Does the 3pt hyd lock affect loader performance?

GRADE_8 · May 20, 2005

I've noticed on my B7610 that there is a difference in the loader performance when the 3pt speed/lock knob is fully opened vs closed. Anyone experienced this?

This doesn't make much sense, the loader is plumbed on its own circuit, separate from the 3pt ram. Just wondering if its my imagination.

btolle · May 20, 2005

I have never noticed any difference in the loader with the 3 PH knob locked and I lock it fairly often to stop the box blade from drifting down.

Bill Tolle

v8dave · May 21, 2005

What do you mean by loader performance? I may have a similar problem.

Previously I moved some boulders with the front loader. I went to move them again and I can no longer pick them up.

After I fiddled with the 3pt speed knob when the tractor was new, I've ignored the knob and I've never intentionally moved it again. However, I had the dealer service the tractor and it may have been moved then. I'm wondering if there may be a tie in now that I've read your post. I may go out and try again while fiddling with this valve.

MadReferee · May 21, 2005

Changing the setting on the 3pt lowering speed adjusting valve should have no effect on loader operation. The valve simply reduces the amount of oil flowing out of the 3pt hydraulic cylinder when the cylinder attempts to lower, thus either slowing or holding the 3pt in place. It's actually located on the "work port" side of the 3pt valve which isolates it from the main hydraulic loop. This is clearly shown in the WSM hydraulic diagram.

Now, if your 3pt lever is stuck open or a little bit open, you could be causing the system to go into relief. I would check to make sure that your 3pt lever is fully closing.

GRADE_8 · May 21, 2005

Madreferee,

I wish i had the wsm to reference. I think that i'll go out and test the machine, heres my test:
With the knob fully open, and the 3pt lever returned to neutural, i'll try to raise the front end with the loader. then i'll play with the 3pt speed/lock knob and the lever and see if performance is hindered.

MadReferee · May 21, 2005

If it effects your performance at all then you may have a defective 3pt valve. The adjustment is at the piston end of the cylinder not at the valve and prevents oil from exhausting from the cylinder. If the 3pt lever is slightly open (ie. not closing tight) it may cause the system to go into relief as it tries to push oil against the piston which now can't exhaust oil.

Make sure the 3pt lever is returning all the way to neutral.

WayneW · May 23, 2005

I had a similar problem with my 7610. My front loader was a little sluggish. Especially rolling and dumping the bucket. Called the dealer and he said to check the 3 pt. Turns out that if the rear 3pt hitch is all the way UP, the loader will be sluggish, and a little weak. Drop the 3pt hitch (using the 1/4 inching mode) about 1" and you should see your loader performance improve. Mine did. Now I just have to remember to check for that.