last fall the last time I mounted the MMM I noticed the loader joystick wouldn't return to center. as such, it also robbed hydraulic power for the 3pt.
Fast forward to today I finally decided to dig into it ( no snow this year as yet, so no need to be in a hurry ) also put a new seat on as well.
I figured it was the spring in the control valve had collapsed/rusted and I wasn't far off.
there are 2 cups similar to what you see here, facing each other that holds the spring partially collapsed
moving spool either way the srping will push back and center the spool ( and the stick )
The actual spring, somewhat cleaned up
the failed lower cup
left side is " bucket curl" which is the one that failed, right side is lift lower and "float" the detent for float is inside the lower cup, the spring is in the extension housing
The cups have no drain holes but do have "weep" grooves in the upper edge, which would let water in ( or leaking hyd fluid out ) and they hold water.
I haven't pulled the right side yet, no sense poking the bear before I have parts, I'm sure it's in similar condition.
Hoping I can get spring rebuild kits, Messicks lists them and has a price, so they "should" be available ? I'll check local and Messicks, this has to be a common issue. I can't see having to replace the whole valve because of this .