Loader FEL Problem

ronmueller · Apr 9, 2013

The FEL on my Kubota MX51000 HST started acting up the other day. The FEL doesn't raise unless I lower the 3 point hitch all the way. I know I have a hydraulic leak somewhere on the FEL (I can smell the hydraulic oil) but haven't been able to find it yet. I also noticed the hydraulic oil was below the sight glass, so I added a bunch.

I suspect I may have air in the system. Anyone have a solution to my problem?

Thanks
Ron

ROUSTABOUT · Apr 9, 2013

Air is the system will work itself out. Usually just raise and lower the loader and it will work out. Our skidder has air each time it is started in the morning. I just raise the grapples up and down a few times and then it is good to go. Make sure you didn't put too much oil. Just like the skidder, everything has to be a certain way for the fluid level to be correct. Sometimes the pump may "cavitate" if the level was too low, which means an air bubble is in the pump, so it doesn't pull fluid in or push it out. Could be a check valve on the lift that has a piece of trash in it that may be causing a problem. We had one that acted up, and an o-ring was the problem.

Tx Jim · Apr 10, 2013

If you have to lower 3 pt for loader to operate then it appears 3 pt valve isn't returning to neutral or leaking therefore robbing hyd oil from loader control valve. I think you need to keep a closer inspection of fluid level or the "HST may start acting up"

ronmueller · Apr 12, 2013

Thanks ROUSTABOUT and Tx Jim. I should also add that the FEL will also raise if I tilt the buket either up or down at the same time. So it's just not tied in with the 3pt. I've tried cycling the FEL but it doesn't seem to help. So I guess air isn't the problem. Luckily the HST doesn't appear to be affected.

Tx Jim · Apr 12, 2013

If you have to operate bucket control circuit to get boom to operate then it sounds as if bucket circuit spool is leaking inside valve body. How many hrs are on machine?

dex3361 · Apr 12, 2013

Try to disconnect and reconnect your FEL quick connects. I have seen lots of odd symptoms from partially seated connectors. I know it doesnt sound right but give it a try.