8N hydraulic lift problem

I tore it down and found an original 3 steel ring piston and a cylinder with some scores (small ones) in the area of up position. Replaced the piston with the new o-ring piston (had the o-ring and leather backup washer from the gasket kit). Lifted the blade to the top and left it at night, it leaked down about 5" or 6" in an hour or so but the next morning it was still 6" off the ground. I feel had I honed the scores out of the cylinder it would have fixed it all the way. Piston was like $21 at Ford.

I posted on this board and got confirmation that this was a good way to start. I plan to remove the side plate and drain off a little fluid and then look for leaks or fluid squirting from internal areas before I proceed further.

I've noticed that the heavier the implement, the louder the noise. Also when I have a heavy implement on like a heavy disc, and need to back up, it has to be quick or it will leak down before I can change gears and re-engage clutch. Mine also has to be pretty well full throttle with a heavy implement in order to lift properly which I also think indicates the piston assembly.

5 years or more ago, pump repair/reconditioning parts were rather hard to come by, but that has improved very substantially and complete pump rebuild kits are now widely available at reasonable cost. Start by visiting the commercial areas of this site.

That being said, be aware that the least likely source of your problems is the pump itself. The usual failure areas are leaking ram piston/cylinder, leaking check/relief valve, leaking exhaust valve and leaking gaskets. You should also check the control linkage for wear, damage and adjustment before doing anything else. Many a "bad pump" has been fixed by a 5-minute adjustment.

llater,

llamas

While I have an 8N, I'm sure it is basically the same in theory if not in actuality. There are a lot of well versed people who monitor this board who can give good advice should you encounter difficulty.