Branson 6530 hydraulic problem.

[Steve6004]

I have a Branson 6530 with the BL30 loader. The hydraulic valves controlling the loader function leaked for years so I bit the bullet and ordered a Branson valve. $1600, ouch. I replaced the valve and the loader functions normally with no leaks. Now it gets weird.

with the tractor running it “feels” like the engine is bogging down. When I use any loader function, the engine sounds better and I gain about 50-100 rpm. When I stop moving the loader i lose the rpm’s again.

The Branson has an electric switch controlling the 3 pt lift. Click it up and the lift raises. Click it down and lift goes down. This up function has stopped working. UNLESS. I click the desired position AND operate the loader. If the loader is moving up or down then the lift will move up. The lift will lower from gravity pressure if clicked down.

I have my hay rake attached to a remote. Operating the remote up or down has no effect on the 3 pt lift. The remote functions normally. The hydraulic fluid level is good and I replaced the hydraulic filter.
I am stumped. it seems that hydraulic pressure Is blocked by the loader valves. All I did was replace a factory part with a factory part. The hoses are right. I thought I may have reversed the in/ out hoses but the out hose is too short to screw up.
before I go and put the leaking part back on the tractor I thought I would reach out for some help.

 

[K5lwq]

It sounds as if you have the power beyond and tank hoses reversed. Can you post a picture of the valve and connections?

I not sure I understand the RPM change but I would start with this and go from there.

 

[K5lwq]

Another question. Are your sure your new valve has power beyond port and the power beyond sleeve installed?

 

[ptsg]

I second what K5 said on both posts. Also, almost sounds like the new valve was setup for closed center, so it may need a plug inside on one of the ports to be removed depending on the style of valve.

Pictures definitely help in this case.

Also, great call on noticing the engine working harder. Most people won't pay attention to little details like that and that's how they destroy hydraulic pumps. Sometimes even by just leaving one of the remove valves locked in detent.

 

[Tx Jim]

I agree with both previous replies. Check return & PBY hose connection locations on FEL control valve

 

[ericm979]

I'd think that a replacement valve specifically for that model Branson would be open center if the tractor is open center.

It sounds like you're dead heading all the time except when the loader valve is operated. When dead heading the hydraulic pump is pushing all the fluid through the relief valve. That's why the rpm rises when you operate the loader. Depending on the valve and your hearing you might be able to hear the squeal from the relief valve.

 

[Steve6004]

I appreciate all the feedback. I adjusted the pressure. I gave it 2 turns to lower the pressure and I could hear the load come off the engine. The 3 point hitch is working correctly again. I assumed the factory replacement would be set to specs. My problem is I have limited knowledge of hydraulics. I know the basics. Clean fluid, clean filters, fix leaks. I don’t have manuals for the tractor. Heck, it’s not even my tractor. My 80 year old dad likes to buy roadside equipment and I get sucked into “take a look at this for me”. Can anyone suggest a basic hydraulic book or website? I want to learn more.

 

[Harry in Ky]

Adjusted pressure on what? No offense, but your statement makes no sense to me. With a standard open center system there is (or should be) little or no pressure anywhere until a function is activated. Oil flow is then diverted and pressure builds until demand is met. With all valves in neutral, and no demand called for, the relief valve(s) would not be in play, so what did you adjust that made a difference?

 

[K5lwq]

I agree with Harry. Is there a possibility that a remote valve in not centered? Still sounds like the pump is dead heading.

 

[LD1]

Definitly something more going on. Relief adjustment should only make a difference when a hydraulic function is being used. It should have NO effect on an open center system when in idle.