4520 w/400x loader question

[JimmyDee]

GoodMorning,
Just took delivery of the titled tractor and loader. I have a log that I happen to know the weight of, that is 18' long and weights 1765 lbs. With the bucket attached I lifted one end off the ground about 4' at this point everything is steady. Then I curled the bucket inward and when I released the joy stick the bucket started uncurling and the rate of about 1" per minute. It would not be hard to find someone that knows more than I do about this so my question is, is this normal?
Thank you in advance!
Jim

[trook]

If all that weight creates leverage against the tip of the loader bucket, I would say that 1" per minute is VERY minimal. I think everything is ok. I have a 4320 with FEL

[jenkinsph]

I would find that objectionable for such a light load. What will it do with a heaping bucket of dirt? One thing I would check is whether the spool valve for the bucket curl is returning to the center position when you have the joystick centered. I had to make some adjustments on my 4520 to alleviate this problem, now the cylinders hold for a day or two without any noticable movement.


Steve

[JimmyDee]

Originally Posted by jenkinsph

I would find that objectionable for such a light load. What will it do with a heaping bucket of dirt? One thing I would check is whether the spool valve for the bucket curl is returning to the center position when you have the joystick centered. I had to make some adjustments on my 4520 to alleviate this problem, now the cylinders hold for a day or two without any noticable movement.


Steve

Steve..Thank you for your reply, the joystick appears to be returning to the center when it is released. If it did not would the bucket not try to uncurl even with no weight? If it does this with the bucket I believe that with the forks on would only be worse...Jim

[jenkinsph]

What I found was that while the joystick was in center position the spool valve (at the rear of the tractor curb side) was not centered correctly. I adjusted the cable linkage to resolve this. I use the joystick to control my top and tilt hitch, I don't have a loader on this tractor as my 110tlb handles those chores.


Steve

[JimmyDee]

The problem continues, dealer suggested that I cycle the bucket several times in case there was air in the lines. Did this and with a pallet loaded with firewood it will dump itself in about 3-1/2 minutes, if I don't keep my hand on the joystick. Pulled it back in the garage and with the forks empty except for me (205lbs) standing on them, they will un-curl at the rate of about 1" every 30 seconds. The dealer is scratching his head but has assured me that it can be fixed, suggested a bad cylinder or valve. Will know more next week after he gets it in his shop.

[Willl]

Do you have quick connects on those curl lines ?

Disconnect them and see if it still 'uncurls', if it does it's your cylinder(s). If it don't, it's your valve.

[JimmyDee]

While waiting on the dealer to come pick up the tractor, I just by chance checked the hyd. fluid and it was down below the add mark. Do you think this would have any bearing on the problem?........jim

[kennyd]

Originally Posted by JimmyDee

While waiting on the dealer to come pick up the tractor, I just by chance checked the hyd. fluid and it was down below the add mark. Do you think this would have any bearing on the problem?........jim

No. Sounds like a leaky cylinder to me.

Was the loader and 3PH fully lowered when you checked the fluid?

[JimmyDee]

After a few minutes of 'head scratching' and blank stares, the dealer loaded my 4520 up and it's on the way to his dealership. When/if the problem is discovered I'll post the results.
Hope everyone has a great day!
Jim