I recently lost all hydraulics on my 3240 model mower. The fluid level was low, so i filled to the full mark, but nothing. Does one hydraulic pump control the deck lift, the power steering, and the transmisson?
hydraulic failure on 3240 model mower
- Thread starter bromow
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gfp55
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From the service manuals that I have the answer is yes. The manual says to check the system you have to use the steering circuit, so yes the trans, lift, steering and aux are one circuit. You will need to remove the air from the system (purge) for it to function right if it isn't damaged, over heated from lack of fluid. To purge the system; raise rear wheels off the floor using jack stands making sure rear tires are just off the floor, about one inch. Block front wheels so tractor will not slip and fall off stands. Start engine and run at idle speed and repeat opening and closing bypass valve ( towing ) and alternately press the forward then the reverse paddles/lever for about one minute. When wheels start to move instantly increase engine speed. Use the paddles forward and reverse to make quick starts and panic stops for about one minute. Turn off engine and remove tractor from stands. Check fluid level. Add if needed. Start engine, turn steering wheel back and forth for one minute, drive tractor around a little while turning the steering wheel back and forth and raise and lower the deck a few time also. Park tractor on a level spot and check fluid level again, add if needed. You should be good to go. After you have used your tractor for some time, pack it on a level spot and check the fluid again, add if needed. If you check you fluid level in about 2 weeks and the level is low you may want to look for a leak to see where the fluid maybe going. I hope you get your cub working again.
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There can be many reasons for the hydraulic system to fail. Some are explained here Hydraulic Pump System Failure Analysis | Rush Hydraulic Pneumatic, maybe one of these is a reason for your pump to fail.