We had such a bad experience with this model I was very quick to dump on it. I to this day do not know what caused the problem with the hydraulics. My best guess is the brake pad material as the brakes wore substantially needing numerous adjustments in the 2 years we had the tractors. This material constantly fouled the hydraulic filter. Anywhere from 60-100 hours required a cleaning of the filter whether it was refilled with the used or fresh hydraulic oil. The bottom 2-3 inches of the filter would be packed with grunge. Cleaning the inside of the housing was also needed. In addition we had issues with the injection pumps, steering tie rods wearing out (less than 250) hours and numerous other items. I almost went Green until my dealer gave me an "at cost" deal to go to a Pair of 253s. Two of the best tractors we ever had. I'm sorry that I ever traded those 2.
