Fordson Tractor Hydraulics

[Len Calneggia]

My fordson hydraulics are vey sluggish and does not seem to lift to capacity. Anything real heavy stops it and wont lift to any height or not even at all. It has been modified and original 4 cyl ford engine has been replaced with a Thames 6 cyl diesel engine. Has plenty of power on the ground!! not sure of year but has a power take off spool on side at rear of engine for running a belt.
 

[brucehopf]

I had the very same problem, a number of years ago. There is a pan, on the bottom, of the tractor, that has a huge screen, for where the pipe, for the hydraulic pump, pulls the hydraulic fluid from, that is probably plugged.
To access the filter, you need to pull the draw bar, and I think, there is 6, or 8 bolts, to remove, to be able to pull the filter plate.
You will either have to order, a new gasket, or you can get a tube, of sealant, called the Right Stuff, a little pricey, but worth the cost.
What I also did, was pull the top cap, flushed every thing good, with diesel fuel, installed a new return line filter, for the hydraulic system, and filled it to the fill line, of the dip stick, with trans/hydraulic fluid.
Be sure, to drain the hydraulic oil, before you remove, the plate, for the filter. Hope this helps. Bruce.
 

[Len Calneggia]

Thanks Bruce for the advice. I will try your suggestion. Its an Oldie but a goodie and am quite fond of the old girl. Great these forums where are you from? I live in Margaret River Western Australia have a small beef farm but earn most of my income off-farm