Hydraulic fluid running hot

Hank · #1 01/08/10, 03:38 PM

OK, need some help. Mid 60's International 444 tractor.
While running bushhog in pasture hydraulic fluid got so hot the lines were smoking. Replaced pump, filter and flushed entire system.
Still runs hot. Any ideas.

Hank
http://www.doublemfarmandchuckwagon.webs.com

Old Vet · #2 01/08/10, 04:01 PM

One of Your valve is leaking and it will get hot. Either the one that runs the remote cylinder or the 3 point hitch valve. It is a simple fix once you find out which one is leaking but if it is one on the 3 point hitch you will need a mechanic to help. Try to lower the 3 point hitch and see if that helps.

agmantoo · #3 01/08/10, 06:13 PM

Verify that the lever to the remote valve is not in the wrong position. I think you will find the lever stuck either up or down and not in the center position.

Windy in Kansas · #4 01/08/10, 06:49 PM

I concur, valve issues. Decades ago my dad have a valve set replaced and they used an open or closed set whereas they should have used the opposite. Sure heated up while driving the tractor home.

I might add that the mechanic never received a dime of my business as my dad had to pay for both valve sets and labor instead of the mechanic standing the cost of ordering/installing the wrong one.

Hank · #5 01/09/10, 08:45 AM

Yesterday afternoon (before reading these replies) I did another test.
With tractor sitting still at mid idle, I raised the bush hog and engaged the PTO.
Sitting there the hyd. line on the pressure side got warm in just a few min. but not hot as before. I then turned the steering to almost max to one side. The line very quickly got to hot to hold your hand on. Turned the steering back to center and lowered the bush hog to the ground and waited a few min. Fluid stayed hot, real hot!
Seams the steering pushed it "over the limit" and then it could not cool off without turning it off. Thanks for the tips. Will try to check it out today. Right now it's 17F with a bad windchill.

Hank
http://www.doublemfarmandchuckwagon.webs.com

agmantoo · #6 01/09/10, 11:08 AM

Hank,
From where I am sitting the problem is still coming from the hydraulic pump having to dump its output through a relief valve. A valve that is worn and leaking will not make heat that fast or as much. You are sending high pressure oil through a small opening at a continuous rate creating the heat. When you are not turning the steering part of the pump output is being released through the steering valve. When you turn the steering that release is not available as it is being redirected to do the steering. IMO, you should be able to hear some squealing or unusual sound with just the tractor running.

Hank · #7 01/09/10, 12:38 PM

Thanks, agmantoo. I have not heard any noise but will be checking more later today.

Hank
http://www.doublemfarmandchuckwagon.webs.com

Rocky Fields · #8 01/10/10, 10:36 AM

Hey.

Not a total fix, but if you don't find the culprit, maybe you could put an automotive tranny cooler in the line.

RF

agmantoo · #9 01/10/10, 10:52 AM

Hank

Does the 444 have a remote hydraulic valve? If so verify the control lever location and put it in the center position. Some of the later model IH tractors had a control valve that could easily get hit by the operators foot. What are those valves located underneath the seat that have handles that resemble water valves? Are they set in the correct manner? Did you clean screen #3 shown here
Hydraulic fluid running hot - Shop Talk

Hank · #10 01/11/10, 06:59 PM

Yep, the valves are set correct and the screen/filter has been removed and cleaned.
I am thinking it must be a valve sticking, not allowing the fluid to go through as it should. The fluid gets to the steering first, thus when I turn it this robs the lift of fluid. At least, that is the present "working theory"LOL.

Hank
http://www.doublemfarmandchuckwagon.webs.com