Mine is quieter with the clutch in, I think that is normal and nothing to worry about. I have only put about 2 hours on my 235 because it has been cold and raining ever since I got it, but I am liking it so far. I hauled some dirt out of a customer's back yard with the loader and really like how fast the hydraulics are on the loader. Also steers real easy compared to my old tractor. One thing I noticed right away when I drove the tractor is that the rear hydraulic control levers are very short and hard to reach. I solved this by extending the lever about 8 inches. Now it is very comfortable to operate. I don't know how to post pics, but if anyone would like to see the new lever, I could get my son to help me with posting pics.