Float not working - front end loader twisted

[juliabell]

We installed the front end loader today to get ready for snow plowing. Then we used it to move some dirt around the property. We pushed the blade of the bucket into a dirt pile that was grown over with grass - but nothing terribly hard or dense.

When we finished, we noticed that the "float" function isn't working and the loader is very twisted. (It was twisted a little before this - we ran into a tree a few years ago and they were only able to straighten it out part of the way - but never this much.)

I've seen some trouble-shooting recommendations for the float that we will dig into, but any suggestions for where to start looking for the cause of the twist or most likely causes of problems with the float (especially after just installing the loader - I'm wondering if something wasn't lined up correctly when we put it on - we didn't notice anything unusual, but maybe we missed something).

Thanks.

LA 210-1 front end loader
Tractor BX-23

?

 

[NCL4701]

If you think there’s a possibility it is somehow misaligned due to not being installed correctly, side view pics of both sides would be extremely helpful. Can’t see the loader mounts from the front.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

EWWWWW, that doesn't look good!
Yes pics of the mounts will be needed.

 

[juliabell]

thanks. I'll get some pictures.

 

[JailBreak Your Tractor]

Sorry to see that. I'd park it until you get those mount pics, because a twisted loader puts all the load on one side. Two things I'd check first since it happened right after install: 1) Make sure both mounting pins and locking levers are fully engaged on both sides. If one side is sitting cocked on the mount, pushing into a pile will twist it more and can tweak the frame. 2) For the float, push every quick coupler back on and make sure it's fully seated. One that looks connected but isn't fully open can stop oil from moving freely, and float is one of the first things to quit. Then make sure the lever actually goes all the way into the float detent. If the couplers and lever check out and it still won't float, look at the detent on the valve itself. What model tractor and loader is it?

 

[juliabell]

LA 210-1 front end loader
Tractor BX-23