GC1720 4wd not engaging

FastDaddy66 · Jan 21, 2019

Hello, I have a 2016 GC1720 with about 150 hours on it. While moving gravel around a couple weeks ago I noticed I was spinning my tires so I pressed on the lever to actuate 4wd and it slid in like it normally does however I was still spinning. So I get out of where I was at to harder ground, lift the wheels off the ground and switch into and out of 4wd but the front wheels never spin. Any ideas on where to start investigating this issue would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks

WranglerX · Jan 21, 2019

First thing, is drive shaft spinning when 4WD engaged....... That will tell you where to look next...

Dale

irvingj · Jan 21, 2019

Hope it isn't, but... on my 2310, the 4WD shift fork (inside transmission) broke, from what certainly appeared to be a crappy weld. Part was about $35, labor around $1200. Way out of warranty, of course. 4WD selector lever moved, but there was no tension on it at all, no tactile "click" as it passed into & out of 4WD, if that helps.

If you need more details, send me a PM. Sure hope your problem's simpler.

eubie5 · Jan 21, 2019

Absolutely keep us updated

coldsteelva · Jan 22, 2019

OP: Please confirm that you are referencing the hand controlled 4WD engagement lever and NOT the foot controlled differential lock. I know from looking at my GC1720, that while engaging the 4WD from the handle/lever, that the distance between engaged and not engaged is only about an 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch of travel. Best start is to remove the set screw and slide the dust shield off the front shaft and visualize the shaft while actuating the lever.

FastDaddy66 · Jan 22, 2019

Well, don't I feel really foolish. Thanks coldseelva! It has been a while since I needed 4wd and like an idiot was locking the rear end and expecting the front tires to rotate. Doh! I will go home tonight and verify, but I'm pretty sure this a case of operator error. Thanks again.

coldsteelva · Jan 22, 2019

Foolish would be not seeking out an answer. You did absolutely the right thing. Just come back and let us know.

irvingj · Jan 23, 2019

Good call, coldsteelva! That one phrase that I skipped right over... "so I pressed on the lever" Sure does sound like the diff lock lever.

FastDaddy, very glad you didn't have the same issue I did! It was a nightmare; the whole tractor had to be disassembled, separating the transmission from the front engine section, to get at that stupid little 4WD shift arm located in the transmission rear cover. My tractor was down for 2-3 weeks, IIRC.

And yes, do let us know what you find!