450C float function

[DBCSteve]

Just upgraded from a 350B to a 450C. The float setting doesn't seem to engage, and there is a lot of play in the control valve linkage assembly. I plan to go through this assembly and replace parts -- the parts catalog lists a replacement kit for the parts, so I figure this must be a common repair. Will this return float setting function, or is there something else I'm missing? I have the 6405 blade setup.

[DBCSteve]

Solved the float function problem by installing good, used linkage. A real pain, but worth it. The cut-out in the pictures was done by the prior owner to get access to the linkage without removing the valve. The prior owner's repairs were only to one part of the linkage, but four additional parts had extreme wear. The wear was essentially in the cast parts of the linkage, so actual repairs to the parts would be difficult.

New linkage from Deere (without the handle) is $1000. Some of the critical individual parts are only available as part of the linkage set. Got the used linkage for $450. A good reason to have that extra parts dozer!

Here is a link to pictures: http://gallery.me.com/macaulay.steve#100114

Those trick mounting bolts can only be removed with a long thin screwdriver through holes in the outside body of the valve. Still not sure how I figured that out. The JD technical manual says something like "after removing the linkage from the valve body..." -- yea, sure.

Next is undercarriage and rebuilding ripper cylinders. Could have a "new" dozer in a month or two....