Branson 3-point hitch hydraulics

[MalcolmS]

I am new to the forum; so don't really know how to participate but here goes. I have own a Branson 3510i for a few years. Bought it used from a friend. Everything worked fine. A couple of days ago the bush hog came all the way to the up position and has stayed there except when the engine is off. It makes no difference where I position the control lever. Has anyone seen and, hopefully, solved this problem?

 

[ptsg]

There is a knob under the seat. This controls the speed the 3 pt lowers, or if fully closed, it will hold the 3 pt in place. It will still let the raise at full speed, regardless of the position of the knob.

Have you tried working this knob?

 

[MalcolmS]

Yes, I am aware of the speed control and have adjusted it but got no effect. Thanks.

 

[TMGT]

Sounds like something is either stuck on the feedback, or the connection came off. Check for any linkages that might have come off the 3pt rocker arms or back by the valve. I'm not familiar with your model exactly but most position control 3pt on compacts use fairly similar setups.

Does it sound like the tractor hydraulics are loaded up when running with the 3pt all the way up?

 

[MalcolmS]

Yes, the hydraulics are definitely loaded up. Trying to lift the 3-pt when it's already all the way up.

 

[oldnslo]

On my 2400H there is a feedback lever connected to the right lift arm. It has two nuts that you adjust to obtain desired max lift height. If one of the nuts works loose it will not operate correctly. Not sure how yours is made.

Threaded rod in picture

 

[MalcolmS]

The attached photos show what I have. I don't see a detached linkage or anything loose.

 

[ptsg]

I believe it's all done internally on that tractor. It could indeed be the feedback linkage but it will require take the top cover/rockshaft housing out to inspect it.

Although, I was checking some pictures from the service manual and it may have a linkage on the left side of the top link mount. Looking from the rear of the tractor.

 

[TMGT]

Does it have draft control? That would add another area to look onto.

 

[MalcolmS]

There is no draft control.

Is it possible that the speed control has failed in such a way that it remains fully closed regardless of how I turn the knob? I notice that the knob is very difficult to turn when the engine is running.

 

[ptsg]

Could be. Those do like to get stuck since it's not something that usually gets that much use.

 

[oldnslo]

Feed control should only effect drop speed and have nothing to do with raise function.

 

[MalcolmS]

Some responders have said that the speed control valve, if fully closed, would cause the hitch to stay in the up position. Is that incorrect?

 

[TMGT]

You said it drops when turned off and goes up when running?

If so I would think the drop speed knob wouldn't be the issue.

 

[MalcolmS]

It doesn't drop when the engine is turned off. It very gradually goes down over a period of 15 to 20 minutes, like it's leaking down.

 

[TMGT]

How quickly does does it go up after you start it? Does it sound like its loaded up while rising?

 

[MalcolmS]

I believe it's all done internally on that tractor. It could indeed be the feedback linkage but it will require take the top cover/rockshaft housing out to inspect it.

Although, I was checking some pictures from the service manual and it may have a linkage on the left side of the top link mount. Looking from the rear of the tractor.

You were right about it having feedback linkage on the left side of the tractor, looking from the rear. However, there is no missing or loose linkage there. However, there is a limit switch that makes contact as full lift is approached and it looks as if the wire may be broken. I don't know what the limit switch is for except, possibly to indicate max up position. Don't know what happens if the limit isn't made.

 

[MalcolmS]

How quickly does does it go up after you start it? Does it sound like its loaded up while rising?

It doesn't move at all for a few maybe 10 seconds or so. Once it starts moving it comes to full lift in probably 5 seconds.

 

[LouNY]

The 3 point has some feedback linkage, looking at the parts for a 3510h.
In the Branson section of this forum there is a link to most of the service manuals;
Updated list of Service Manual + Part Books

Also here is a pdf of the parts breakdown for a 3510h

 

[MalcolmS]

The PDF you sent looks very much like my model. I don't see the limit switch and still am unsure what it does and, therefore, whether it could have anything to do with my problem.