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The Ford 655A Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) is a widely used machine in construction, farming, and utility industries. It is known for its versatility, durability, and strong performance. However, like all heavy machinery, it can encounter mechanical issues over time, particularly with its hydraulic control systems. One common issue that operators of the Ford 655A experience is problems with the loader control. In this article, we will explore the potential causes of loader control problems, how to troubleshoot them, and best practices for maintaining the system.
Overview of the Ford 655A TLB
The Ford 655A is a mid-sized backhoe loader that combines a powerful engine with a robust hydraulic system. Designed for both digging and lifting, it features a backhoe at the rear and a loader at the front, making it a versatile piece of equipment for a range of tasks such as trenching, loading, and lifting.
Key Specifications:
Common Loader Control Problems
If you are experiencing loader control problems, follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the issue:
The Ford 655A TLB is a reliable and durable machine, but like all heavy equipment, it is prone to issues if not properly maintained. Problems with the loader control system, such as sluggish movements, unresponsive controls, or leaks, can often be traced back to the hydraulic system, worn components, or contamination. By regularly maintaining the hydraulic system, checking fluid levels, and addressing issues promptly, operators can extend the life of their Ford 655A and ensure it continues to perform efficiently on the job site.
Overview of the Ford 655A TLB
The Ford 655A is a mid-sized backhoe loader that combines a powerful engine with a robust hydraulic system. Designed for both digging and lifting, it features a backhoe at the rear and a loader at the front, making it a versatile piece of equipment for a range of tasks such as trenching, loading, and lifting.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 63 horsepower (47 kW) turbocharged diesel engine.
- Operating Weight: Approximately 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg).
- Loader Capacity: The loader can lift materials up to 3,000 lbs (1,360 kg) with ease.
- Hydraulic System: The 655A uses a high-flow hydraulic system that powers the loader, backhoe, and other attachments.
Common Loader Control Problems
- Slow or Jerky Loader Movements:
- One of the most common problems is the loader’s movements becoming slow or jerky. This can be particularly noticeable when lifting or dumping material. Such issues may stem from low hydraulic fluid, air in the hydraulic lines, or worn hydraulic pumps.
- One of the most common problems is the loader’s movements becoming slow or jerky. This can be particularly noticeable when lifting or dumping material. Such issues may stem from low hydraulic fluid, air in the hydraulic lines, or worn hydraulic pumps.
- Unresponsive Controls:
- If the loader's controls become unresponsive or sticky, this could point to an issue with the control valves, such as blockage, damage, or wear. A similar issue could arise if there is an obstruction in the hydraulic lines, or if the control linkage is misaligned.
- If the loader's controls become unresponsive or sticky, this could point to an issue with the control valves, such as blockage, damage, or wear. A similar issue could arise if there is an obstruction in the hydraulic lines, or if the control linkage is misaligned.
- Loader Drift:
- Another problem often encountered is the loader bucket or arms drifting when the controls are released. This is usually a result of leaking hydraulic cylinders, worn seals, or problems with the hydraulic fluid pressure.
- Another problem often encountered is the loader bucket or arms drifting when the controls are released. This is usually a result of leaking hydraulic cylinders, worn seals, or problems with the hydraulic fluid pressure.
- Control Lever Sticking:
- If the control lever feels stiff or is difficult to move, it could indicate contamination in the hydraulic system or malfunctioning control valves. The problem could also arise from damaged or worn components in the control linkage.
- If the control lever feels stiff or is difficult to move, it could indicate contamination in the hydraulic system or malfunctioning control valves. The problem could also arise from damaged or worn components in the control linkage.
- Hydraulic Fluid Issues:
- Low hydraulic fluid levels or degraded fluid can cause poor hydraulic system performance. If the fluid is contaminated, it can lead to blockages or reduced flow, making the loader control sluggish or unresponsive.
- Fluid leaks can also cause pressure loss, affecting the loader’s operation and causing it to fail to lift or move properly.
- Low hydraulic fluid levels or degraded fluid can cause poor hydraulic system performance. If the fluid is contaminated, it can lead to blockages or reduced flow, making the loader control sluggish or unresponsive.
- Faulty Hydraulic Pump:
- The hydraulic pump is responsible for generating the pressure that drives the loader’s movement. If the pump is worn or damaged, it may not produce enough pressure, leading to weak or jerky movements. This issue may also be accompanied by strange noises or excessive heating of the hydraulic fluid.
- The hydraulic pump is responsible for generating the pressure that drives the loader’s movement. If the pump is worn or damaged, it may not produce enough pressure, leading to weak or jerky movements. This issue may also be accompanied by strange noises or excessive heating of the hydraulic fluid.
- Worn Seals or Cylinders:
- Hydraulic cylinders are key to controlling the loader’s arms and bucket. Worn seals can cause fluid leakage, resulting in drift or slow movements. Over time, cylinders can also become damaged or misaligned, leading to control issues.
- Hydraulic cylinders are key to controlling the loader’s arms and bucket. Worn seals can cause fluid leakage, resulting in drift or slow movements. Over time, cylinders can also become damaged or misaligned, leading to control issues.
- Clogged Control Valves:
- The control valves direct the flow of hydraulic fluid to different parts of the loader. If these valves become clogged with debris or dirt, they can prevent the fluid from reaching the loader’s actuators, resulting in unresponsive or slow control.
