Hydraulic leak...can I solder or mig weld?

Pete D · Apr 27, 2010

Have a little pinhole leak where it looks like the fitting is done with solder. I have never done it on anything but copper. I'm sure this piece was factory done. I have a mig welder but I think even on my lowest setting I will burn through the pipe. Any suggestions other than just replacing the whole piece? It is the pipe that runs under the seat to rear hydraulic distributor.

Thanks !!!
Pete

Pete D · Apr 27, 2010

Sorry guys...I tried to upload a photo in the post but apparently it went somewhere else on the site??? Also its on my farmall 560.

Andrew Z · Apr 27, 2010

your best luck will be brazing it.

Andrew

Pete D · Apr 27, 2010

Thanks.....I'm researching how to do that now....I feel like an idiot, but I just have never had to braze before. I can weld and solder copper....so how hard can it be right? LOL =) (there's the invite for murphy's law)

armand tatro · Apr 27, 2010

When brazing remember one thing: CLEAN, CLEAN, AND THEN CLEAN SOME MORE. Brazing and solding share this same requirment. Clean material, clean rods and flux, and clean hands!!! Also use a small tip (#1) for the o&a gas welder. Also you need clean tools! No oil resideau! Buy a new wire brush you think your old one might be dirty. Good luck. Armand

Pete D · Apr 27, 2010

Andrew,

Should this be a silver braze? Do you think I can get the distributor metal hot enough with map gas?

Pete

Pete D · Apr 27, 2010

Thanks Armand...that's one thing I did read...clean clean and clean!!! Unfortunately I don't have an o&a setup...but I have been wanting one....perhaps this is the PERFECT excuse to get one =)

504 · Apr 27, 2010

I would use silver solder, bronze may never cause trouble but it can crack from vibration.

charles todd · Apr 27, 2010

Like others said. Clean it and clean it some more. Then braze it. I have had success with flux coated brass rods and there are some repairs on my 504 that are probably over 30 years old and holding on steel lines and fittings.

CT

Jim Becker · Apr 28, 2010

If I was going to learn how to braze, I'd probably look for something less expensive and less critical to practice on. If I wanted that part repaired, I'd take it to an experienced shop and have it silver soldered. Don't forget, you are dealing with both vibration and high pressure.

Pete D · Apr 29, 2010

I wouldn't do it myself I counted on it for income. Typically I would certainly agree with you regardless of income but I sort of planned on this being my "learning tractor". I used a bronze flux coated rod 120,000 psi tinsel strength. It took a couple of times and some excessive fluid loss, but she's done and held through some disking today. We'll see what the future brings. I do appreciate the advice though.

Pete

Hydraulic leak...can I solder or mig weld?

Pete D

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Andrew Z

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armand tatro

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504

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