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Gehl 4835 Loader Overview
The Gehl 4835 skid steer loader was introduced in the late 1990s as part of Gehl’s compact equipment lineup. Designed for construction, landscaping, and agricultural use, the 4835 featured a robust hydraulic system, mechanical controls, and a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,500 lbs. Powered by a diesel engine and equipped with a two-function joystick or T-bar control, it allowed operators to manage both lift and tilt functions through a spool valve assembly. Gehl, founded in Wisconsin in 1859, became known for its durable compact loaders before merging into the Manitou Group in the 2000s.
Symptoms of Hydraulic Lift Failure
A common issue reported by operators is that the loader arms fail to lift or lower, while the tilt function continues to work normally. This behavior often mimics the machine’s safety lockout mode, where the lift circuit is disabled when the seat switch, safety bar, or parking brake is engaged. However, if tilt remains functional, the issue likely lies elsewhere.
In one case, the operator could hear the hydraulic system attempting to engage the lift function, but the arms remained stationary. This ruled out complete hydraulic failure and pointed toward an electrical or solenoid-related fault.
Safety Interlock System and Diagnostic Clues
The Gehl 4835 uses a multi-point safety interlock system:
Solenoid and Relay Configuration
The hydraulic valve body beneath the cab includes two 12V coil solenoids—one for lift and one for tilt. These are mounted on the spool valve and activated by the control handles. Wires leading to the solenoids are typically white and yellow, and may be routed through relays connected to the ignition switch.
Common failure points include:
Testing and Repair Recommendations
To diagnose the issue:
Replacement solenoids are available from Gehl dealers or aftermarket suppliers. Installation requires removing the coil from the valve body and replacing the O-rings to prevent leaks.
Conclusion
When a Gehl 4835 loader tilts but won’t lift, the issue is often electrical—related to the lift solenoid, its wiring, or associated relays. By systematically testing the safety switches, solenoid voltage, and control circuits, operators can isolate the fault and restore full hydraulic function. With its straightforward design and accessible components, the 4835 remains a serviceable and reliable machine for small-scale operations.
The Gehl 4835 skid steer loader was introduced in the late 1990s as part of Gehl’s compact equipment lineup. Designed for construction, landscaping, and agricultural use, the 4835 featured a robust hydraulic system, mechanical controls, and a rated operating capacity of approximately 1,500 lbs. Powered by a diesel engine and equipped with a two-function joystick or T-bar control, it allowed operators to manage both lift and tilt functions through a spool valve assembly. Gehl, founded in Wisconsin in 1859, became known for its durable compact loaders before merging into the Manitou Group in the 2000s.
Symptoms of Hydraulic Lift Failure
A common issue reported by operators is that the loader arms fail to lift or lower, while the tilt function continues to work normally. This behavior often mimics the machine’s safety lockout mode, where the lift circuit is disabled when the seat switch, safety bar, or parking brake is engaged. However, if tilt remains functional, the issue likely lies elsewhere.
In one case, the operator could hear the hydraulic system attempting to engage the lift function, but the arms remained stationary. This ruled out complete hydraulic failure and pointed toward an electrical or solenoid-related fault.
Safety Interlock System and Diagnostic Clues
The Gehl 4835 uses a multi-point safety interlock system:
- Seat switch: Disables all hydraulic functions when the operator leaves the seat
- Safety bar switch: Disables lift when the bar is raised
- Parking brake switch: Disables both lift and tilt when engaged
Solenoid and Relay Configuration
The hydraulic valve body beneath the cab includes two 12V coil solenoids—one for lift and one for tilt. These are mounted on the spool valve and activated by the control handles. Wires leading to the solenoids are typically white and yellow, and may be routed through relays connected to the ignition switch.
Common failure points include:
- Loose or corroded connectors
- Damaged solenoid coil
- Faulty relay or fuse
- Broken wire near the control linkage
Testing and Repair Recommendations
To diagnose the issue:
- Lift the cab and inspect the valve body
- Trace the wires from the control handle to the solenoids
- Test voltage at the lift solenoid during activation
- Swap solenoids to see if the fault follows the component
- Check relays and fuses near the instrument panel or under the seat
Replacement solenoids are available from Gehl dealers or aftermarket suppliers. Installation requires removing the coil from the valve body and replacing the O-rings to prevent leaks.
Conclusion
When a Gehl 4835 loader tilts but won’t lift, the issue is often electrical—related to the lift solenoid, its wiring, or associated relays. By systematically testing the safety switches, solenoid voltage, and control circuits, operators can isolate the fault and restore full hydraulic function. With its straightforward design and accessible components, the 4835 remains a serviceable and reliable machine for small-scale operations.
