NH 7108 loader noise at Joystick valve

digdug1 · Apr 14, 2008

Hi, I am new to the forum and really appreciate all the good info shared here! I recently purchased a used Ford/NH 1720 with 7108 loader. The tractor and loader work great. The only problem is when lowering the bucket the hydraulics make a loud high pitch squeeling noise at the joystick valve. It only does it when lowering the bucket. Still does it when the machine is warm. It seems like it works the tractor more to lower a load than it does to raise a load which doesnt make sense to me? Also, the loader seems weak when pushing down (cant lift front tires off the ground). Any help would be great!

Thanks!

digdug1 · Apr 15, 2008

Anyone have any ideas?

jinman · Apr 16, 2008

digdug1 said:
Anyone have any ideas?

It doesn't take much to make a squeal. There is probably something in the valve causing vibration. Sometimes even rigid hydraulic lines that are not mounted in rubber may vibrate and make a squealing sound. Try lifting the FEL and then shut off the engine. With the engine off, lower the FEL and listen for the squeal. If it squeals then, you know there is no relief valve lifting. If not, you've at least isolated the problem a little.

Many loaders can't lift the tractors with the lift arms only. Place your bucket flat on the ground and use the bucket curl-down to see if the front tires lift. I'm not sure how much curl power the 7108 has, but normally the curl function has more power than the lift arms.

digdug1 · Apr 17, 2008

Thanks Jinman, I did as you say and lowered the bucket without the tractor running and it still makes the noise (not quite as loud). I assume that I am not hurting anything?