What is correct method for storage of hydraulics?

mooneypilot · Jan 8, 2005

Hi. What is the correct position when not using the rear hydraulic system (for storage )? Should it be lowered all the way, and can an attachment be lefted on? Have had this Farm Pro2425 for 1 week, and its been a blast so far! We have 5 acres of hilly land. Turned the wheels to get wider track as recommended via this forum. Have had to use the 4WD in a few situations.
The horn quit working, but it was just a bad connection. The rear hydraulic must be fully warm to work at normal speed, is
this normal? Thanks in advance for the advice!

jonrjen · Jan 8, 2005

the fluid will thicken up in cold weather, so slower operation would be normal at first. If you leave an impliment attached to the 3 point, I recommend lowering the hitch. Keeps pressure off of the system, also keeps you from bumping your knees on a raised blade or disc, whatever. If no attachments are on the 3 point, it makes no difference to leave in the raised position.

Cliff_Johns · Jan 8, 2005

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( If you leave an impliment attached to the 3 point, I recommend lowering the hitch. Keeps pressure off of the system, also keeps you from bumping your knees on a raised blade or disc, whatever. )</font>

Just make sure you raise it again before you drive out of the barn. Not that I've ever done that, but I've heard the results can be a real drag.

Cliff

JohnS · Jan 8, 2005

Yes, lowered, you want to take any pressure off the system. If you have a fel, lower it to within one inch of the ground before shuting tractor off. Then lower it the last inch after shut off. If you shut-off with fel raised, and then lower, you stand to expel some hyd fluid out the vent. You are pushing the oil out of the cylinders, but the pump is not drawing anymore in.

bluechip · Jan 8, 2005

If you have the factory oil in the hydraulic tank it is too heavy for winter use, takes too long to warm up and glow. you can change it to a 10w hyd. oil (R& O or AW32 etc) for improved results.
We always change this oil when we install a loader, rather than adding to the thick stuff. Check with your dealer to see what they did (if it is a dealer install).