JD 790 Clutch Pedal Linkage Adjustment

svohio · Jul 14, 2025

My question is, "Can I / Should I adjust the clutch pedal linkage range if the range between the PTO and Transmission engagement/disengagement is too large?"

My Problem:
So here is what I mean about my question. In a previous post I was having an issue with the PTO clutch not disengaging. What I think was happening is that the clutch pedal was reaching the pedal stopper before the full range of motion to disengage the PTO clutch could be reached. I was able to adjust the pedal linkage and get the PTO clutch to engage and disengage smoothly by the time of hitting the pedal stopper. However the transmission engagement/disengagement range would only occur at about 1/4 - 1/2" from the top with really no free play. The result is, if I adjust the pedal linkage engagement/disengagement for one clutch, I lose the other and visa-versa. And I'm afraid of causing the transmission clutch to potentially burn up. My conclusion is that the range between the engagement/disengagement of each clutch is too far apart.

My "Potential" Solution:
So, would it makes sense to reduce the range of engagement/disengagement? If so, would it make sense to disconnect the pedal from the pedal linkage, adjust the linkage a couple turns, reconnect it to the pedal? The service manual doesn't really cover this scenario and I wanted to make sure from those better experienced if this reasonable or an "absolute do not do."

I really don't think there is any issue with the PTO or Transmission clutches. I cannot feel or observe (or smell) any issue. Independently, they engage and disengage pretty smoothly. I really just feel the range is just too far apart in the pedal motion.

Let me know your thoughts! Below is a drawing with the pedal linkage, a picture of the pedal and stopper, and a picture where the linkage and pedal connect.

greenie · Jul 16, 2025

I have the same tractor with the same issue. I have not tried adjusting the rod to the rear. Seems like it might work. If you try adjusting that could you post the results?

Harry in Ky · Jul 16, 2025

I guess I'm just stupid, but I can't see where adjusting the rod is going to gain anything. If the pedal linkage design is wrong and the amount of pedal stroke is limited by pedal up and pedal down stops, then change THAT. The rod adjustment merely puts the clutch release lever in different spot in relation to pedal travel, it won't change the stroke of anything.

I would consider relocating (or simply removing) the pedal bottom stop allowing the pedal travel to increase a little, or maybe drilling a third hole in the release lever so the adjusting rod can be moved down a little. That will increase the travel with the same pedal stroke. It might make the pedal a little harder to push, but will give the release bearing sleeve a longer travel on the inside. (which is apparently what you think is needed)

hodge · Jul 17, 2025

Harry in Ky said:
I guess I'm just stupid, but I can't see where adjusting the rod is going to gain anything. If the pedal linkage design is wrong and the amount of pedal stroke is limited by pedal up and pedal down stops, then change THAT. The rod adjustment merely puts the clutch release lever in different spot in relation to pedal travel, it won't change the stroke of anything.

I would consider relocating (or simply removing) the pedal bottom stop allowing the pedal travel to increase a little, or maybe drilling a third hole in the release lever so the adjusting rod can be moved down a little. That will increase the travel with the same pedal stroke. It might make the pedal a little harder to push, but will give the release bearing sleeve a longer travel on the inside. (which is apparently what you think is needed)

When everything is correct, the pedal stop is not an issue. Therefore, removing it won't solve the problems- determine WHY you have very little travel for the clutch/transmission engagement. I doubt that it's an issue in the linkage. My first thought would be a worn out clutch.

Harry in Ky · Jul 17, 2025

Suit yourself. You made the claim that there isn't enough travel to get the PTO clutch released and still have free play at the top of pedal travel. I'm saying adjusting the length of the rod won't alter that. You would need to either increase pedal travel overall, of shorten the distance required using existing pedal travel. If you now think a new clutch is the answer, then by all means, go for it. I'm just looking at making external changes, which is what I thought you were considering.

svohio · Jul 19, 2025

Harry in Ky said:
Suit yourself. You made the claim that there isn't enough travel to get the PTO clutch released and still have free play at the top of pedal travel. I'm saying adjusting the length of the rod won't alter that. You would need to either increase pedal travel overall, of shorten the distance required using existing pedal travel. If you now think a new clutch is the answer, then by all means, go for it. I'm just looking at making external changes, which is what I thought you were considering.Hi @Harry in Ky

@Harry in Ky Your last reply you were replying to @hodge comments, not me svohio. Haha! However, I appreciate your straight-forward answers. That is why I'm posting, for anyone's thoughts and experience. Your first post to me gave me part of the answer I was looking for, which was whether re-adjusting the linkage mechanism by disconnecting from the pedal and adjusting the linkage's range or motion would help shorten the range between engagement/disengagement points, or whether that could be done at all.

I do think both of you are probably right: 1) adjusting the linkage will probably do nothing to modify the range, and 2) it probably is a worn out clutch.

Being a new hand-me-down owner of this tractor and not worked on them, I didn't want to spend $,$$$ to replace the clutch and come to find out a simple fix was all it required. It appears I'm going to need to save some money and try to get this fixed next year.