This 382-page Versatile 256 Service Manual (OEM #40025631) breaks down every system on the 1984-1989 256, 276, and 276 II Bidirectional Tractors, from hydrostatic drive to three-point hitch. You get full wiring diagrams for tracing electrical faults without guessing, hydraulic schematics covering the drive and implement circuits, and a dedicated troubleshooting section that walks you through Drivetrain and Environmental System diagnosis, including the A/C refrigerant charging procedure. Set the PTO clutch adjustment ring pull to 68 N-m (50 ft. lbs.) and torque the universal yoke lock washer and cap screw to 90 N-m (65 ft. lbs.), straight from the factory data, not a forum thread. Your Bidirectional won't fix itself while you dig through three different parts books. Bookmarked by system, so you jump straight to Hydraulics or Electrical and get back under the tractor.
What's Inside This Versatile 256, 276, 276 II Manual
| System | Pages | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Specifications and Data | 7-20 | Accessories, Air Cleaner, Axles, Brakes, Cab, Capacities, Cooling System, Dimensions |
| Engine Systems | 21-54 | Fuel System, Cooling System, Air Intake and Exhaust System, Lubrication System |
| Transfer Gearbox Repair | 55-76 | Transfer Gearbox, PTO Clutch, Engine End PTO Drop Box, Cab End Two-Speed PTO Drop Box |
| Drivetrain | 77-130 | Transmission, Splitter Box, Final Drive Drop Box, Axle Seals, Shifter Forks, Cam Plate |
| Hydrostatic System | 131-220 | Hydrostatic Pump, Hydrostatic Motor, Charge Pump, Charge Pressure, Swashplate, Servo Control, Valve Block, Relief Valve, Trunnion Bearings, Pump Housing, Displacement Control |
| Hydraulics | 221-272 | Hydraulic Pump, Steering System, Steering Valve, Implement Control Valve, Meter (Gerotor) |
| Three-Point Hitch | 273-320 | Rockshaft, Lift Arms, Lift Cylinders, Lift Links, Draft Arms, Top Link, Hydraulic Components, Electrical Components |
| Electrical System | 321-346 | Alternator, Batteries, Starter Motor, Cold Start Circuit, Engine Shutdown Circuit, Indication and Warning Circuits, Lighting Circuit, Windshield Wiper Motor |
| Environmental Systems | 347-366 | Refrigerant Charge Volume, Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator/Heater Core, Expansion Valve Replacement, Charging the System |
| Structures | 367-374 | Articulation Pivot Pin, Articulation Bushings, Oscillation Bushing, Engine End Oscillation Cradle, Cab |
Quick Reference Specifications
| Specification | Value | Page |
|---|---|---|
| Articulation lock | Engage articulation lock. | p. 4 |
| PTO clutch | Always disengage the PTO clutch | p. 4 |
| Three-point hitch | Always disengage the PTO clutch and three-point hitch. | p. 4 |
| PTO clutch adjustment ring pull | 68 N·m (50 ft. lbs.) | p. 67 |
| Universal yoke lock washer and cap screw torque | 90 N·m (65 ft. lbs.) | p. 68 |
| Low pressure-flow compensator reset specification | 2067 kPa (300 psi) | p. 233 |
| Inoperative 3-point hitch correction | Refer to 3-point hitch section. | p. 232 |
| Hydraulic system pressure tolerance | ±10 percent | p. 287 |
| Hydraulic system pressure specification | 2.0 mPa (2 900 psi) | p. 287 |
| Articulation pivot pin nuts | 100 ft. lbs. (135 N·m) | p. 367 |
| Axles, Differentials Oil Capacity (each) | 2.3 L | p. 7 |
| Dropbox Ratio | 3.18:1 | p. 7 |
Versatile 256, 276, 276 II Common Problems This Manual Covers
Versatile 276 bidirectional tractor gear grinding during operation and PTO clutch slipping under load p. 67
Check the PTO clutch adjustment on page 67. Verify the adjustment ring pull measures exactly 68 N·m (50 ft. lbs.). Readjust the linkage if it falls outside this specification. Test the tractor under load, then recheck the adjustment after 50 hours of operation as outlined on page 68.
Manual Section: Transfer Gearbox RepairThree-point hitch will not raise or lower and does not move in auto mode p. 273
Warm the hydraulic oil to a normal operating temperature of 66°C (150°F) for accurate testing as noted on page 314. Inspect the linkage and verify the hitch cylinder position measures 10 mm (0.375 in) from full extension on page 286. Tighten top link mounts to 75 Nm (55 lbf ft).
Manual Section: Three-Point HitchEngine turns over slowly, runs poorly, or shows low oil pressure at idle p. 23
Test the engine oil pressure at idle using a mechanical gauge. Verify the minimum allowable idle pressure for the Cummins engine reaches 69 kPa as specified on page 9. If pressure drops below this limit, inspect the lubrication system following the troubleshooting procedures on page 23.
Manual Section: Engine Systems TroubleshootingHydraulic system response sluggish, steering wander, and steering feels spongy during operation p. 233
Measure the hydraulic system pressure at the test port. Adjust the low pressure-flow compensator to a reset specification of 2067 kPa (300 psi) as detailed on page 233. Inspect the main pump case drain if sluggish response persists, replacing filters and checking fluid levels before retesting.
Manual Section: HydraulicsFrequently Asked Questions
How to reset the brake fluid system on Versatile 256/276?
To reset the brake fluid system, replace the brake fluid in the master cylinder (M, Figures 4-33 and 4-34) located under the cab floor. Then, bleed the air from the caliper cylinder using the bleed ports (P, Figure 4-30). Ensure the hydraulic brake pedal is firm when pressed.
How to reset bidirectional console rotation on Versatile 276?
If the tractor articulates in the direction opposite to steering wheel rotation, you should shut down the engine and reverse the steering hose connections on the rotating base. This procedure helps correct console rotation issues and is part of the installation process for the hydraulic rotating base.
What are the torque specifications for PTO driveshaft universal bolts on Versatile 256?
For the PTO driveshaft, the journal strap capscrews should be torqued to 35 N.m (26 lbf ft). When reinstalling the engine end universal and the cab end PTO driveline, the universal strap retaining bolts should be tightened to 38 N.m (28 ft. lbs.) torque.
What are the replacement specifications for the brake master cylinder's internal components?
To repair the master brake cylinder, remove the boot (B, Figure 4-33) and disassemble the piston assembly. Replace the pumping cup (C) along with the cup protector. Then, reinstall the piston assembly in the cylinder, fill with brake fluid, and bleed the air from the system.
How quickly can I access this Versatile 256, 276, 276 II, Bidirectional?
Immediate download of the complete 382-page searchable Service Manual. Access it on any device, from a laptop at your desk to a phone in the field.
Is this Versatile 256, 276, 276 II, Bidirectional Tractors manual printable?
Zero restrictions. The PDF is DRM-free. Print whatever sections you need to take out to the shop. Standard letter or A4 paper works.
Are hydraulic system diagrams in this Versatile 256, 276, 276 II?
Yes, this Versatile 256, 276, 276 II, Bidirectional Tractors Service Manual includes hydraulic system diagrams, circuit schematics, and component specifications.












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