Three point hitch not raising

[Leejohn]

The second picture mentioned looks like a removable screen.

Me too!!! Maybe if he would clean that groove out, that hole part would lift out.

 

[Scott in ME]

The second picture mentioned looks like a removable screen.

It is a screen that is about 5.5" deep. There is a pressed in metal insert (darker in color than surrounding material) that stops it from being removable, however. That metal insert is not removable. This problem with the hitch is really pushing me, largely due to my lack of knowledge regarding hydraulics, so I'm resorting to what seems like common sense. Photos below: First one is lines going to three point hitch piston. I slightly opened both lines where they attach to piston housing with tractor running, one at a time, as I was wondering if fluid was even getting there. Fluid came out of each. The flow did not increase or decrease when the lever was moved to its three different positions. Second photo: Look at the threaded fitting one the very top left of the photo. No line is connected to it. I removed it thinking it might be some type of bleeder. Again, this was with the tractor running. When I first removed it, a tiny, tiny bit of pressure was released. No fluid came out. I again moved the lever through its three position. No pressure or fluid came out. I don't know what else to do, other than pay someone to diagnose the problem, and I'm too proud/stubborn to do that. Thanks again for the tips.

 

[Leejohn]

That last picture looks like the 3pt safety valve. I still think that screen well come out, I can not see why they would put a screen in that could not be cleaned somehow. Make sure that valve is not stuck open.

 

[Scott in ME]

I realized my limits and paid someone to com visit the tractor. Kudos to those who suggested a dirty filtering screen (see below). To remove the steel ring that was holding the screen in place, the very skilled and creative mechanic used heat and reversing pliers. I had never seen the tool before; it's like a pair of snap ring pliers but with teeth like conventonal heavy duty pliers (on the outside). We changed the fluid a few times and it kept coming out frothy. The mechanic suggested changing the seal on the hydraulic pump around the shaft where it goes into the engine. I have that on order. If that doesn't work he suggested inspecting the loader controls or replacing. The bucket still is very reluctant to raise, but when you jiggle the handle back and forth quickly the hitch begins to raise very slowly. Thanks again for all who chimed in. If I replace the controls, I'll likely have a few more questions.