Touch Control Leaking

[CoachP]

Here is what I have. The attached picture is of the hydraulic manifold where it connects to the side of the touch control unit. The hex head fitting on the left is leaking hydraulic fluid from it. The hydraulics work, but when I raise and lower my mower deck, fluid squirts out from around this fitting. I tried to tighten it with an allen wrench and I could only get about an eighth of a turn on it. It's tight, but leaking... and yes, what you see appears to be teflon tape around the threads that someone has put on there, obviously to stop a leak. My question(s)... does this fitting control pressure in the TC in any way? Could this be the wrong sized fitting/wrong treads that someone tried to force in there? Are the threads ruined and if so, what do I do now? Any and all help would be appreciated.

Thanks

[Slim140]

Could just be the picture but it looks cross threaded. Take it out, retap it with grease on the tap to catch any chips. You may need a new plug as well if it's cross threaded, should be available at a local hardware store.

[Don McCombs]

I agree completely with Shane. But, I would take the manifold off to chase the threads. That way you can clean it up good and be certain that you have not gotten any metal chips in the system.

[Slim140]

I agree with Don, you'd be better off to take it off to not contaminate the system.

[CoachP]

Thanks for the input, gentlemen. I'll see if I can get after fixing it this weekend, or perhaps sooner if my schedule will allow.

[Jim Becker]

Step one, I'd probably get a new plug, add a little Teflon paste, and try it without reworking the threads in the hole (assuming thread problems weren't obvious on inspection).