?

btw- that solid line that parallels the ram and beam was actually rubbing on the beam. I was able to move it a 1/2" from the beam before tightening the leaking fitting . Im thinking that vibration and the line rubbing against the beam could have caused the line to move and loosen the fitting causing the leak.

 

[WoodScrounger]

It looks to me like it is a 37 degree flare fitting known as JIC . These are normally very good sealing fittings that should only take a (reasonable pull for the wrench size)to tighten properly. It is usually more of a problem (especially with steel tube) that these fittings leak due to over tightening. Proper tightening is as follows: tighten finger tight or until you can tell the nut is against the seat, make a mark on the nut and tighten proper number of flats for size of fitting. In this case (going by size of wrench used , fittings size is -08 ). You should tighten 1 1/4 to 1 3/4 flats.
Another problem that can happen to steel tube either by over tightening or vibration is cracking in the flare or at the back of the flare . Spin the nut loose and check for cracks where the flare starts from the straight tube.

 

[thebaron23]

Looks like a -6 or -8 JIC.
I hate steel lines. Take if off and replace with a rubber+braid line. They're more tolerant to vibration than steel.

 

[ColdNorCal]

Used the splitter for about 2 hours today and no leak or weeping. Will consider the suggestions but will call on Lowes first if it happens again while under warranty.

Appreciate the help!