Hydraulic Lift Lever Stuck

[WTM]

Have a 2003 E-350DI with 115 c.i. engine. I have 127 hours with no problems. In the last few days the lever that activates the 3 point lift has gotten stiff. Now it will hardly move even with great effort. Hard to pull up or down.Could be as simple as the retaining nut has tightened. I tried a little oil at base of lever to no avail. What would cause the lever to freeze? Have not changed hydraulic oil or filter - could this affect it? Weather was cold (25) for a few days but is mild now.

 

[Varmintmist]

Had a similar with the loader stick when the weather was sub freezing. I hit it with a torch and it freed up so I assume it was ice. If it isnt working while it is warm out I cant think of anything offhand, except somthing jamming the linkage.