valve: fix or replace

I have a 2017 Cub Cadet 25 ton log splitter. The control valve has become so sluggish I can no longer use it. it first started with a loose screw holding the detent cover, which cause a fluid leak. I took it off, got the O ring back in place, and it seemed to be working fine for a few months. No obvious leaks but again, so sluggish it can't be used.

$224 to replace entire valve. Does anyone have suggestions for why it is behaving this way and how I might be able to fix it? other valves seem to be rebuildable - this one does not.

thanks

 

Any pics of the valve?

If you can't get what you have fixed try surplus center. Likely a better price for the valve.

 

Have you tried searching for the valve with a part number?

I did a search for the following and found valves from $200 down to $60... worth a try if you can get something that fits...
“Cub Cadet Log Splitter Valve 918-04740”

 

here is the valve.

 

I did a lot of searching online, and was not fully confident that the ports on the Nortrac valve (Northern Tools $73) would be compatible. I did not want to deal with adaptors or switching the valve around as I had read. I could not find any customer reviews that stated whether these cheaper valves would work with the cub cadet. The EnergyMfg valve looks identical, but when I called them they scared me away.

 

Try this place , they are great to work with .
Log Splitter Valves | Hydraulic Valves | Hydraulics | www.surpluscenter.com

 

Take it apart and look, got nothing to lose plus they are simple to work on. Are you sure that it's the valve itself ? Collapsed suction line, internal screen/ filter issues, broken or loose relief valve spring, low or foamy fluid,pump kaput....lots of choices.

 

Can you further define what you mean by “sluggish”? Is the lever harder to move? Does the ram move slower? Does it not auto return like it is supposed to? I have the same splitter from 2014 with the Honda 160 engine.. wondering if it could be a clogged filter or something with the hydraulic pump or one of the numerous other things Screwloose pointed out...

 

I would suspect plugged screen/filter, bad pump, plugged/bad valve or bad hose (if the hoses show no visible problems) in that order. Maybe the valve before the pump since you are already having problems with it. Since you are going to have to open your system to repair or replace the valve, why not use this opportunity to check screens and/or filter first?

 

X2.