Joystick float

[jaybrad]

Update

I finally had a chance to give the FEL a normal test, and it failed.

My initial problem was that the "float" position was not working properly and causing downward pressure to be applied, but now a new problem has emerged: the control will not stay in the float position. It will go into float, but at the first bump (or less), it pops out and the control returns to the neutral position.

Looks like another (warranty) service call.

I'm pretty disappointed, but at the same time know that the dealer will take care of it - and that it is still covered by the 1 year warranty.

Although I still find it very interesting (disturbing) that it seems like several of us are having the same problem.

I'll post the results, once I have them.

Jay

 

[Eagleview]

I have never seen a tractor or machine that the float position is lockable . All the ones i have been around must be held in that position with force , they should then spring back to neutral when the force is relieved .

 

[jaybrad]

I have never seen a tractor or machine that the float position is lockable . All the ones i have been around must be held in that position with force , they should then spring back to neutral when the force is relieved .

Really? On my tractor, the lever does lock into a float position, until it hits a rough spot (which doesn't take much) and *then* it pops into the neutral position.

Maybe I've lost my mind, but it seemed like this past summer it would stay in that locked float position while I was spreading fill.

OTOH, it does seem like summer was a very long time ago, so maybe I'm remembering wrong.

 

[dirtworksequip]

Any machine lever or joystick SHOULD stay in the float position by itself, although a bump will sometimes knock it out. If it won't stay in detent by itself its not working correctly.
Seems like a weak design. Now you need to do a slight redesign yourself by getting a little creative or inventive.
Sincerely, Dirt

 

[Eagleview]

Really? On my tractor, the lever does lock into a float position, until it hits a rough spot (which doesn't take much) and *then* it pops into the neutral position.

Maybe I've lost my mind, but it seemed like this past summer it would stay in that locked float position while I was spreading fill.

OTOH, it does seem like summer was a very long time ago, so maybe I'm remembering wrong.

No it's not your mind , i was just dead wrong about these valves . The machines i have been on are either different or they too were not working .

 

[irvingj]

Yep, sounds familiar-- I've just gotten used to holding the lever in the float position. Most of the time that's not a problem, though it sometimes I have to let go for steering in tight places. Still VERY glad to have that blower, however!

 

[bobzap]

Just my $.02 but my float position stays locked every time I use it. 2310 TLB BTW

 

[irvingj]

Bobzap-- don't suppose you'd be interested in taking the cap off the float control and taking some pics like the ones I had earlier & reposted below? I'd really like to figure out what the difference is between one that works and one that pops out. (Last year mine seemed to stay in OK, or at least I don't remember it popping out so easily.) Thanks-- WBB in NH/irvingj

 

[rtdiggr]

I have the same problem on my machine as well and when I asked the dealer they said the "whole" controler needed replacing. makes me wonder what they would do with my money if I had opeted for them to "replace" it. Its the first time I am not happy about Northwood power and equipment after reading this thread.

It sounds more like a car dealer. Replace only no repair [on parts].

Shane

 

[J_J]

The float operation is another function for the spool being held in position by using a grove in the spool, and a ball and spring. Some may be adjustable, but otherwise, clean the area of any trash or debris, and either replace the ball and spring, or cheat a little and put something over the spring to compress it a little more. Water, rust, ice, dirt are just some things that will interfere with the float position. A bungee cord will work if nothing else.