Looking for opinions on how to check the hyd level

KrisHansen · Apr 21, 2004

Hi all!

It occurred to me the other day, when I checked my hyd fuid, it was REALLY full, like WAY over the max line.

when I did my 50 hr service, I had the loader off, which meant that all 4 cylinders were fully extended when I took it off. I also more than likely had the 3PH in the up position. I proceeded to top off the hyd fluid BEFORE I put the loader back on. Naturally, when I re-mounted the loader, all of the fluid from the pistons on the loader dumped their fluid back into the sump, apparently causing it to become overfull.

I pulled out some excess fluid, but I think it's still on the too full side.

Any thoughts?

mahlers · Apr 21, 2004

The only thoughts I have on this are that it's better to be a little bit too full than too low. I wouldn't worry about it too much. The big downside to not purging as much fluid from the cylinders as possible is that you get a couple of gallons of old fluid remaining in the system. I don't think it's really a big deal at the 50 hour point unless you've got water in the system.

PineRidge · Apr 21, 2004

Kris I agree with Mahlers as I don't think the hydraulic level is critical. In this situation more is better than not enough.

Soundguy · Apr 21, 2004

I agree with the others... That max line is only taking into account the tractors internal oil level for its use. A tad overfull makes it so that when in use.. the pump isn't running low.. and you don't want it to run low.. pumps that suck air can cavitate.. Also.. that oil volume is a heat sink for the rear drives if a common sump...

On older ford tractors, the hyd dipstick actually says.. 'Check with all cylinders extended'. As for your 3pt.. doubt it takes more than a cup.. so that isn't a real big issue... the loader cylinders and the hyd lines is where all that extra oil is.

Soundguy