Hydraulics problem

[cliffa]

I have a 3830 with a front-end loader. I recently had to have the engine replaced. When the engine died, the loader was at about 4 feet off the ground. During the week or so it sat, it bled down so the bucket was on the ground. I used a jack to push the bucket back up to about 4 feet so I could get the support legs down and get the FEL off.

The problem I'm having is, now that I have my tractor back, the FEL will not raise above that 4' level. I don't know if that's coincidence or not. It also will not push down with any force when the bucket is on the ground, i.e. I can't lift the front end of the tractor.

I've checked the transmission fluid level and that looks fine.

Is there something I damaged by forcing the FEL up? After an $8000 bill for a new engine, I really can't afford to send it back to the shop.

 

[dfkrug]

First thing to check is the QA couplers....make sure they are all fully seated.

What happened to your engine?

 

[cliffa]

Not sure, I think a fallen branch popped up in heavy brush and hooked the radiator hose, pulling it off. Temp gauge never moved (I guess it only works when there's fluid in the system). Anyhow, the engine sounded a little funny and then started belching black smoke. Engine was totally dry.

 

[Ron D.]

I think your correct, if the radiator is empty the sensor is not able to detect the temp of the engine. It works by measuring the temperature of the antifreeze.