Mark Barnes

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By Mark Barnes, Senior Vice President, Global Business Development, Des-Case Corporation Most fluid power specialists recognize the importance of hydraulic fluid cleanliness to optimize the efficiency and reliability of hydraulic systems. As much as 90% of hydraulic system problems are attributable to fluid contamination. As a result, all hydraulic system designs include filtration to meet or exceed target cleanliness levels.

We’ve used other products designed to reduce the awkwardness of filling a bike’s gas tank with a clumsy, heavy, five-gallon fuel jug; see our review of Pit Posse’s Spout Bender (MCN, 9/13) or Google the Hose Bender from Risk Racing. These use a wire tether to hold the jug’s flexible spout at a fixed 90-degree angle, thereby reducing the likelihood of spillage. They also leave both hands free to support the weight of the jug and control its tilt.