JD 4300 Rear Wheel won't spin

jd10 · Jan 31, 2012

While plowing snow a few days ago in 4WD, my 2000 model HST 4300 started dog-tracking as the right rear wheel stopped spinning. I've tried to find similar threads on this issue and I appoligize if this has been answered already.
I've checked the hydro fluid level and it looks good, about half-way up the glass. Does anyone have some pointers in terms of trouble-shooting before I have the dealer take a look at it? Thanks in advance.

beenthere · Jan 31, 2012

:welcome:
You are saying the right wheel just gets dragged along?
That is my translation of "dog-tracking as the right rear stopped spinning".

I'd look for a brake stuck on if the right wheel is locked up.

Also, what can you tell us about your use of the differential lock. Use it, or not?
What can you recall that led up to the "stopped spinning" issue?

jd10 · Jan 31, 2012

Thanks beenthere, I've found this forum to be very helpful in the past.

What I meant by "dog-tracking" is that the tractor was at about a 20deg angle to the line of travel, just to keep it straight. There was nothing unusual prior to the wheel locking, I plowed for about 15 minutes prior to this happening. I never use the differential lock.
Interestingly, when I backed into the barn, the right wheel would spin once I got onto dry concrete.

beenthere · Jan 31, 2012

I'm still confused by what you mean when you use the term "spin".

If I lose traction on ice or snow, then a wheel will "spin". If I have good traction and the tractor is moving forward, then I would say the wheel is "moving" (not spinning). If I apply the brake to one wheel, then I'd say the braked wheel is dragging.

Now I understand when you say the wheel is "locking" which indicates the other wheel is dragging it along while it slides on the ground (causing dog-tracking). When you say the right wheel would "spin" when on concrete, I take it you mean the wheel rotates and doesn't drag (i.e. not locked).

After in the barn, did you try going forward to see if the wheel was free to move again? Did you try to apply the brake to the left wheel to see if that braking would free up the right wheel?

Good to know that the differential lock is not involved.

How about the 4wd ? Any difference whether engaged or not?

Localmotion · Jan 31, 2012

Sounds to me like the wheel may have frozen up (either a build up of snow / ice or the brake) - especially if it then turned OK on dry concrete.

If it happens again, try carfeully appling the diiff - the wheel should turn in unison with the other one, or if for some reason it is locked then it should stall the tractor...

Gate Lavallee · Jan 31, 2012

think your brake in binding on one side,,,,,the side that the wheal is locking. I have somewhat the same tractor but 4400 and I know, read this on a tread here that the input shafts to the brakes inside the rear housing just over rear axial on both side have a tendancy to seize up and its a good idea to lube once in a while....metal shaft and aluminium housing not the best if its not this then open the rear housing and check. Good luck!!!

jd10 · Jan 31, 2012

Ok, I'm guilty. When I said 'spin', I should have said 'rotated' once I got onto concrete and re-gained traction. To be honest with you, once I got in the barn I didn't want to monkey with it until I asked for some help from you guys. I'll try the things you've suggested tonight (just so happens that we have a nice warm spell in MI right now). Thanks for your help and I'll re-post with what I find.

BRBurns · Feb 1, 2012

I have the same tractor too and this winter the brakes have not been releasing properly. Did you use the brakes just before this happened? Follow the rods the brake peddles atcuate back to a lever on each side of your differential. There is a small rod with a spring on the back side of it. Tap it rearword with a mallet and it should release. Luckly it is easy not to use a brake on a HST. I plan on fixing mine once I can get it to my Dad's shop to pull the wheels off.

jd10 · Feb 1, 2012

I'm pretty sure you guys have nailed it. I didn't use the brakes just before that's why I initially ruled them out. Just as you've stated BRBurns, there really isn't the need with the HST.
Last night I re-checked/topped-off the hydro fluid and that tire is definitely binding, it'll move but the Left Rear is doing all the work.
I plan on checking the spring tonight.....if I can find it.

simonds · Feb 5, 2012

I had a similar brake problem on my JD4200. The linkage kept sticking and locking up, I had to reach under and tap it loose. Come to find out there is a grease zerk fitting under the brake pedal and floor on the pedal linkage that I had been missing when greasing the tractor. I make sure to grease it now and haven't had the problem since.