MF 60 Hydraulic Pump Troubles and Solutions

[MikePhua]

The Legacy of the MF 60 Backhoe Loader
The Massey Ferguson 60 backhoe loader was part of a robust line of construction equipment developed during the 1970s and 1980s, when Massey Ferguson sought to expand beyond agricultural machinery into the earthmoving sector. Known for its rugged build and straightforward mechanics, the MF 60 was widely adopted in North America and parts of Europe. Massey Ferguson, originally founded in 1847 in Ontario, Canada, became a global brand through its merger with Ferguson Company in 1953. By the time the MF 60 was introduced, the company had already sold millions of tractors worldwide, and its backhoe loaders were gaining traction among municipal contractors and small construction firms.
Hydraulic Pump Function and Importance
The hydraulic pump in the MF 60 is the heart of its backhoe and loader operations. It converts mechanical energy from the engine into hydraulic pressure, which powers the boom, dipper, bucket, and loader arms. The original pump model often referenced is 70500-9000E, a gear-type hydraulic pump known for its simplicity and reliability.
In technical terms, this pump operates by using rotating gears to draw hydraulic fluid from the reservoir and push it into the system under pressure. This type of pump is classified as a positive displacement pump, meaning it delivers a fixed amount of fluid per rotation, ensuring consistent force output.
Common Issues and Diagnostic Clues
Operators of aging MF 60 units frequently encounter problems such as:

• Loss of hydraulic pressure: Often caused by internal wear in the pump gears or housing.
  
• Slow or jerky movement: May indicate air ingress or cavitation within the pump.
  
• Fluid leakage: Typically due to worn seals or cracked pump casing.
  
• Noisy operation: A sign of gear misalignment or bearing failure.
  

One operator in British Columbia reported that his MF 60’s loader arms would barely lift a full bucket of gravel. After checking the fluid levels and filters, he traced the issue to a failing hydraulic pump that had worn beyond tolerance.
Replacement Challenges and Sourcing
Finding a replacement hydraulic pump for the MF 60 can be difficult due to its age and the discontinuation of many original parts. However, several strategies can help:

• Cross-reference part numbers: The 70500-9000E pump may be compatible with other Massey Ferguson models or aftermarket equivalents.
  
• Consult regional tractor salvage yards: Many maintain inventories of older components.
  
• Use rebuild kits: If the pump housing is intact, internal components like gears and seals can be replaced.
  

Technicians recommend verifying pump compatibility by matching shaft diameter, mounting flange pattern, flow rate (GPM), and operating pressure (PSI). For the MF 60, typical specs include:

• Flow rate: 12–16 GPM
  
• Operating pressure: 2,500–3,000 PSI
  
• Shaft type: keyed or splined, depending on variant
  

Terminology Notes

• GPM (Gallons Per Minute): A measure of fluid flow rate.
  
• PSI (Pounds per Square Inch): Indicates hydraulic pressure.
  
• Cavitation: Formation of vapor bubbles in fluid due to low pressure, damaging pump internals.
  
• Positive displacement pump: A pump that moves a fixed volume of fluid per cycle.
  

Preventive Maintenance and Longevity Tips
To extend the life of the hydraulic pump:

• Use clean, manufacturer-recommended hydraulic fluid.
  
• Replace filters every 250–500 operating hours.
  
• Inspect hoses and fittings for leaks or wear.
  
• Avoid operating the loader at extreme angles that may starve the pump of fluid.
  

A contractor in Alberta shared that his MF 60 ran smoothly for over 20 years thanks to regular fluid changes and seasonal inspections. He emphasized that ignoring minor leaks often leads to major failures.
Industry Anecdotes and Modern Comparisons
In 2012, a small-town municipality in Oregon auctioned off its MF 60 after 30 years of service. The buyer, a local farmer, restored the hydraulic system using a rebuilt pump sourced from a retired MF 202. This kind of cross-model compatibility has kept many vintage machines operational.
Today’s backhoe loaders feature variable displacement piston pumps with electronic controls, offering smoother operation and energy efficiency. However, the simplicity of gear pumps like those in the MF 60 remains appealing for DIY mechanics and rural operators.
Recommendations for Owners
If your MF 60 shows signs of hydraulic pump failure:

• Confirm the issue with pressure testing before replacing.
  
• Source parts through trusted salvage yards or rebuild specialists.
  
• Consider upgrading to a modern equivalent if compatible.
  
• Maintain a log of fluid changes and repairs to track wear trends.
  

The MF 60 may be decades old, but with proper care and strategic sourcing, its hydraulic system can continue to serve reliably. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Massey Ferguson’s engineering legacy and the resilience of gear-driven hydraulics.