3540 Idle Speed

donmacky · Feb 27, 2018

Do all newer Mahindra tractors have a high rpm at idle? I am used to older tractors that will idle down to allow for safer hook ups to 3 point equipment. Is there any way to idle these engines down or are they required to idle at a higher speed?

oosik · Feb 27, 2018

I sure hope you are talking about some form of "quick connect - hands free" equipment hook ups. I know of NOBODY that recommends manual connection of equipment while the tractor is still running.

I have no idea on the recommended idle speed on your tractor.

Bud Soda · Feb 27, 2018

If it is made by TYM in may be high. I have a TYM 45H and it is set about 900rpm. I don't like it that high and when I ever get a ODBII tool I am going to set it about 700RPM. All my other tractors are around 5 - 600 RMP. I hook up all my equipment while the tractor is idling. Been doing it for over 35 years.

thepumpguysc · Feb 28, 2018

IF this is a computer controlled engine, it probably has to be lowered thru the computer..
IF it has an actual mechanical injection pump?? there IS a low AND a hi idle screw adjustment..
Just follow your throttle linkage down to the engine.. it'll hook up to the throttle assembly.. the screws are there..
UNLESS.. all you have are wires..

burzynsr · Feb 28, 2018

I am probably not the safest person in the world. There is a reason they say to shut it down while hooking up the PTO. I have hooked up stuff that does not need the PTO to operate while the machine is still running (still not the best idea) but never the PTO (gives me the creeps). Idle or full throttle, the results will be the same. In this day and age I am sure that someone can find a picture of the results from getting wrapped up in a PTO shaft. I don't care to look at it. I am fully aware that the machine is not going to just "jump" into gear or PTO operation, just don't see the reason to even let a machine have control over my future. You use your own judgement but the people in the pictures figured they would be safe also. As far as the idle speed just call the dealer and ask them. They should be able to help.

donmacky · Feb 28, 2018

I am sure mine is computer controlled....it is a 2017 model with PST. I normally shut off the engine to hook up, but it is still hard to line up 3 pt implements when backing up with such a high idle speed. I don't have "quick attach" implements.

OLV1071571 · Feb 28, 2018

I have a 1 year old 3540 PST and whether its cold or hot it idles at 1,000 RPM. That is as low as it goes on my tractor.

donmacky · Feb 28, 2018

Mine is about a year old too and idles that high. I don't know if it has to because of the hydraulic system or what, but it sure makes it hard to just "ease" back.
I have a call in to my dealer and when I hear back I will let everyone know. I am hoping the rpm's can be lowered with a computer flash or something

dickfoster · Feb 28, 2018

donmacky said:
Do all newer Mahindra tractors have a high rpm at idle? I am used to older tractors that will idle down to allow for safer hook ups to 3 point equipment. Is there any way to idle these engines down or are they required to idle at a higher speed?

I think it might have something to do with the lack of DPF etc. The owners manual says not to operate mine for extended periods a low RPM.

CincyFlyer · Feb 28, 2018

Bud Soda said:
If it is made by TYM in may be high. I have a TYM 45H and it is set about 900rpm. I don't like it that high and when I ever get a ODBII tool I am going to set it about 700RPM. All my other tractors are around 5 - 600 RMP. I hook up all my equipment while the tractor is idling. Been doing it for over 35 years.

There's likely a reason for the higher RPM, related to emissions equipment. I wouldn't lower it. BTW, on the tractors that use TYM chassis, the engines are Mahindra.