Untitled Document

D1's Anderson creates pressure-release device
for plow removal

Once plows are installed on our trucks, removing the plow when the truck needs to be repaired or serviced requires releasing the pressure from the hydraulic line, and that operation can be dangerous. So, Terry Anderson from District 1's Coeur d'Alene Maintenance crew came up with a hydraulic pressure release to solve that problem.

These devices are used anytime the plow has to be removed and reinstalled on the truck. There is usually enough residual pressure in the lines to prevent an operator from reconnecting the lines.

Using these devices to release the pressure from the hydraulic lines allows our workers to safely re-hook the hydraulic lines without applying pressure to them. It involves placing a set of hydraulic fittings in a strategically placed pressure release hole, then using a threaded tee handle release mechanism on each fitting.

"You will see in my video how to place and release hot high pressure hydraulic fluid in a faster and safer manner," Anderson explained. "This will save time and injuries to many."

Watch Anderson's how-to video here.

Anderson said he's since made a modification to the device to prevent the user from damaging the coupling.

"We currently use a hammer and screwdriver, and tap on it, spraying hot fluid all over the place, which is very dangerous for the person doing the tapping and all employees around the area," he added. "We position the screwdriver to make contact with the check valve plunger and then hit the screwdriver with the hammer. To give you an idea of what happens at that instant, imagine you are holding a garden hose about 2-3 feet from your face and it suddenly starts shooting hot water. The result should be obvious. Now the hydraulic oil is everywhere. It's on the floor, all over the plow harness, the plow and you get a face full of it."

Anderson's device contains the oil spray and has a drain hole drilled into it. The operator can position this drain hole to direct the hydraulic oil while relieving the access hydraulic pressure and with a small drip pan, prevent the oil from spewing everywhere.

Anderson said he has received requests from other sheds for a set of the hydraulic pressure release devices for their own crews.