5740 Clutch Issue

[GreeneState]

Gentlemen,
Have any of you experienced clutch issues on a 5740? What were the causes and what is your recommendation for a solution? My 5740 has got a little over 200 hours on it and last weekend while I was box blading I lost the ability to engage the clutch. I've checked the adjustment in the foot pedal and there's no excessive play. Any thoughts or suggestions? Thanks, GS

 

[Tim C.]

Tell me more about the tractors.

5740 with cab?
Loader?
Last few jobs done with it?

Like all dry clutch tractors, you should have the pedal in only two positions. Engaged and disengaged. Controlled, smooth transitions between these two positions. Using the clutch for speed control on loaders is the major clause of 5740 clutch problems. Most use too high a gear for loading and slip the clutch in the pile and approaching the dumping area. Continued operation in tight cycles leads to excessive heat build up. Results are crystallize clutch disc that will not hold.

Age has nothing to do with destroying a clutch. It can be done in minutes, old or new.

Good news is the clutch is cheaper than most other brands on the market. Bad news is the labor is the same.

Wet clutches are much better for loader work as they are being cooled by the oil in the transmission. Some form of warning light should come on before damage is done to the clutch pack. Bad news here is wet clutches are usually higher at purchase (high end tractors) and repair.

Tim

 

[GreeneState]

Tim,
I have a 5740 ROPS with the ansung loader. I use the unit for typical small family farm stuff, box blading, bush hogging, moving round bales, gravel for the driveway and etc.. (My wife keeps adding to the list since she says I'm just playing anyway!). I agree that slipping a clutch is bad practice and won't deny that it could happen when I'm not paying attention. Slippage is especially easy to do when using the loader but I hope that I don't make it a practice. One of the things I have been reminded of in this little adventure is as you mentioned that the clutch is a dry system and heat is the enemy. Anyway its looks like that all secrets will be revealed when we open up the unit next week. The mechanic will probably tell me I should only be allowed to use our John Deere 317 lawn tractor with the hydrostat!! ouch!
Thanks again for the response, GS

 

[Tim C.]

I forgot, the clutch is covered under the powertrain warranty. So should be limited cost to you. Pick up and delivery only.

Tim

 

[MLES]

"NO excessive play in the clutch pedal." That may sound good to you, but it definitely isn't. You want about an inch of travel before the clutch disengages. You may be able to have it adjusted and it could be taken care of. I've seen clutches go out at 500 hours, and I've seen them go out at 8,000 hours. All depends on how you use it!