MT-85 Travel Lever Issue: Too Much Play and Slow Performance

[MikePhua]

Some MT-85 operators have reported a common issue—despite installing new Heim Joints in the linkage, there is still excessive play in the travel lever, and the machine feels slow. This issue not only affects the precision of operation but can also reduce the overall efficiency of the machine.
Common Causes

1. Heim Joint Installation Issues
   Heim joints are a crucial component in the mechanical linkages, providing a wide range of rotation and stability. Improper or mismatched installation can lead to loose connections, which in turn affects the feel of the travel lever and the maneuverability of the machine.
   
2. Worn or Loose Linkage Components
   Even if new Heim Joints have been installed, other components in the linkage that are worn or loose may still result in excessive play. Commonly worn parts include connection pins, bushings, and bolts.
   
3. Hydraulic System Issues
   The hydraulic system in the MT-85 controls the machine's travel speed. If there are issues with the hydraulic pump, valves, or hoses, it could result in insufficient hydraulic pressure, causing the machine to feel slow and the controls to be sluggish.
   
4. Hydraulic Fluid Issues
   The quality and level of hydraulic fluid are crucial for the proper functioning of the machine. If the hydraulic fluid is dirty or low, it can affect the hydraulic system’s efficiency, causing slow travel and sluggish control lever response.
   
5. Control System Malfunctions
   If there is an issue with the machine's control system, it could cause slow or inconsistent mechanical responses. Problems with the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may lead to inaccurate signal transmission, affecting the machine's speed and operational performance.
   

Solutions

1. Check Heim Joint Installation
   First, ensure that all Heim Joints are correctly installed and compatible with the original components. Check that the joints are tightly secured and that there are no loose or improper parts. Compare with the manufacturer's specifications and installation guidelines to ensure proper installation.
   
2. Inspect Linkage Components
   Inspect all relevant linkage components for wear, looseness, or damage. If any worn or loose parts are found, they should be replaced or reinforced. This includes checking connection pins, bolts, bushings, and other parts.
   
3. Inspect Hydraulic System
   Examine the hydraulic system’s pump, valves, and hoses. Make sure there are no leaks, and that all components are functioning properly. If there is insufficient hydraulic pressure or a fault in the pump, the pump may need to be replaced or valves repaired.
   
4. Check Hydraulic Fluid
   Check the hydraulic fluid level and quality. If the fluid is dirty or the level is low, replace it with fresh fluid and top up the fluid level. Keeping the hydraulic system clean is key to ensuring the machine operates efficiently.
   
5. Check Control System
   Use diagnostic tools to check if the control system is functioning properly. If fault codes or errors are detected, the ECU may need to be diagnosed, and faulty parts might need to be replaced.
   

Conclusion
The excessive play in the MT-85 travel lever and the slow machine performance can stem from multiple sources, including Heim joint installation issues, worn linkage components, hydraulic system problems, or control system malfunctions. By systematically addressing each of these potential causes, you can restore the machine’s performance and improve its operation precision and efficiency.