Float Position LA211

Av8r3400 · Feb 2, 2005

Has anyone had a failure of the float detent on their LA211 FEL 4-way valve? I have a BX2230 with the "new style" 4-way valve.

I just had the valve repaired under warranty to repair the float position not holding. I had been Parking the tractor with the control in the float position. Is this bad, should I not do this?

FEL valve

ByronBob · Feb 2, 2005

If you do a search on the forum for the word float, you'll see this is more common than you think. I had the same problem on my 2230 with 10 hours and it's not been a problem sense. With metal shavings and stuff being new it doesn't take much to have a jam happen.
Don't be too concerned about it. I keep my tractor in float when I park it for the day. Figure the less pressure on the seals and hydraulics would be best.

Malibu · Feb 2, 2005

Had a problem with a LA302 on a 04 B7500. Kept popping out of float especially when running the engine slow (under 2000 rpm). Dealer tried replacing the 4 way valve, did not fix. Dealer then shortened the control lever by about 3". End of problem.

Appears the detent was not strong enough to hold the lever in position against the vibration generated by the engine at slow RPM.

Don't notice any difference operating it due to the shorter lever.

Pks · Feb 2, 2005

If there is slop in the way the joystick is mounted, so that it rattles, then the motion can pop the valve out of the float position.

I added nylon washers in ALL the pivot spaces where the joystick attaches to the spool levers. That made all the difference in the world. The stick doesn't rattle any more so it stays in float and it's quieter. I was amazed at how loud that joystick could get.

Also, about twice a year, I remove the detent end cap on the valve and clean it out. Once clean, it gets a spritz of WD40. Several years ago I used grease on the detent. That made things worse. Just keep it clean and free of rust.