MF231 weak 3 point, cannot lift any load after repair

[oldbeagle]

Tractor was put in shop because the top attachment point of the 3point hitch (the draft control link?) or whatever it's called was found loose and could be turned left and right and nothing would happen. Before this the lift arms worked normally.
Now after the repair, the lift arms have no strength. They can raise themselves and a pallet fork, but nothing heavier. I noticed when I tried to lift the pallet fork with me on it, it worked but the lift arms would shudder and that draft control top link was REALLY shuddering.
Fluid is new and at correct level.
I know nothing of tractor hydraulics and I guess the shop doesn't know much more about it.

Any ideas would be helpful in case I have to take it to another mechanic.

 

[Dmacleo]

is that the type with draft control set one way can cause lower/lift system to freak out? been a long time since i have dealt with one so...

 

[def38]

The repair shop may not have adjusted the control valves properly. There are some Youtube videos that describe the procedure. Also, there are manuals on line that contain the details regarding properly assembling and adjusting the control valves.

What did the mechanic repair or replace when the tractor was worked on? Did they provide any details?

Does you 231 have a diverter valve? There are O rings in the hydraulic oil tube that must be installed correctly. You are likely gonna have to find someone who knows a bit about the hydraulics on that series M-F. I have a 231s with the same system. Mine was recently worked on. The oil sump was full of junk. Took a fellow about 4 hours to clean it our and get rid of the sludge in the gearbox/hydraulic system. That tractor is capable of lifting a small car off the ground with the lift arms if all is working properly in the 3 point system. The hydraulic pumps in that model are reliable and should last the life of the tractor if the filter is serviced. If the lift cylinder was worked on the mechanic may have installed the lift cover gasket incorrectly. Too many possibilities for errors to cover. A mechanic should first determine that the pump is providing correct pressure and flow. From there, it is understanding the hydraulic fluid path, where leaks can occur and determining the fix.