MF 1246 Loader problem

wilkesland · Aug 8, 2006

I have a MF 1260 with a 1246 loader. For some time I have thought that the bucket curl was getting sluggish, but I passed it off as probably my impatience factor rising. However, today I started experiencing a problem in unloading the bucket. At about half way through the curl, the bucket would stop. I was able to make it continue by either slightly raising or lowering the lift arm and then the bucket would resume rotation. I don't have a manual for this loader with troubleshooting hints. Anyone have any thoughts as to what might be my problem or some hints as to how I could go about ascertaining the problem?

Lifting of the main arms seems as fast as it has ever been. Checked the transmission oil/hydraulic fluid and it is full.

Thanks

Barry

wrenchturner · Aug 11, 2006

I have a MF1250 with the 1246 loader and also a backhoe. I bought my tractor used so I was not used to how fast it should operate. My problem was the backhoe operated slowly. Pressure was close to specs. My problem was the strainer in the sump was clogged. It is located on the left side of the tractor just in front of the rear axle. Mine was stuck in the housing so after 15 minutes of twisting and pulling I broke it so had to buy a new one. In retrospect, after changing the strainer the front loader worked faster too. Hope this helps.

wilkesland · Aug 11, 2006

Thanks! I will check that out.

JerryG · Aug 11, 2006

More than likely your dump cylinders are experiencing captivation. They do that when the weigh in the bucket pulls the bucket down faster than fluid is going into the backside of the cylinder. Air separates from the fluid and causes the slow down. There are loader valves that help prevent captivation from happening to a large degree. They are called regenerative valves. This type of valve lets some of the exhausted fluid go from the lower end of the cylinder to the topside where the captivation occurs. The MF1246 loader doesn’t have a regenerative valve. When Massey changed to the 1400 series they went to a regenerative valve.

JerryG · Aug 12, 2006

Raising the RPM level when dumping will eliminate a lot of the problem.

Egon · Aug 12, 2006

Check out the joystick linkages for wear.

wilkesland · Aug 12, 2006

JerryG said:
Raising the RPM level when dumping will eliminate a lot of the problem.

Well! That certainly is a simple thing to try first. Don't know why I didn't think of it - guess I have brain lock. Thanks very much for the explanation of what might be going on, because even if I try it and it works, I still wouldn't have a clue as to why.

Today is a very rainy day here in Northwestern NC, so guess I'll have to wait till Monday to try out your suggestion.

As an aside Jerry, just wanted to know how much I appreciate your numerous posts, I am impressed at your knowledge and consistent helpfulness - (along with many others on this forum) - but you are extremely helpful with Massey's.

Thanks!

Barry

wilkesland · Aug 12, 2006

Egon said:
Check out the joystick linkages for wear.

Thanks! After I try Jerry's suggestion if that doesn't work, will check yours and then on to the strainer as wrench turner suggested.

The same comment I made to Jerry applies to you also. I have read a number of your posts and you, too, are impressive with your consistent helpfulness and patience.

Barry

JerryG · Aug 12, 2006

wilkesland said:
Well! That certainly is a simple thing to try first. Don't know why I didn't think of it - guess I have brain lock. Thanks very much for the explanation of what might be going on, because even if I try it and it works, I still wouldn't have a clue as to why.

Today is a very rainy day here in Northwestern NC, so guess I'll have to wait till Monday to try out your suggestion.

As an aside Jerry, just wanted to know how much I appreciate your numerous posts, I am impressed at your knowledge and consistent helpfulness - (along with many others on this forum) - but you are extremely helpful with Massey's.

Thanks!

Barry

You’re welcome. I am always glad to help.
If the strainer hasn't ever been out, be careful. There was a few of the on the 1240s, 1250s and 1260s where the epoxy didn't hold the screen to the outside housing. Check it when you take it out. If it isn't attached well, clean it and re-epoxy on it.