How to Replace Whip Line & O-Rings on the Active Hose Reel

How to Replace Whip Line & O-Rings on the Active Hose Reel

Overview

Whether you're troubleshooting a leak or performing preventative maintenance, replacing the whip line (also known as the jumper hose) and worn O-rings is a simple way to extend the life of your hose reel. This guide walks through how to replace the most accessible parts, plus a few extra components you can only reach with partial disassembly.

1. Remove the Whip Line

Start by removing the existing whip line from the inlet shaft of the reel. You'll see a small C-clip securing the fitting in place:

  • Use a flathead screwdriver to pry out the C-clip. There’s a small notch designed for this purpose.
  • Once the clip is out, slide the whip hose fitting off the shaft. If it’s tight, gently twist as you pull.

2. Replace the O-Rings on the Inlet Shaft

With the whip line removed, two 11mm x 3mm O-rings will be visible on either side of the inlet shaft's base:

  • Use a pick tool to remove the old O-rings.
  • Install the new O-rings by pressing them into the grooves firmly.

3. Reattach the Whip Line

After replacing the inlet O-rings, reassemble the whip line:

  • Slide the whip line fitting back onto the shaft.
  • Snap the C-clip back into its original position to lock the fitting in place.

4. Replace the Outer O-Ring in the Quick-Connect

If your reel uses a 3/8" quick-connect fitting, inspect the outer O-ring located just inside the mouth of the connector:

  • Use a pick tool to remove the worn O-ring.
  • Install a new O-ring of the same size.

5. Optional: Inner Quick-Connect O-Ring

There’s a second O-ring located deeper inside the quick-connect fitting. This O-ring is only accessible if the hose reel is disassembled or if you remove the quick-connect fitting from the pipe.

  • The fitting is often glued in place, so removal may require extra force or specialized tools.

Bonus: If Your Hose Reel Is Already Disassembled

If you’ve already taken your hose reel apart, consider replacing these two additional components:

  • Bonus 1 – Reel-Side O-Ring: On the reel side of the 3-way connector, replace the 8mm x 2mm O-ring. Use your pick tool to remove the old one and press the new one into place.
  • Bonus 2 – Bearing Washer: Inside the bearing (once the reel is off the support plate), you’ll find a pressed-in rubber washer. Replace it with a new one sized 35mm x 21mm x 6mm.

Conclusion

Replacing the whip line and O-rings is a cost-effective way to stop leaks and keep your hose reel performing like new. These steps can be done with basic tools and a bit of patience. If you’re already doing a full teardown, it’s a good opportunity to swap the less accessible components too.