Ford 3000 very slow hydraulics

[Mbbuk]

My Ford 3000 which I have owned for nine years appears to have a major hydraulic issue and unfortunately I'm not overly mechanically minded. I am in the UK and the tractor is 30-40 years old I would guess. I cannot lift the three point linkage at all in the winter and it will only lift in hot weather after the tractor has been running for several hours. I am desperate for some help and ideas!

 

[Zebrafive]

I would start by changing the fluid and filter(s) of the hydraulic system

 

[eastexan]

Sounds like you have a restriction in the hydraulic system.
The fluid has to get thinner via heat, in order to flow past it.

First thing I would do is check the pickup screen.

 

[Mbbuk]

How do I do that? Is it a big job?

 

[J_J]

Install a hyd gage in the system and see where and if you have pressure. Activate all the valves when checking. If you don't have a manual, track down and draw out the flow path if possible. Your pump might be worn out. Is the fluid milky looking? Have you ever changed the fluid and filter?

 

[Mbbuk]

To be honest, no. I have had the tractor nine years and the hydraulics have never worked properly. They used to be better than they are now. I used to have a rollermower that I needed to lift but have been using trail a long mowers for years now. I don't even know where to look to check the fluid level. I'm very sorry, I'm a complete novice! Thanks so much for any and all your help