Hi JC,
Yep, I have a loader and it works quite well. The loader is a Koyker (although the hydraulics leak a little on the bucket cylinders need some new seals). I am going to take the check valve out on the left side of the piston head and move the lift arm up to see if I have any flow at all. Two springs and two steel balls as I recall seeing in your post. And yes my intention is to find a place to disconnect the discharge line once I determine where that is past the rear of the diverter block going to the loader. I did have fluid in the piston before I took it apart yesterday. If it is warm enough tomorrow I am on shift today. I may try some steps inside my (thank God) heated garage tomorrow.
First hail last night, thunder this morning with rain, then snow and wind, now sun is out setting in west. All we need now is some lightning and tornadoes welcome to Kansas!