Massey Ferguson A.42.21 – Transmission Control Unit (TCU) or dedicated hydraulic valve control module: External Hydraulic Valve 4 Issue
Issue description
Indicates a potential fault, connection problem, or pressure issue within the 4th external hydraulic remote valve (spool valve) circuit.
Applies to these machines
41 machines- 5710SL
- 5711SL
- 5712SL
- 5713SL
- T4
- 4707
- 4708
- 4709
- 4710
- 5608
- 5609
- 5610
- 5611
- 5612
- 5613
- 7614
- 7615
- 7616
- 7618
- 7619
- 7620
- 7622
- 7624
- 7626
- 7714
- 7715
- 7715S
- 7716
- 7716S
- 7718
- 7718S
- 7719
- 7720
- 7720S
- 7722
- 7722S
- 7724
- 7724S
- 7726
- 7726S
- 8600 Series
Check the cause
Check the hydraulic fluid level and condition (look for dark, burnt, or milky appearance indicating water contamination or loss of viscosity)
Inspect the hydraulic filter for partial blockages that could restrict flow to the system
Perform a system pressure test with a hydraulic gauge to pinpoint whether the issue is isolated to Valve 4, the pump, or a general restriction
Inspect the external hydraulic valve block, fittings, and couplers for slow seeps or leaks that rob the system of pressure
Check the wiring harness and connectors leading to Solenoid Valve 4 for open circuits, short circuits to earth, or short circuits between cables
Repair steps
Fluid and Filter Service
If the hydraulic fluid is degraded or contaminated, drain the system, replace the hydraulic filter, and refill with fresh UTTO fluid.
Unstick the Valve
If the control valve is physically stuck, you can sometimes release it by manually moving the pump control valve lever back and forth.
Electrical Repair
If the diagnostic checks revealed a wiring issue (e.g., a connection problem on the hydraulic valve), repair or replace the damaged wiring harness section leading to the 4th remote valve.
Solenoid Replacement
If the wiring is intact but the valve fails to actuate, the solenoid coil on Valve 4 is likely burnt out. Remove the retaining nut, slide off the old solenoid, and install a new OEM solenoid.
Valve Block Overhaul/Replacement
If the valve chamber is not sealing internally (causing pressure loss or implement dropping), remove the external hydraulic valve assembly. Clean the valve spool, replace the internal O-rings/seals, or replace the entire valve block if it is heavily scored.
Clear Codes
Once the repair is complete, use a compatible Massey Ferguson diagnostic tool to clear the 0A.42.21 code from the system.
Parts you might need
(5)Hydraulic Fluid
UTTO (Universal Tractor Transmission Oil), such as 10W40
Hydraulic Filter
Generic; exact part number depends on the specific tractor model
External Hydraulic Valve / Solenoid Valve 4
3678357M91External Hydraulic Valve Control Assembly / Double Acting Hydraulic Valve Assembly
O-Rings / Seals
195561M1O-ring for hydraulic oil pipe to lift cover
Hydraulic Couplers
8250-4Female body half 1/2" NPT
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