Cleaning hydraulic lines

[Cuda416]

I finally had my leaking cylinder rebuilt and ready to reinstall on to my lift. Got me thinking and I have decided to clean out the hydraulic lines to eliminate the potential for something inside, causing a premature seal failure. I bought the lift used and didn't clean them when I installed it.

Anyone have advice on cleaning such a thing? The longest line is about 20 ft long.

I was thinking spray some brake cleaner followed by a ton of air.

Any concerns with this? Is there a better way to do this at home?

 

[Kendog 170]

Sounds like a good plan to me.

 

[Dana67Dart]

IMHO
I would buy 5 gallons ( ok maybe 2) of the same hydrolics fluid you intentd to use and flush that through all the lines till it comes out clear.

Like flushing brake lines.

Who knows what brake cleaner will do the the inside of flex hoses or cylinder seals

 

[cudascott]

Diesel fuel works well for flushing hydraulic lines. I normally do mine with it and use a Milwaukee battery powered transfer pump to flush the hoses and lines out.

 

[Bodyperson]

I think alcohol would be a good choice.