Gator 4x2 transmission slip

beenthere · 2025-09-14T12:00:04-0400

'98 4x2 Gator has delay in transmission engaging after sitting overnight. Revving up when in Neutral (5-10 seconds) before engaging in Forward or Reverse solves the issue, whereas engaging immediately is not smooth, and causes sudden engagement jerk in Forward or Reverse.

The tranny oil is "full" on the dip stick. Belt width measures okay according to service manual. 600 hours and started this recently this season.

Appreciate any thoughts ?

dfkrug · 2025-09-14T12:39:50-0400

Now THAT'S a gator. Surprised you are not in FL.

CVT system has a centrifugal clutch. May be failing. I would start there.

bigtiller · 2025-09-14T13:38:22-0400

Have you ever replaced the clutch buttons?

beenthere · 2025-09-14T14:43:56-0400

Have not had to do anything with the CVT. But appreciate the suggestions. Will look at the service tech manual again and see if I detect what the clutch buttons are, and how to replace them. Are they in the centrifugal clutch ?
thanks

Have witnessed an issue over the past couple years that the tranny will not hold back (brake) when going downhill, without me accelerating slightly to gain connection again. I just tolerated it, and didn't think much about it. But may be related to the hesitancy to gain motion.
Figure I should investigate a tranny overhaul, myself or find a knowledgeable mechanic.

dfkrug · 2025-09-14T16:24:21-0400

I tried to squeak a few more hours out of this Gator HPX850i. The UTV had many hours on it and it seemed the centrifugal clutch was failing. It was time for a full CVT rebuild. Common problem and you can get aftermarket parts. Symptoms not exactly like yours.

I tried to buy this machine as-is after it quit completely, but no success. After 2y sitting outside, the owner had it picked up to be fixed by a shop in town. After 6mo, it is still there.

bigtiller · 2025-09-14T22:04:47-0400

beenthere said:
Have not had to do anything with the CVT. But appreciate the suggestions. Will look at the service tech manual again and see if I detect what the clutch buttons are, and how to replace them. Are they in the centrifugal clutch ?
thanks

Have witnessed an issue over the past couple years that the tranny will not hold back (brake) when going downhill, without me accelerating slightly to gain connection again. I just tolerated it, and didn't think much about it. But may be related to the hesitancy to gain motion.
Figure I should investigate a tranny overhaul, myself or find a knowledgeable mechanic.

Yes, they are a wear part of the clutch. I found a few videos but they were 4x6s. This one may help....