GC2400 Transmission jerky at lower RPMS

[gfuller40]

I have a 2009 GC2400 with about 70 hours on it. I've noticed that at lower RPM (a few hundred below WOT, like 2000) the transmission feels "jerky", almost as if it's slipping - a vibration of sorts. I've checked the oil (via viewing glass in the rear) and it's maybe a little on the low side but still visible. I'm assuming this is not normal? also there have been instances where trying to back up in high range, while buried in snow and the machine would not move, had to rock it back and forth a bit. I also notice it's slower going up hill in reverse as opposed to flat ground (I understand the simple physics here but I feel it should not kill the top end speed) I guess overall I feel it's a bit weak. I'm new to hydro trannies and this may be normal but I'm assuming it is not. Loader seems plenty powerful and fast. I just don't think I should have to run this at WOT to get a smooth ride.

 

[gfuller40]

So I think I've narrowed this down to over paranoia. It seems like the engine just runs a bit rougher at lower RPMs. When I lift the loader as quickly as possible the pump does the same thing - more of a vibration than a jerk. If i lift it slowly there are no issues and it's very smooth. I think it's just lugging the engine a bit. Also if I bring the rpms down to idle or just above idle there are no issues no matter how quickly I go to move the FEL. I think it must just be the RPM range for the 3cly. I have to remind myself this is a tractor, not a BMW.

 

[ray66v]

Keep in mind because it's a 3 cylinder engine. 3 cylinder engines are by nature considered "unbalanced". Even numbers of cylinders can balance each other better.

And, unlike a car, the engine is bolted directly to the frame. So, at certain rpm's there is considerable vibration. Just avoid operating at those rpm's, unless you actually want a massage.

 

[gfuller40]

That's what I had figured, and why I have avoided 3cyl outboard engines in the past. It is certainly defined and noticeable but I guess it's in comparison to running at 2600rpm where it's smooth as can be - hardly sounds like a diesel. I just don't feel like constantly running it at 2600rpm when not needed is a bad thing. What range do you run your 2310 in when moving snow or light gravel? I also don't understand the 1 or 2 instances where the tractor did not move (definitely under load) when in high range. After switching to low it came out of the snow pile more easily. I guess I would just figure it would spin before not moving (and trust me, it does plenty of spinning otherwise). All in all, I love this little tractor.

 

[ray66v]

If my tractor is working, I run it balls to the wall.

The problem you describe with it not moving in the high range, sounds like is normal operation, with a touch of operator error.

Keep in mind, the most power is available with a light touch on the pedal. This is the opposite of what most people think. Once you realize this, you will usually find it performs well in high gear. But, you must have the throttle fully, or nearly fully open.

Be sure not to try and make it work in high gear, with the throttle only partially open. If you hear the engine loose rpm, and bog down, you are "lugging" the engine. Lugging puts lots of stress on your motor, and should always be avoided.

 

[irvingj]

When blowing snow, I generally run around 2000, but I've got the older GC2310….

Unless the snow is really deep or wet, that's enough. If I need to, I'll push it up to the little white mark on the RPM gauge, which I believe is the "rated power/PTO speed" setting, 2200-2300. WBB

 

[gfuller40]

Thanks again for the input guys, I'm definitely guilty of cramming the pedals down, note taken not to do that. I guess it makes sense that you would get more torque, pressure allowing less flow as opposed to more (depressing the pedal all the way down immediately). I'm not mechanically illiterate but Hydro's are completely new to me. I'll take it a little easier on her.

Irving - are those R/C planes?

 

[rjmack]

I usually run mine at 1500-1700 rpm, that's where it seems to run the smoothest, then again, I'm usually working in low range. I'm also a believer that lower rpm will greatly extend the life of the engine as the pistons are putting on miles directly relative to the speed they are traveling. I'm not the least bit afraid of lugging an engine, provided I don't take it down so low that it starts to rattle. diesel engines are made to work, not scream, with the exception of jimmys of course.

if you lug it down to a rattle then there is a good chance there is some galling going on in there somewhere, and I'm not the least bit afraid to pin it wide open when it really needs the momentum.

 

[gfuller40]

Sounds good. I will experiment with using low range and running in the 1500-1700 range. I do know that at idle the tractor barely moves if at all and I'm assuming that is normal.