Ford 445 backhoe no digging power

[Markhodges78]

Hello all again!! after spending much time working on this new to me machine fixing steering issues and fuel issues I have finally got to run the machine. What I have noticed is that the machine has no digging power at the backhoe. Once the bucket contacts the ground I have to move it back and forth to get it to dig then once the bucket is full It doesnt want to pick it up also if I try to push the dirt back in the hole with th the bucket by using the swing it doesnt have the power I can only move a little at a time off of the top by way of swinging . It does not bog the machine it just like Its not trying to do anything. So was just wondering what I should check.

 

[Markhodges78]

Anyone have any Ideas ?

 

[K5lwq]

Have you checked your system pressure? That is always a good place to start.

 

[Markhodges78]

No I have not I do not know what tools are needed for this I have gauges to check transmission pressure on automobiles but nothing for tractor

 

[K5lwq]

If you have a local hydraulic supply company, they will have what you need. Something simple like this will work.



From what I can tell, your system should be producing 2500 PSI with a flow rate of 22 GPM. There might be a adjustable pressure relief valve that is set to low.

 

[CincyFlyer]

Note that using swing to move dirt is prohibited on most backhoes. But get a pressure gauge, and you'll know the story quickly (assuming your hydraulic fluid level is correct, as well.)

 

[Markhodges78]

I checked around today at the tractor supply came up empty I知 going to call Napa auto tomorrow and see what they have

 

[AllDodge]

If the front load works good with weight and all, then you probably have some seals leaking. Agree do get a couple pressure gauges, and when in doubt about how much pressure use a gauge higher then needed

 

[nyone]

I would think the loader has a different pump than the backhoe. Could be something simple as a relief valve stuck open.

Have you changed the hudraulic filter and checked the suction screen?

 

[RickB]

I would think the loader has a different pump than the backhoe. Could be something simple as a relief valve stuck open.

Have you changed the hudraulic filter and checked the suction screen?

Loader and hoe share the same pump. Start with the easy stuff. Quantity and quality of the hydraulic oil. Check for a Clean filter and screen. Proper system relief pressure. Proper pressure at the affected circuit(s). Assuming you have an original Ford backhoe attached to the 445 it should be a digging fool.

 

[nyone]

If thats true then there wouldnt be any point in checking the filter/suction and possibly the relief.

 

[RickB]

If thats true then there wouldnt be any point in checking the filter/suction and possibly the relief.

I fail to see where he says anything about loader function, good or bad. I always want to start with the basic things first. My day is full of guys that want to buy hydraulic pumps before filters and injection pumps before fuel filters and lift pumps. It is nuts. There is a logical path to troubleshooting, or should be.

 

[Markhodges78]

Right now it痴 all down I知 waiting on a steering cylinder to arrive while I wait I will go ahead and replace the hydraulic filter. I have only haves this machine for a short while and I知 not sure when the filter was changed last. I am still looking for a gauge set to check the pressure . I will be back on it as soon as the cylinder gets here

Thanks Mark

 

[AllDodge]

With the loader being strong, I would put my first guess (without testing) on the control valves. There are several O rings and other seals in the valves and they do start leaking over time

 

[Markhodges78]

Ok guys finally got a Hydraulic Pressure Test Kit from eBay so my ? Now is where do I hook it up to test

.ebay.com/itm/Hydraulic-Pressure-Test-Kit-200031-/223341171396?txnId=2197079462012

 

[AllDodge]

Hope others can advise but look on the pump and valve body, see if there are some pipe plugs (maybe 1/8 NPT)

I have a similar kit and had to make up other fittings to fit machinery

If unable to get enough info, try posting on Heavy Equipment Forum

 

[Markhodges78]

anyone ?

 

[Markhodges78]

Tested the pressure at the boom and getting 2150 with the michine idling. So now Im at a loss lol

 

[ddbackhoe]

Tested the pressure at the boom and getting 2150 with the michine idling. So now Im at a loss lol

Move the gauge set to the dipper (crowd) cylinder and then to the bucket cylinder. Each swing cylinder would get checked also. It will take some time, but will be worth it in the end. Any one of the cylinders could be bypassing or you could have a valve section not working correctly. A little piece of trash will get hung up in the weirdest places (usually the one hardest to access)

 

[Markhodges78]

Will do

Thanks