front loader problems

[tommyboy1]

Hello all,

I'm trying to diagnose a hydraulic problem with a John Deere front end loader.

I was using the loader when all of a sudden I was unable to control the bucket or loader arms through the control levers. The front loader raised all the way to the uppermost position and the bucket has no control. I did not see any hydraulic fluid leakage and the control valves seem to move freely when I pull or push the control levers.

After closer inspection, it appears that a piece of brush or sapling may have loosened a hydraulic coupler at the bottom of the tractor but I didn"t see hydraulic fluid leakage around this area. I'm wondering if anyone out there has any suggestions that may lead me to a solution.

thanks,

tommyboy1

 

[J_J]

Just re-connect all QD's and try again.

 

[tommyboy1]

thanks J.J., i'll give it a try. Can hardly wait to get work in the 10 degree weather.

 

[Leejohn]

If the loader is up, you better bleed it down before you unhook anything. JJ must of forgot to say that.

 

[J_J]

Was the disconnect from a loader hose or some hose further back?

With the loader up, there will be pressure on the QD, so it might be difficult to connect.

If he did connect with the valve in neutral, the loader should not move very much.

Put a 4 x 4 brace under the loader arms before connecting or slowly bleed the fluid from the cyl.

 

[tommyboy1]

thanks guys,
I planned on bracing the loader before working on it,although bleeding it down may be a better option, I don't want to have the loader come crashing down if I need to remove or replace the qd. What's the best way to bleed the system down safely? Is there usually some type of valve in the line for this purpose?

J_J, the disconnect is further back on the underside of the tractor but looks like it directly feeds the loader controls. I haven't been able to get to the loader due to snow removal around the house. I will probably start working on it tonight. BRRR a high of 10 degrees in Michigan.

 

[J_J]

I would brace the lift arms anyway, and then either tap on the ball or poppet or loosen the QD to release some fluid.

Also wiggle the loader levers to release any pressure.

 

[tommyboy1]

J.J.
Yes, I will brace the lift arms as well. thanks for the info and concern.

 

[Tx Jim]

I good method to secure a FEL in the air is cut angle iron to length of exposed cyl rod,insert and then secure angle iron with hose clamps.

 

[tommyboy1]

thanks Tx Jim, a good idea that I would never have thought of.