2020 Kioti CK3510SE - Frozen Hydro Range Selector & Diff Lock Levers

[DieselBound]

I'd scrutinize the clutch pedal(s): or whatever they're called when you have an HST! They are likely to have a switch/sensor that controls whether the range selector and diff lock (and more) are allowed to be operated. I don't think that fluid issue are going to keep one from being able to move the levers, I think it more likely that fluid-related issues would be that the tractor wouldn't move.

 

[panamaguy]

Good afternoon,

First time poster here!

I recently purchased a used Kioti CK3510SE with 240 hours and went through the routine of checking it over. Looked over everything..all but 2 items, and the 2 items are the ones that don't appear to be working... Albeit only one at fault is me for not checking EVERY function on the tractor. Not super familiar with tractors overall, but no stranger to cars. Take that for what you will.

Anyway, the hydro range select lever and the diff lock foot lever appear to be frozen. Took the hydro lever housing off, linkage at the lever appears to be moving. Climbed under the tractor, and it appears they're both frozen to the main hydro housing itself. Not sure if that's what its called, but yeah. Sprayed it with some penetrating lube over night and gave it some light taps with a brass hammer this morning and they're both still frozen solid. I think the tractor was probably left out in the elements for a time as the paint is faded on the hood, and the 4x4 lever was a little stiff at first, but after some lube its moving smoothly again. Hydraulic hoses are still in good condition and not cracking. Under the tractor looks clean (for a working tractor) and rust free.

Any ideas or advice would be appreciated. Want to avoid having to haul it to the dealer but I'm thinking that's what I'm probably going to have to do.

Thanks all,
Noah

If you are lucky enough to live somewhere that sells PB BLASTER get a can. Best stuff in the world. Just spray it a few times and gently work the part

 

[anomad]

My diff lock only engages if one wheel is slipping a little, which I consider normal. Just don't want one wheel spinning at 9000 rpms when you step on it. The diff lock releases after I let up and drive a little.

Changing H-M-L ranges is clunky. I have to nurse it back and forth and spin in neutral frequently to ease it in. Previous owner yanked on that selector like he was starting a chainsaw and the bolts fell out of the linkage after I bought it. Easy repair, just had to find the missing parts and crawl under the tractor. Nothing for a car guy like the OP.

4wd engagement and disengagement is best done by stopping and gently rocking back and forth if it doesn't slip in on the first shot.

Overall, the Kioti doesn't feel as smooth or refined as my Kubota. But it was a good price and every time I get out to water the grass when it is 900 degrees outside I want to jump back in the air conditioned cab.

 

[Mtsoxfan]

My 2025 CK5520 sometimes is difficult going into hydro range. I bump the forward or reverse pedal and it slides in.
Getting in and out of 4x4, wheels need to be straight, helps with little load on it.
Differential lock, PIA, gotta stomp down on it, and start moving before it will lock in. Old NH was same way...

 

[tacticalturnip]

My 2025 CK5520 sometimes is difficult going into hydro range. I bump the forward or reverse pedal and it slides in.
Getting in and out of 4x4, wheels need to be straight, helps with little load on it.
Differential lock, PIA, gotta stomp down on it, and start moving before it will lock in. Old NH was same way...

You summed up my CK2610.