Thanks to a reminder from TRACTORDAWG, I am concerned about possible loss of FEL/BH capability at high altitudes. My mountain properties are about 7700' to 8500' above SL. If I buy a
BX25 I will lose about 25-27% of peak horsepower. I don't care about loss of torque to the wheels. I am concerned about possible loss of lift capability of the FEL or BH.
I am thinking that it will not be a problem to maintain rated engine RPM and thus pump RPM (hydraulic pressure) at high altitudes. Am I right about this?
Any comments will be appreciated.
George
Hello George,
The pump and circuits will not be affected except in the
case of dealing with cold temperatures only.
The fuel pump delivery settings need to be properly set
for the altitude where it is expected to be used.
They have been advancing the injection pump timing
on the small diesels to get around the issue of excess emmisions.
Returning the timing to the "NORMAL rated fuel settings would
solve most if not all the worries you have as diesel engines do
not have the same behavior issues as gas engines at high altitudes
as a metered amount of fuel is pumped into the combustion chamber
WITH the required amount of air AT the sea level pressure if I remember
correctly. This is why I think a small diesel with a turbocharger would
be better if you are really worried about performance.
The hydraulic oil you have in the tractor should be of a
single viscosity only being a ten weight or less.
I would rather you had a small tractor with a turbo charger
to bypass this issue. perhaps you could locate an AGCO ST-40
with a standard turbo and purchase a "Woods" back hoe for it.
AN alternative would be to change the dry air filter to a
Duetz Farr oil bath air filter which in itself would permit
greater airflow but still have excellent filtration to protect
the engine as you still need to run the engine up at a
slightly higher speed to operate.
