Hello,

I have a similar problem with a Toyota 02-8fgu series 2008.
In the lifting command , sometimes the center free lift cylinder ,is rising for 1-2 cm and stop,... then 2 stage cylinders is rising.
The second problem is , when the free lift center cylinder is rising first , then you stop the command , then when you look careful this cylinder slowly descends.
Maybe the problem is from the same place. the check valve from the cylinder????

If it were just a mechanical advantage,when you have the load in the fork, would not lift the first "free lift" cylinder and the oil would be directed to the other 2, so it must be a condition to keep the pressure in the first cylinder
Regards !
Gabi