Hydraulic Noise at Startup

1990F-150 · Apr 24, 2024

My MT240 has a noticeable hydraulic squeal at startup. It only happens for a few seconds and when the tractor has been sitting for a few days. Is this a common issue? Should I be concerned or should I not worry about it. I have been on a friend's Kubota tractor that seemed to make the same noise on startup, so it may just be a normal noise. I'm coming from a Ford 8n, so I'm not used to some of the newer technology

garry1p · Apr 25, 2024

I had the same problem until I tightened the alternator belt.

JCoastie · Apr 25, 2024

Yes it is common with at least the MT240, if it lasts just a few seconds, that should be fine, if it's like 10 seconds, it might require splitting the tractor for a new HST pump like mine and some others. I'll go find the thread about it and be back to post a link.

JCoastie · Apr 25, 2024

here is the thread Mt 240he hydro cavitation?

If your squeal is quick, you're probably fine, if it is long like mine in the video in post 4 of that thread, you'll need some warranty work.

1990F-150 · Apr 25, 2024

Wow, I never knew that was an issue. Long term could this cause any damage to the hydraulic system? For now, I'm going to keep and eye on it and see if it gets any worse.

JCoastie · Apr 25, 2024

just don't watch it past the warranty period, it was a $4300 repair.
As far as long term damage, I have no idea, I just know I was embarrassed whenever I started my tractor.

And with your other post, about hydro filters and fluids.... the repair comes with new filters and fluid, so at ~300 hours, I got all new stuff. (also did the 50hr both filters myself) I'll be switching to synthetic at the next filter change, no real reason other than peace of mind.