RogerN wrote:
I have a busted hose on my backhoe between the valves and the boom. I
decided to replace all 4 hoses in this area while I'm at it, since the other
hoses are getting old.

I have changed one of these hoses before and it was difficult to get tools
to the fittings and getting enough torque on them to break things free.

I have since bought crow foot wrenches to fit the hoses & fittings. I saw
some 6 and 12 pt flare crow foot wrenches in McMaster Carr and thought the
12 pt might allow better access to the flare nuts at the valve bank (not
much clearance between nuts). Anyway, I'm needing to order some items from
McMaster Carr and would like to have the best tools for changing these hard
to get to hoses.

Any suggestions on tools or techinques for replacing the hard to get to
hoses on a backhoe (Case 580B with model 32(I think) backhoe modified to
fit).

Make sure the conical sealing surfaces are free from dirt and undamaged
(assuming this is how the hoses seal). I fitted a new hose on a backhoe
stabiliser leg and couldn't get it to seal. I did it up a bit tighter
and the fitting broke (it was only a 1/4" hose I think). So make sure
the cones are undamaged and free from dirt, and don't overtighten them
like I did. Tighten them a little and if they ooze oil tighten them a
bit more. I only did that once, but it was a real pain because I had to
take it 20 miles get a new end crimped onto the hose!

Chris