- The control valves direct the flow of hydraulic fluid to different parts of the loader. If these valves become clogged with debris or dirt, they can prevent the fluid from reaching the loader’s actuators, resulting in unresponsive or slow control.
- Control Linkage Problems:
- The mechanical linkage between the loader control lever and the hydraulic valve can also develop problems. If the linkage is worn, bent, or misaligned, it can prevent the operator from properly controlling the loader. This may result in unresponsive controls or difficulty in operating the loader smoothly.
- The mechanical linkage between the loader control lever and the hydraulic valve can also develop problems. If the linkage is worn, bent, or misaligned, it can prevent the operator from properly controlling the loader. This may result in unresponsive controls or difficulty in operating the loader smoothly.
- Air in the Hydraulic Lines:
- Air trapped in the hydraulic system can lead to spongy or unresponsive controls. This occurs when there are leaks in the hydraulic hoses or fittings, allowing air to enter the system. Bleeding the system can often resolve this issue.
- Air trapped in the hydraulic system can lead to spongy or unresponsive controls. This occurs when there are leaks in the hydraulic hoses or fittings, allowing air to enter the system. Bleeding the system can often resolve this issue.
If you are experiencing loader control problems, follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the issue:
- Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels and Quality:
- Begin by checking the hydraulic fluid levels. If the fluid is low, refill it with the appropriate type of fluid recommended by Ford. Also, inspect the fluid for signs of contamination, such as discoloration or a burnt smell. If the fluid is dirty, replace it with fresh fluid and clean or replace the filter.
- Begin by checking the hydraulic fluid levels. If the fluid is low, refill it with the appropriate type of fluid recommended by Ford. Also, inspect the fluid for signs of contamination, such as discoloration or a burnt smell. If the fluid is dirty, replace it with fresh fluid and clean or replace the filter.
- Inspect for Hydraulic Leaks:
- Look for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks around hoses, cylinders, or seals. Leaking fluid can result in a loss of pressure and cause loader control problems. Tighten loose fittings or replace damaged hoses and seals as needed.
- Look for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks around hoses, cylinders, or seals. Leaking fluid can result in a loss of pressure and cause loader control problems. Tighten loose fittings or replace damaged hoses and seals as needed.
- Check the Hydraulic Pump:
- Inspect the hydraulic pump for wear and damage. If the pump is not generating enough pressure, it may need to be replaced. Also, check the relief valve and ensure that it is functioning correctly.
- Inspect the hydraulic pump for wear and damage. If the pump is not generating enough pressure, it may need to be replaced. Also, check the relief valve and ensure that it is functioning correctly.
- Examine the Control Valves:
- If the loader controls are sluggish or unresponsive, inspect the control valves for dirt or debris. Clean or replace the valves if necessary. Also, check the valve seals for wear and replace them if needed.
- If the loader controls are sluggish or unresponsive, inspect the control valves for dirt or debris. Clean or replace the valves if necessary. Also, check the valve seals for wear and replace them if needed.
- Bleed the Hydraulic System:
- If you suspect air in the hydraulic lines, bleed the system to remove trapped air. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the proper bleeding procedure.
- If you suspect air in the hydraulic lines, bleed the system to remove trapped air. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the proper bleeding procedure.
- Inspect and Adjust the Control Linkage:
- If the control lever feels stiff or unresponsive, inspect the linkage for signs of damage or misalignment. Adjust or replace the components as needed to ensure smooth operation.
- If the control lever feels stiff or unresponsive, inspect the linkage for signs of damage or misalignment. Adjust or replace the components as needed to ensure smooth operation.
- Test the Hydraulic Cylinders:
- Inspect the hydraulic cylinders for any visible damage or leaks. If there is fluid leaking from the seals or if the cylinder rods are bent, the cylinders will need to be rebuilt or replaced.
- Inspect the hydraulic cylinders for any visible damage or leaks. If there is fluid leaking from the seals or if the cylinder rods are bent, the cylinders will need to be rebuilt or replaced.
- Regular Fluid Changes:
- Change the hydraulic fluid at the recommended intervals to prevent contamination and ensure the system operates smoothly.
- Change the hydraulic fluid at the recommended intervals to prevent contamination and ensure the system operates smoothly.
- Frequent Inspections:
- Regularly inspect the hydraulic system for leaks, damage, or wear on hoses, cylinders, and valves. Early detection can prevent more serious issues.
- Regularly inspect the hydraulic system for leaks, damage, or wear on hoses, cylinders, and valves. Early detection can prevent more serious issues.
- Keep the System Clean:
- Avoid contaminating the hydraulic system by using clean filters and keeping the fluid reservoir sealed.
- Avoid contaminating the hydraulic system by using clean filters and keeping the fluid reservoir sealed.
- Lubricate the Control Linkage:
- Regularly lubricate the control linkage to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear on the components.
- Regularly lubricate the control linkage to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear on the components.
The Ford 655A TLB is a reliable and durable machine, but like all heavy equipment, it is prone to issues if not properly maintained. Problems with the loader control system, such as sluggish movements, unresponsive controls, or leaks, can often be traced back to the hydraulic system, worn components, or contamination. By regularly maintaining the hydraulic system, checking fluid levels, and addressing issues promptly, operators can extend the life of their Ford 655A and ensure it continues to perform efficiently on the job site.
