FEL Controls freezing...How to solve?

[Sniggle]

This is my second winter with this tractor, and I am having the same problem.

When it gets below freezing, my FEL controls freeze. I can usually raise the bucket and tilt the bucket forward, but the lowering and tilt away functions are frozen. If I let the tractor run 10 minutes or so and gently encourage the controls, they will eventually 'thaw out' and work as designed.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[dirtworksequip]

There's your answer.........cold weather requires longer warm up times.

Sincerely,Dirt

 

[jmc]

I wouldn't be surprised if your problem is the same one covered in this thread:

http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/hydraulics/118134-no-float-kub-4-way.html

John

 

[Yankee Clipper]

Sniggle,

The detents on the valve likely have a little water in them that freezes. The housings are located on the end of the valve section and look like long hex heads.
Remove them (watch out for small parts flying out) and clean up the detent sleeve and balls. If the balls are rusty, get new ones. Pack the entire detent assembly in grease - some guys like boat trailer bearing grease but chassis grease works just as well) and reassemble them to the valve.

On some tractors, the detent housings stick vertically so if you could find a plastic cap the right size, that will keep the rain and condensate from accumulating internally.

Good luck!