Cub Cadet/Yanmar SX3100 slipping out of 4WD unexpectantly

gaheadrick · Mar 11, 2014

Updating those of you who are interested, Yanmar has communicated through my dealer this morning that they will be replacing my SX 3100 tractor with a new SX3100. We only await the timing from Yanmar. Apparently Yanmar believes my current issue is an isolated event given that the replacement spring(the fix) did not resolve the issue and they have all confidence that by replacing my machine with a new machine that I will no longer have a problem coming out of 4wd unexpectedly on my slopes. They will be involving their engineers in evaluating the old machine in an effort to determine exactly what caused this original problem. I applaud my both my dealer and Yanmar for taking good and appropriate action to resolve this issue and stand behind their excellent equipment. I look forward to many more excellent years working with this machine.

Katahdin · Mar 11, 2014

Wow Just Wow. :thumbsup:

scoutcub · Mar 13, 2014

Good for you. And very smart on yanmar s part.....pls keep us posted.

gaheadrick · Mar 13, 2014

scoutcub said:
Good for you. And very smart on yanmar s part.....pls keep us posted.

What a difference a day makes! My dealer has now advised me that Yanmar has changed course and has rescinded their decision to replace the tractor with a new SX3100. Instead, they want to make a buy out stating that this machine is limited to 15 degree slopes. Apparently, they are not confident that a new like machine will solve the issue, hence their current offer. I'm now awaiting word regarding response from Yanmar regarding when they will provide a check and pick up my equipment, tractor and attachments. Stay tuned!

BuilderML · Mar 13, 2014

Well atleast they are trying to make good by you. Can't fault them for that. I am not sure that any tractor is really rated to operate on slopes above 15*. By no means am i saying it can't be done. I think you get into some real safety issues. So lets say Yanmar offers you a fair buy back. Whats next? I would take any future tractors home for the weekend to try them out. Look on the bright side Yanmar could say "the tractor is only rated for up to a 15* slope". Would not be good practice for them to do that but i am sure they could. Hope it all works out for you.:drink: Keep us posted

gaheadrick · Mar 13, 2014

My dealer fully expects that Yanmar will be fair and comprehensive with their buyback plan and is expected to be a full refund for tractor and equipment. As for operating on slopes, my understanding of this standard is operating across a slope at a maximum of 15 degrees, as in mowing, digging etc. The slope of my driveway is 20+ degrees but it is just up and down with no across straddling. You can be sure that I'm doing my homework in order to find the right equipment for my needs, including a really tough and proven transmission; taking one home for a try out is a great idea too. I'm still awaiting details from Yanmar.

Katahdin · Mar 16, 2014

It sounds like lawyers got involved with the tractor exchange. The buyout seems like a fair resolution to an unfortunate set of circumstances.

Question: Did you ever try going down-hill with the rear-wheel differential lock engaged? I'm wondering if that would relieve stress on the front-end since you'd have low gear power transferred to three wheels instead of two.

gaheadrick · Mar 16, 2014

I'm assuming the same scenario regarding any resolution exchange and agree that it is has become an unfortunate situation. I had been completely in agreement on their original statement that they would replace my tractor, whether it was an SX3100 or even an EX3200 with a totally different transmission. As Yanmar had rescinded that position I still await an appropriate reply from Yanmar regarding their latest refund/buyout offer made through the dealer and my acceptance of that offer last Thursday. Meanwhile, my many spring tractor projects are disappointingly on hold. Yanmar will need to either refund, replace the equipment or repair mine(like replace the entire transmission) very soon. Ball is in their hands and I will keep you posted on developments.

Regarding use of the differential lock, I understand your good logic. However, no, I did not use it because I had the brakes locked up with both wheels locked and sliding so I believe that option would likely not have been useful at that time.