FORD 1720 Hydraulic Problem

LocoNC · Jun 26, 2013

I have a 95 Ford 1720 on which I recently mounted a Woods Du Al 155 FEL. The DU Al was in rough shape (rusted bucket/hydro fittings and bad hoses). I disassambled the cylinders, cut the cylinder ports off and MIG welded new ones back on but had a few leaks... Second time my son in law used TIG and no more leaks. First time the FEL was connected to the tractor diverter block (IN, OUT, Power Beyond and control screw) with the IN and OUT from FEL control in reverse. Or to be specific IN to the IN and OUT to OUT... it obviously did not work correctly. Once the error was diagnosed and switched to the correct position (FEL OUT to diverter IN and FEL IN to diverter OUT) it works like a charm. Used FEL a few times and then switched the diverter block control screw to 3PH to operate a box blade and I don't have 3PH. I have read OldBulldogger's "Ford 1720 3 point lift problem. I need your HELP!" thread (Amazed at the knowledge and helpful responses provided) but I am still wondering what I messed up by reversing the connections. If the diverter control screw is switched to front position the FEL works great, plenty of hydro power. Switch it to the rear and the only way to get lift is to rev rpms 2000+ and then it VERY Very slowly lifts about a few inches. If I manually assist the lift it will remain up and does not drop, even after sitting all night with a box blade connected. It will also not drop if I shut the knob under the seat and then lower the 3PH lever. I plan to get a pressure gauge to check pressure as outlined in OldBulldogger's thread as soon as I get a chance to head into town. In the meantime if anyone has any similar experience or advice (other than don't connect the the lines in reverse you knucklehead!)

I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks

bulldogshotgun · Jun 27, 2013

does your loader valve have 3 lines to connect to the tractor or 2?

LocoNC · Jun 27, 2013

It has three lines.

bulldogshotgun · Jun 29, 2013

if it has three lines you shouldn't have to switch the control valve to get the 3PH to work, it should be working off the PB port. (while diverter is in front position) try that first, if it doesn't work try raising the 3PH at the same time as raising or lowering the FEL, if it works then, you have the PB and tank ports reversed.

LocoNC · Jun 29, 2013

bulldogshotgun said:
if it has three lines you shouldn't have to switch the control valve to get the 3PH to work, it should be working off the PB port. (while diverter is in front position) try that first, if it doesn't work try raising the 3PH at the same time as raising or lowering the FEL, if it works then, you have the PB and tank ports reversed.

:thumbsup: I tried 3PH while raising the FEL and it worked. Switched the PB and tank port and got a full days work. Thank you very much bulldogshotgun. BTW I purchased this tractor in Eaton, OH on ebay in 1999 with five attachments. Heck of a drive from NC coast... but worth every mile and $.

bulldogshotgun · Jun 30, 2013

Small World, i live about 20 miles north of Eaton. and two weeks from now, i will be on the NC coast my brother is stationed at Camp Lejeune. gonna go visit him.