2005 5740c hydraulics

Inspector7 · Dec 17, 2008

Does any one know if you can or how to adjust the hyd. pressure? I am only able to pick up about 1500 lbs on my pallet forks. I would sure like to unload a one ton pallet of wood pellets. I would like to say for those who wonder about these tractors, that I bought this last year used (55hrs). And who ever had it tried to tear it up and sprung the front end loader. Other wise I have had no problems with the tractor and use it almost daily.

kennyd · Dec 17, 2008

Welcome to TBN

Messing with the max system pressure can lead to very expensive problems! Before you start, you need to buy a gauge (Less than $20 online or at TSC) and see what it is set for now, and compare that to the factory specs. Often, the PRV (pressure relief valve) is set lower than factory spec so a little can be gained there.

What is your loader rated for?

Inspector7 · Dec 17, 2008

Thanks for the good advice. I don't know what the loader is rated at, just less than what the last owner thought it was.

Unclebuck257 · Dec 17, 2008

Inspector,

I've got a 5740C that I've had since Feb. 05. I've never had any problems with it lifting up to approx 2000 lbs. I'll have to find my manual and get back to you on those pressure figures. I'll bet if you called Montana directly that they'd give you that info though. I wouldn't want to go over approx 2000 lbs though. When I do lift something that heavy, I do it really carefully and quickly. Unloading pallets off a flatbed trailer and stacking very nearby would be what I mean. Also, counterweights in the back are needed too.

Inspector7 · Dec 17, 2008

I would apreciate that. I have contacted Montana and they only directed me to my local dealer who is a really nice guy but knows nothing about the tractor. I travel for work and have stopped at three different dealers and they could not help me either. I do have fluid in my tires and believe that weight should be enough to offset the front for what I want to do. I am in agreement with you that basically just off loading a ton is about it.

mwb · Dec 17, 2008

I don't understan why any dealer couldn't help you. I checked the Montana web site and your loader should be rated at 2,475 lbs.(at max. height)
3,000 lbs. (to 59 in.). This spec is for the current model loader but your 2005 should be very similar. My tiny 3940 would easily lift 1500 lbs to mid height.

Check the Montana web site for more info:

Montana Tractors 2008 115 - 5740 Loader Implements

JDeerekid · Dec 17, 2008

I cant remember where the valve is that you adjust but its just a turn of a valve under the tractor. Your tractor should easily be able to lift over 2000#'s my 4340C will lift about 2200#'s. I had my dealer turn mine pressure up a bit as it was preset pretty weak. He doe it on all the tractors he gets in now.

Texasgreen · Dec 17, 2008

Under the cab on the right side where the FEL control cables connect to the hydraulic flow control valve is where the FEL relief valves are. There are two small metal round brush covers that go over the relief valves for protection on the FEL control valve assy.

Take off the round cover for the FEL and there will be a bolt with a jam nut. Adjust the bolt inward for more flow and lifting power. Be careful to not over do it. Get a gauge and test your line pressures. Get a 0-3500# gauge and adapt it to fit your FEL 1/2" quick connect. Disconnect one FEL hose at a time and connect the gauge where the hose was and pull the FEL control lever and see what the gauge pressure reads.

Unclebuck257 · Dec 18, 2008

Thanks Texasgreen, I just learned something too from your post and the others about my 05 5740C. I'm sure that will help Inspector with his questions.

dfkrug · Dec 18, 2008

Texasgreen said:
Adjust the bolt inward for more flow and lifting power.

You can increase the hydraulic pressure this way, but not the flow rate.

Also note that most tractors have TWO relief valves that will affect the
FEL performance. One is on the FEL valve as you describe. The other is
the system pressure RV. Not all tractors have FELs, so the system RV
protects the implement pump when using the 3-pt. Since this is most
likely a single pump open center hydraulic system, the RV that is set lowest
of the two (FEL or system) will determine the usable hyd pressure available
to the FEL. I admit I do not know Montanas, but your manual will show
where the system RV is.

Usually the system RVs are set close to spec at the factory, but added
implements like FELs and backhoes are often not set to spec. Checking
any tractor (new or old) for proper pressures is a very good thing to do.