1955 IH 300 utility hydraulics

Jkent

New User
My hydraulics quit working, pump made some nasty squealing noise before the hydraulics quit. I checked the fluid levels all fine and no leaks at any of the cylinders so did the pump go bad? I have pulled it off but is there a way to tell that the pump is really bad? New ones seem to be very pricey and I don't want to replace it if its not the cause of the problem.
 
My thoughts are that if you can turn the pump's input shaft over by hand with the pressure line disconnected that is the first good sign.

Next good sign is that by doing above you are starting to pour out a little fluid from the pressure port as a hyd pump is positive displacement even if turned over slowly.

If above checks OK I would reconnect to tractor power and install a pressure gage on the pressure line to see what you are actually getting. It is also prudent to make sure the pump is not somehow blocked on the suction side, either via clogged filter or screen, etc.
 
Pump does turn freely by hand and some fluid did come out but I do not have a pressure gauge to check pressure, can I take the pump to local implement dealer and would they be able to test it for me?
 
You also mentioned a possible clogged filter or screen I do not have a service manual for this tractor so I am not sure where to find the screen or filter would someone be able to tell me where it is located? The main tank is under the seat and there is a breather under the seat but it appears to be clear but I am not able to find a filter or screen so if someone could tell me where they are it would be great.
 
If you take the pump off and take it to a dealer most likely they are going to tell you they can not test it unless it is on the tractor. A shop that works on hydraulic pumps and cylinders may be able to test it for you.

If you want to do your own repairs on the hydraulic system getting the IH manual will help you a lot. The manual for the 460 - 560 hydraulic system would work too. They are basically the same system.
 
When we had a 300U back in the 1950s and the hydraulic started to squeal, it was time to clean the hydraulic screen filter in the hydraulic reservoir (big cast part) that the seat is resting on.

Becareful very heavy and you can damage filter if the top is not lifted off properly.

Jim
 
Thanks for the info from everyone who responded I will take the top off the tank next and hopefully find the screen filter and clean it. Sure hope that takes care of it guess I will know soon.
Thanks Again.
 
Jkent:

The screen is inside the hydraulic reservoir (what you're calling the "main tank") under the seat. A reasonably strong friend or, better yet, an engine hoist, will be a big help in pulling the cover straight up once it's loose.

Don't be too surprised if the screen is clogged and collapsed due to suction; that happens sometimes.

Mark W. in MI
 
Thanks for the info, I will be sure to have a hoist handy. I will be taking it off tonight after work so hopefully it"s the screen either plugged or collapsed and not the pump.
 
You were right got the cover off tonight and the filter was plugged and collapsed. Now just need to get a new filter and a new cover gasket hopefully NAPA or my local CASE IH dealer has them.
Thanks again
 

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