Pump Allis

Leaking hydraulics?

I recently bought a used 1963 Allis Chalmers D17 series 3 tractor. It has a FEL. When I raise the bucket, it slowly comes down at the rate of about 1" per minute. It also doesn't seem to have enough lifting power as I expected it to have for a 54 HP tractor. It's probably safe to say that there is some sort of internal leak somewhere. How do I determine where the leak is? It could be in both the cylinders or perhaps it could be in the pump.

Once I determine the source of the leak, what should my next step be? Can the cylinders or pump be repaired/rebuilt, or should they be replaced?

lift the bucket with a hoist ..one at a time disconnect the rams and plug the ports..then let the weight down on the ram..if it holds the ram is fine.. if it creeps down you have found the trouble..
if both rams seem OK i would rebuild the valve.. very easy
rebuilding rams is so cheap and easy you won't believe it.. as long as the tube is not bent or dented rebuild it..
the pump is a finely machined part ..not rebuildable at home

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