JD5400 Clutch Problem

[wkpoor]

Having trouble shifting into gear, any gear. Sometimes need to select neutral in the range then put in gear then go back to a range. Seems like the clutch won't fully disengage but this only happens when its cold out. In warm weather its fine. Talked to a repair guy and he said if I let it go too long I risk damage to the synchronizers in the tranny. Anyone else seen or have had this problem? Clutch on this model looks like it can get real expensive. JD wants $785.00 just for the clutch assembly.

 

[dbdartman]

Sounds to me like you need a lower viscosity hydraulic fluid. If you're already running the light weight hydro oil, then you just might need to let the tractor warm up for a few more minutes, then exercise the hydraulics some before trying to shift.

 

[radman1]

I have a JD 5300 and the process you describe happens frequently on mine. Worse in the cold. It doesn't happen with all shifts but probably 10-15% of the time. It has always been this way and I have owned it for 8 years and bought it used. I just release the clutch slightly and let the transmission turn, depress the clutch again and then shift. I think it is relatively normal. The issue I am describing is only when the tractor is sitting still. I did replace the clutch on mine about 2-3 years ago and bill about $1500. The synchronizers allow shifting while on the go. I don't think this issue has much to do with the synchronizers.

 

[jd110]

I assume you might have the hydraulic reverser transmission? If so, then yes lighter weight Low-viscosity HyGard will help your shifting. If you don't have reverser, then the oil won't help unless running the pto causes the problem to be worse. With no reverser, you probably need a new clutch, although I dont see why cold weather should cause the problem without reverser.

 

[wkpoor]

I don't have a reverser. I adjusted the free play on the clutch and its a little better. If play around with the range shifter while pressing and releasing the clutch I can tell the gears are spinning and sometimes I have to stop them with the range lever. Then it goes into gear alright.

 

[wkpoor]

I have finally solved the clutch issue I was having. The problem was just as I thought. The tractor was split and nothing at all was worn or broke on the clutch. It was simply some sticky stuff on the clutch spline not letting the clutch disc float when it was depressed. It was cleaned up and left dry and reassembled. Never shifted so easy before.

It almost resembled cosmolene on the shaft from when it was new. It perfectly explains why in cold weather it was much worse.

 

[bjcsc]

So where did the stuff come from?

 

[wkpoor]

No idea. Had to be there since new as the area is totally sealed and it was dry and clean. Had to be on the shaft when the tractor was assembled new. After years and dust off the disc mixing with the stuff it became a tacky paste.