Massey Ferguson M17 – Hydraulic Control ECU or Autotronic 5: Issue With Spool Position Sensor Value

The sensor responsible for monitoring the physical position of the hydraulic spool valve is sending an incorrect, out-of-range, or missing signal to the tractor's control system. This prevents the tractor from accurately determining the position of the spool valve relative to the operator's joystick or linkage command, resulting in slow, weak, or completely dead remote hydraulics.

• 5608
• 5609
• 5610
• 5611
• 5612
• 5613
• 8400 Series

1. 1

   Inspect the hydraulic oil filter and transmission filter for blockages, and ensure the hydraulic oil is not contaminated, as dirty oil can cause the spool valve to stick.

2. 2

   Check the wiring harness and the connector leading to the spool position sensor for corrosion, breaks, or loose connections.

3. 3

   Use the tractor's onboard diagnostic screen or a diagnostic tool (like Metadiag) to view the live 'Value supplied by the spool position sensor' and compare it against the 'Percentage of flow required by the joystick.' If the sensor value does not change smoothly, the sensor or valve is sticking/faulty.

4. 4

   Check for damaged couplers, faulty hoses, or mechanical binding in the spool valve detents.

1. 1

   Relieve Pressure

   Ensure the tractor is turned off, the implement is lowered to the ground, and all hydraulic pressure is relieved from the system.

2. 2

   Locate the Sensor

   Identify the affected spool valve on the rear hydraulic distribution block. The spool position sensor is mounted directly on the valve body.

3. 3

   Remove the Sensor

   Disconnect the electrical harness from the sensor. Remove the retaining bolts holding the sensor to the spool valve housing.

4. 4

   Inspect the Valve Detents

   Check the mechanical detents inside the spool valve. Detents can wear out or break, causing the valve to stick and throw sensor errors.

5. 5

   Replace Components

   Install the new spool position sensor (or replace the detents/valve block if mechanical damage is found).

6. 6

   Recalibrate

   After installing the new sensor, clear the M17 fault code and use the tractor's diagnostic terminal to recalibrate the spool valve limits (minimum/maximum flow values).