4110 FEL Bucket creep

[jmal]

I have a 4110 that the fel bucket gradually creeps down while operating it. It is worse with the pallet forks on and when working in hot weather. The dealer seems to think this is normal but I suspect he just doesn't want to fool with it. Would like to know while it is still under warranty.
jmal

 

[KENB]

Yep. Mine does the same thing. I have brought it in for that problem, they fix it, and it lasts for about 2 days, and then it starts doing it again. Another thing I'm supposed to ignore I guess.

 

[skipmarcy]

I've got close to 1200 hours on mine and it has always done this since new. While bushogging etc. I'll have to raise it up maybe every 20 minutes or so, also the curl does the same thing. Not sure but maybe the load checks in the valve are a little weak. I've been planning to take my springs out and stretch them just a little to see if it helps. One good thing - mine hasn't gotten any worse, it's always been about the same and I've done a tremendous amount of heavy loader work in the last 4 years.

 

[MadReferee]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Not sure but maybe the load checks in the valve are a little weak. I've been planning to take my springs out and stretch them just a little to see if it helps.)</font>

It's not the load checks since they are open when the spool is in neutral.

And I wouldn't go attempting to stretch those springs either as you will really screw up your loader operation.

The function of a load check is to overcome the forces of gravity for a few moments until pressure builds sufficiently to overcome gravity. When a spool is activated, the load check also activates momentarily to keep the load (loader) from dropping since gravity will work faster than the hydraulic fluid. In other words, it takes the jerkyness out of the loader operation. I hope that makes sense to you.

The load check does not prevent the loader or cylinder from leakdown. A pilot operated check valve does that.

 

[KENB]

Ok... then how do you fix it? Is there a way to correct this?

 

[Keith_B]

My bucket curl leaks down a little bit during operation, but not much. It doesn't inconvenience me enough that I am willing to tear into the hydraulics to fix it.

 

[MadReferee]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Ok... then how do you fix it? Is there a way to correct this? )</font>

The easiest way is to install a double pilot operated check valve with a high pilot (cracking) pressure. The higher the better since this will prevent the loader from leaking down due to shock loads.

Unfortunately, leak down is a fact of life for most cylinders and can occur almost anytime during their life cycle. Some leak more than others. The check valve will prevent leak down but at a $$ cost that may or may not be worth it to you personally.

 

[jmal]

Would a stronger spring in the existing one help the problem?
jmal

 

[MadReferee]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Would a stronger spring in the existing one help the problem? )</font>

No, the load check has nothing to do with static leak down.

As I said earlier, the load check is a momentary check valve that activates as soon as the spool is actuated and stays activated for a moment while pressure builds up. This keeps gravity from forcing down the loader arms or bucket until enough pressure has built up to allow for a smooth operation. It basically eliminates jerky loader operation.

 

[rback33]

I would bet that the leak down you are seeing is either spool leakage in the valve or seal leakage in the cylinders. No matter how you slice it, it is most likely with in spec. With cylinders that small it can drop surprisingly fast and still be with in a range one should expect.