Ford 1710 hydraulic pump.

[Burbank_Barry]

What is the best way to determine if a hydraulic pump has gone bad on a Ford 1710 tractor.
If the tractor has sat for 1 hour the bucket will work fine for a few minutes then cease to work. If I repeat that previous procedure the same thing happens again. I also noticed the steering is affected which is assisted by the hydraulic pump.
Thanks

 

[Leejohn]

Low on oil, screen stopped up.

 

[sandman2234]

Low on oil, screen stopped up.

I agree, check your fluid level and type. Double check the inlet screen on the pump, and if it has a hydraulic filter, change it!
David from jax

 

[Burbank_Barry]

My hydraulic fluid level is good. I need to figure out the location of this screen and check it out.

 

[alexbennet]

Sounds like your pump might be losing prime or sucking in air. If it works for a bit then quits, check the hydraulic fluid level first. Make sure it’s not low or foamy. Also take a look at the suction line and fittings for any cracks or loose spots. Sometimes it’s just pulling air instead of fluid.

If that all looks fine, try changing the hydraulic filter. A clogged one can make it act up like that. Only if none of that helps would I start thinking the pump itself’s going bad.