Loader Loader hesitant to start moving down

[FogBurn]

Hi All,

I have a kubota l3940, with 450 hours on it. I noticed when using the loader if I bring the loader up to maximum height it seems to "bind" at the top when lowering. When i start to lower the loader nothing moves until I push the joystick a little farther than needed and then the loader will drop the first few inches quite fast.
I greased everything up and inspected everything and it all looks ok. If I stop raising the loader before it hits its max height it will lower without any issue. When the loader is binding up at the top it feels as if the joystick has a bit more resistance than normal to lower.
Anyone had this issue or know what might be causing it? Or where to look first?
Thanks

 

[Dave M7040]

I am guessing your joystick has cables that move the hydraulic valves that control the loader.
It sounds like some adjustment is needed to get them working properly.
I cannot imagine anything mechanical causing the symptoms you describe.
Does your FEL joystick control have a "float" position and are you familiar with how it operates?
Dave M7040

 

[FogBurn]

Thanks for the reply Dave, the loader does have a float position, much further forward than on the joystick than this. The cable to the valve seems to be OK, when the loader is at max height and I push forward (a little not all the way to float) to lower the loader I can here the engine strain a little as if under load. The valve is opening but the loader does not want to move. Then it will come free fast and drop an inch before behaving normal. I will swap lines tonight and see if its a valve issue.

 

[dstig1]

Bent cylinder rods? Fully extend and check with a good quality straight edge, especially toward the end closest to the cylinder given what you describe. Just a guess, and easy to check...