Ford 3000 hitch won't raise

[Laneman]

Looking at buying a diesel Ford 3000, great price but owner says the hitch won't raise. He said he thinks a piston inside needs new rings and it's not a hard repair. What do y'all say?

 

[Jim Thompson]

It's not too difficult if you're somewhat of a mechanic and have access to a book on the tractor. Before you go in to the lift itself, check the level and condition of the hydraulic fluid. If that is ok, check the valve and the draft (I think that is what it's called) control. Probably be money well spent to get the Ford factory manual if you plan to purchase and keep the tractor. The 3000 is a great tractor and very easy to maintain.

Jim

 

[Soundguy]

Looking at buying a diesel Ford 3000, great price but owner says the hitch won't raise. He said he thinks a piston inside needs new rings and it's not a hard repair. What do y'all say?

the hitch not raising at all is probably something more like a stuck unloading valve vs a worn piston ring set. setill.. you'll be pulling the top cover to investigate either way.

get a service manual.

soundguy

 

[wolc123]

When I had a similar problem with my old 2000, I just added some extra hydraulic fluid. There is an intake filter that is tough to change and will prevent lifting when clogged. The extra fluid (only takes about a gallon or so above the level check plug), bypasses the filter and may allow the hydraulics to lift normally. This is a short term solution that can get you by until winter when there is time to do proper maintenanence and replace the filter. If it still wont lift with an extra gallon of fluid added, then you are looking at a more serious problem.