[Bor0050]

My 135 has been heavily modified (see pic in the thread of MF pics) with a commercial FEL and a home built backhoe. When I got it there were lots of leaks in the hoses and the fittings, many of which were just plumbing fittings. After replacing the hoses and putting in proper hydraulic fittings, the external leaks have disappeared. My problem now is that several of the functions do not hold under load. Eg. If I leave the outriggers in the up position they will slowly collapse to the ground over a few hours. Same with the bucket tilt. I would like to fix these problems but don't know how to determine if the problem is in the control levers or the internal seals on the cylinders. Any thoughts are much appreciated.

 

[TUDOR]

Cylinder seals are the higher probability. Chrome plated valve spools and well lubed cast iron, not so much.

 

[Bor0050]

Thanks. My old farmer neighbour said pretty much the same thing. I guess there is no easy way to test if it is indeed the cylinder?

 

[TUDOR]

Put a heavy load in the bucket with the bucket on the ground and disconnect the rod end hose of the cylinder and apply lifting pressure. Observe the flow of fluid from the open fitting. There should not be much flow if the seals are good. The bucket should raise and hold. Don't lift it more than a couple of inches or you'll have a mess of hydraulic fluid. Some fluid will be pushed out by the extending rod. What comes after the valve is centered is what counts.

If the seals are badly worn, the bucket will be back on the ground in short order.

 

[Bor0050]

Great idea - thanks.