Toolcat 5600 Joystick freely moves back/forth

[mrmurphy003]

I currently work for a Railroad and we use multiple types of heavy machinery all day, one of our machines we need to function is a 2006 (I believe) Toolcat 5600. A newer worker hopped in the Toolcat and didnt know you had to put the arm rest down for the Toolcat Hydraulics to function properly and he forced the joystick forward while the armrest was up, and now ever since the joystick can be pushed forward or backwards without any resistance nor does it operate the front boom.

I have access to all of the tools in the world and a huge maintenance facility, all I am wondering before I tear into this beast is what should I be looking for? I have experience in small engine repair and Locomotive Repair (not that it'll help any) so I feel confident in tearing it apart and throwing it back together I just want to know if anyone has any pointers on what it could be? I'm thinking an issue in the Solenoid but I was hoping for something simple like a linkage but that is too much to ask for....

Thanks,

Mike

 

[SSdoxie]

Mike, The joystick for loader function is hydraulic pilot pressure. Movement of the joystick handle moves valves in the lower portion of the joystick to direct pressure to control valve spools forcing the spool move for desired loader function. There is a solenoid in the joystick but if the solenoid only was broken, I think the servo pistons in the valve would still operate. I'm guessing the connection from the handle to the servo pistons is broken.
You can find a parts break down online @ Bobcat.com >owners>find part numbers. Search model number or serial number.

 

[mrmurphy003]

Thank you for the reply! I just opened up the controller and you are absolutely right, the connecting bolt sheared off leaving the controller to free float. It looks like a terrible weld job with cheap pot metal inside the controller decided to give out, leaving the bolt an opportunity to shear off and ruin our day.

I've decided to leave it to someone else to fix as we have a contract with some 3rd party company we can call for things like this. Less of a headache for me!