Bleeding internal hydraulics - MF154

[Gerard Morris]

Thanks to your help on my earlier post, I think that I now know where to get at the pump and filter for my MF154S (Italian made). As this is underneath the sump I foresee a long and messy job just to have a look inside.
My problem arose when I ran the hydraulic oil level too low and the 3 point lift slowed and then stopped. It has been refilled but still does not work. No bad sounds. Might this just be a case of the hydraulics needing bleeding after they ran low ? Would make sense but I cannot think how to bleed them. Do they usually self prime ?
Your help is much appreciated. I have plenty of mechanical experience with the external bits but limited on the internals and am short on time at present so do not want to open everything up unless I really have to.
 

[Masseynut(Australia)]

The Landini/Massey models were a pain to prime even if the washable strainer was removed for cleaning.
I'd suggest to loosen the four small bolts retaining the pressure pipe on the pump, then start the tractor. Run at idle only. This helps prime the pump with no resistance "downstream". Once oil flows from the outlet of the pump, shut off engine, check that the "o" ring is still seated in it's groove on the pipe, and tighten the bolts. Don't run the tractor for anymore than a minute or two while bleeding, as damage may occur from running the pump "dry".
If it still fails to prime, you can either try removing the breather under the seat, and pressurising the transmission case with air from the workshop compressor, or overfilling the rear end with excess oil, draining off after priming the pump,
let us know the outcome,
Evan.
 

[Gerard Morris]

Thanks Evan - very helpful. That should keep me busy over Christmas !