B2910 4WD Operation Tip

[PowerMax]

Hello all. Unfortunately, I haven't frequented this site very much, since I purchased my B2910 in 2002. The tractor has been just an awesome workhorse for me and has performed flawlessly.

Anyway, my yard has many steep hills, etc. that require me to often shift into 4WD, so I don't spin the rear tires and tear up the turf. I also need to shift out of 4WD often to maneuver around trees, swingsets, landscaping, house, etc. Again, as you probably well know - a tight turn with the R4 tires (while in 4WD) can spell disaster for a finely groomed yard. Initially, I would power down, engage the clutch (which stops the mower) and shift into and out of 4WD. This was a real pain, wasted a lot of time, and was probably causing extra wear on all mechanical parts involved in this process. I discovered that while still running at PTO rpm (with the mower engaged), I could stop (or even moving very slowly forward) and easily shift into 4WD. Additionally, once I get back to flat ground, I can stop or maybe have to start to back-up slightly, the 4WD lever will very easily slide back into 2WD. This saves a bunch of time and prevents having to change engine RPM's, enagage the clutch and most of all - stopping and restarting the mower deck. It takes a little technique with the hydro pedals, but the 4WD lever will slide very, very easily into and out of 4WD.

Just a tip that works for me, and thought you guys might have an interest. This is free advice, so value accordingly - as I cannot be responsible for your gearboxes. Have a good day, and enjoy your Kubota. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Jeff

 

[fishman]

That's how I do it too! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[Bird]

Yep, I learned the same thing with the B2710; simply stop with my foot on the brake, and shift ranges or in and out of 4WD. If it didn't slip in easily, then ease up on the brake and it would slip right into what I wanted.

 

[theboman]

Ditto on that tip. I've been aiming to pass that along. I learned that tip over time with my B7500.

Another tip. When trailering put the tractor into 4WD when transporting. When in 4WD and you set the parking brake it locks all 4 wheels. My dealer told me this.

 

[frank_f15]

without putting the clutch in? HMMM! i will have to try that /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[PowerMax]

I didn't figure I was the only one that noticed that you can carefully engage the 4WD or range controls without the use of the clutch, but I thought it would be a useful tip for some of the owners. Good to see a lot of the folks I remember are still lurking around the site. I figured Fishman would have retired his wheelbarrow, once he got his FEL. I know my wheelbarrow gets very little use these days. That FEL has been the most useful tool I ever purchased. I was also hoping that Bird was once again a Kubota owner.

Jeff

 

[fishman]

Retire my wheelbarrow? /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif No way!

Actually, every time I think about changing my signature I end up deciding that I've used it so long it should stay the same.

And the real-life inspiration for that picture, my green wheelbarrow, still gets plenty of use. Most of the time by other people, though. I loaned it out recently to a friend who mixed about 150 bags of quickcrete in it. Just recently got it back. Darned tire won't hold air now.

Oh, but I do prefer the FEL! /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

 

[PowerMax]

Just pulling your chain, Fishman. I do like your signature with the wheelbarrow - it has become a classic. Here's another tip- for your wheelbarrow: Locate the puncture hole in the tire and screw in a small machine screw (maybe with a little silicone or tire sealant on the threads). My tire has held air for years using this technique. I couldn't remove the valve stem core on my wheelbarrow tire (seems it is permanent), so this is how I repaired my leak.

Jeff

 

[fishman]

I haven't checked for the leak yet, but I might just give that repair tip a try. Add some more character to it anyway. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif