4400HST doesn't want to go - help

[Mike_S]

This issue started 3 years ago and has steadily gotten worse although still intermittent but far more frequent- - with FEL and rear blade attached, tractor starts as dependably as ever, BUT with full engine RPM's and axle in 2nd range as usual, pushing down on forward pedal all the way barely gets tractor moving and engine is pushed pretty hard - tractor moves but has a tough time with small inclines - almost feels like brakes are locked although they are rarely used. There are other times that it runs normal but those times are getting fewer. Road gear is worse of course. Loader works fine, 3 point with rear blade works fine, and belly mower works fine. Reverse is same issue...

It goes to the dealer tomorrow but am curious if anyone else has experience this issue or has any thoughts/opinions?

Thanks

 

[kennyd]

Have you in fact checked the brakes? There are small return springs we'll know for breaking on these models, and the the shafts that go through the rear housing can corrode keeping the brakes applied.

 

[George2615]

How many hours on it and has the hydraulic fluid, filters, screens been replaced.

 

[Egon]

If it rolls downhill in neutral the brakes should not be the problem.

Next check out the HST level and all filters. Do the same for the fuel system.

Does the transmission lever actually move the internal range selector or may it be locked in third range?

Are the forward reverse pedals properly adjusted?

All simple checks to do. The HST filters, as mentioned, are the likely candidate.

 

[Mike_S]

All three axle speeds function normally, hydraulic filter is changed yearly, transmission/hydraulic fluid was changed 3 years ago and is clear, and tractor has 1290 hours on it.

KennyD's idea of corroded brake springs has the greatest potential thus far because it feels like the brakes are applied at least partially. Thanks everyone!!

 

[beenthere]

Interested in what you find out. Does it roll in neutral when on a grade? Do forward and reverse pedals move freely?

 

[George2615]

The transaxle housing has a screen inside. Has that been pulled and cleaned. Just guessing here. They call it a filter. look up your model / hydraulics / transaxle housing and it shows the internal filter.


Parts ADVISOR™

 

[Mike_S]

Neutral?? I forgot there was one (DUH) -- the labels were powerwashed off long ago and muscle memory just automatically puts it into 1,2 or 3 depending on need. Good point about potential brake drag -- wished that I had thought of that and I SHOULD have thought of that.

 

[Mike_S]

If you are referring to the loooong tubular screen - - have not cleaned it for several years (definitely out of sight, out of mind)

 

[Mike_S]

When the tractor was picked up today, I gave the driver a list of things to be checked by the service center at the dealership and mentioned that it appeared to have brake drag -- he went to drive it up the flatbed that was tilted down and stepped hard on the brake and told me that the spring just broke and the right rear tire just locked up -- it had to be winched onto the flatbed. Therefore, I suspect that KennyD's idea is the culprit.

--but thanks to the responses, I WILL, I WILL, I WILL remember to clean the transmission suction screen each time I replace the transmission filter and replace some of the labels that have come off due to powerwashing.

--will reply back when the service department comes up with the official fix

--many thanks to all who responded!!!