Troubleshooting a 1996 Case 1840 Skid Steer Boom Issue

[MikePhua]

The forum post describes a 1996 Case 1840 skid steer that is experiencing issues with its boom not raising. The operator is seeking advice and suggestions from other users to diagnose and fix the problem. The issue likely involves the hydraulic system, and various possible causes are explored throughout the discussion.
Identifying the Problem: Boom Not Raising
The main symptom described in the forum post is that the boom on the Case 1840 will not lift despite the engine running and hydraulic functions appearing to be operational. The operator mentions that the machine has power, but the hydraulic boom refuses to raise.
Common Causes of Boom Issues in Skid Steers
Several forum members weighed in with potential causes of the issue based on their experiences:

1. Low Hydraulic Fluid: One of the most common causes of hydraulic boom issues is low hydraulic fluid levels. The fluid is essential for the operation of the hydraulic cylinders that lift the boom. Low fluid levels can cause the pump to suck in air, leading to a lack of hydraulic pressure and failure to lift the boom.
   
2. Hydraulic Pump Problems: Another potential cause is a faulty hydraulic pump. If the pump isn’t generating enough pressure, the boom will not lift. This could be due to pump wear, internal damage, or a blockage in the hydraulic system that prevents proper fluid flow.
   
3. Control Valve Malfunction: The control valve that directs hydraulic fluid to the boom cylinders may be malfunctioning. If the valve is stuck or damaged, it could be preventing fluid from reaching the boom, thus preventing it from raising.
   
4. Cylinder Leaks: Leaks in the hydraulic cylinders themselves can cause a loss of pressure, resulting in the boom failing to lift. These leaks can occur in the seals or at the cylinder shaft, where pressure is lost, preventing the boom from lifting properly.
   
5. Relief Valve Issues: The hydraulic relief valve could be stuck or malfunctioning. If the valve isn’t functioning correctly, it may not regulate the hydraulic pressure as intended, which can prevent the boom from lifting or cause erratic behavior in the hydraulic system.
   

How to Diagnose the Issue
Several troubleshooting steps are suggested to identify the root cause of the issue:

1. Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels: The first step is to check the hydraulic fluid to ensure it’s at the correct level. If it’s low, top it up with the recommended fluid and see if that resolves the problem. If the fluid is dirty or contaminated, a fluid change may be necessary.
   
2. Inspect for Leaks: Look for any visible leaks around the hydraulic cylinders, hoses, and control valves. Leaks can often be traced by wiping the area dry and watching for fresh fluid seepage when the system is pressurized.
   
3. Test the Hydraulic Pump: If the fluid levels are correct and there are no obvious leaks, it’s time to test the hydraulic pump. A simple pressure test can determine if the pump is functioning correctly. If the pressure is low, the pump may need to be replaced or repaired.
   
4. Check the Control Valve: Inspect the control valve for proper operation. It’s essential to check if the valve is moving freely and not stuck in a position that prevents fluid flow. If the valve appears damaged, it may need to be replaced.
   
5. Test the Relief Valve: Test the hydraulic relief valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly. If the valve is faulty, it may not regulate pressure properly, which could prevent the boom from lifting.
   

Possible Solutions
If the issue is traced to one of the common causes listed above, the following solutions were recommended:

1. Adding Hydraulic Fluid: If low fluid is the problem, simply adding the correct type of hydraulic fluid should resolve the issue. Be sure to check for leaks afterward to prevent the problem from recurring.
   
2. Replacing the Hydraulic Pump: If the pump is faulty, replacing it with a new or rebuilt pump will restore proper hydraulic pressure, allowing the boom to lift again.
   
3. Replacing Seals or Cylinders: If there are leaks in the hydraulic cylinders, the seals may need to be replaced. In more severe cases, the cylinders themselves might need to be rebuilt or replaced.
   
4. Control Valve Repair or Replacement: If the control valve is damaged or malfunctioning, it will need to be repaired or replaced to restore full hydraulic function.
   
5. Relief Valve Adjustment or Replacement: If the relief valve is not functioning correctly, it may need to be adjusted or replaced to allow the proper hydraulic pressure for boom operation.
   

Conclusion
A 1996 Case 1840 skid steer that won’t raise its boom is likely experiencing a problem within the hydraulic system, with common issues including low hydraulic fluid, a faulty hydraulic pump, a malfunctioning control valve, or leaks in the hydraulic cylinders. Diagnosing the issue involves checking the fluid levels, inspecting for leaks, testing the pump and valves, and replacing any damaged components. By following a systematic troubleshooting approach, operators can identify the cause and apply the appropriate fix to restore the boom's functionality.