850 dual clutch option

[thomasalva]

I just recently bought an early-model 850 and was wondering if this model ever came with a dual clutch. I was mowing my back field last night and really missed the dual clutch which my old Massey 35 has. On the Massey I can just set the engine RPM (dash lever), engage the PTO and forget about it. It's then easy to slow down at obstructions, corners, whatever using only the first stage and the mower keeps going full speed. With the 850, if I slow down by clutching of course the PTO stops spinning the mower, and when I try to speed up again and the PTO re-engages, the mower has to spin back up.

Maybe I just need more time to get used to the single-stage clutch, but it's not nearly as convenient. Does anyone know if the 850 can be converted to a dual stage? Other than that one issue the tractor did fine.

 

[RoyJackson]

Assuming the parts are available, it'll likely be cost prohibitive.

I looked into converting my old 670 (1991 tractor) to a 2-stage clutch. It was a lot more then just popping another clutch in the housing. The housing itself was different.

I learned to adapt to what I had. Wasn't really a problem with the RFM or cutter (blades don't slow that quickly if you can shift fast)...if you're going to till or use other PTO driven ground engaging implements, you may have to lift them when you shift gears.

 

[beenthere]

jdparts doesn't list a two-stage clutch for the 850.
They are handy to have.

 

[RoyJackson]

jdparts doesn't list a two-stage clutch for the 850.
They are handy to have.

Probably not a bad thing...when I priced the parts for the 670, I gave up when it exceeded 2 thousand bucks...doubt it would have been any cheaper for the 850.

 

[BATTY54]

There is a serial number break around the 16000# (1984 year) the later ones had the two stage clutch. Mine does and I would never get a machine without it again.

The parts are around $2500 for the discs and pressure plate setup, you need to check JD parts site to see if the flywheel and transmission shaft are the same.

 

[thomasalva]

Thanks for all the info. I figured it might not be practical, but it's always good to check. There are features of the 850 which are nice over the old Massey (diff lock, tighter turning radius, smoother hydraulics) but the Massey has the dual-stage clutch, is heavier and more powerful, and has a set of rear remotes I had planned to use for a hydraulic top-link. I'm basically just trying to decide which one to sell (if either). I think the 850 can be retrofitted with the auxiliary remotes, but I haven't checked into that too much yet.

 

[BATTY54]

Try to get a service manual, they are available on cd for a reasonable price. JD remote kits are NLA but it is not that difficult to add using aftermarket parts, there is a plug that needs to be put in to block flow to the 3ph. After that open center and power beyond valve to plumb back to the 3ph. Manual shows it better!

 

[thomasalva]

Good to know it's doable. I just got the tractor a few days ago, but I'll look into getting the manual. Thanks.