Swapping Hydraulic Couplers on Skid Steer Attachment
At 1:02 in
WHO NEEDS AN AX!
What happens here
The host starts his John Deere 250 skid steer, which features newly installed Grouser tracks. He backs it out from under a carport. He then explains the critical step of replacing the hydraulic couplers on the Mini Clip attachment to match the skid steer. He elaborates on the distinction between flat-faced couplers, which are standard for skid steers, and pipe thread couplers, typically used on tractors. He shows both types and the specific O-ring type coupler that is needed, recounting a previous incident where using the incorrect couplers resulted in being 'bathed in hydraulic fluid.' He proceeds to remove the old couplers and install the correct O-ring type, using an adjustable wrench with a built-in vise grip for secure tightening. He notes that the previous couplers were ordered for a tractor, not a skid steer, necessitating the swap.
Goal: Prepare the Mini Clip for attachment to the skid steer by installing the correct hydraulic couplers.
Tools and materials
- Adjustable Wrench with Vise Grip Stanley — Tightening the hydraulic couplers
- Black Gloves — Protecting hands from hydraulic fluid
- Flat-faced Couplers — The correct type of hydraulic couplers for the skid steer
- Grouser Tracks Grouser — Providing traction for the skid steer
- John Deere 250 Skid Steer John Deere — Operating the Mini Clip and providing hydraulic power
- O-ring Type Couplers — The correct style of coupler needed for the skid steer's hydraulic lines
- Pipe Thread Couplers — Incorrect coupler type, used for comparison
- Tooth Bucket — The standard attachment removed from the skid steer to mount the Mini Clip
- Rag — Wiping off hydraulic fluid