"Klunking" brakes on 354

[dbd]

Hi all. I've got a new 354 and when I hit the brakes there is a decent klunking noise and feeling tranfered through the pedal. It happens when I first hit the brakes from speed but then if I let off and depress the pedal again, no klunk.

I have adjusted the brakes and checked all the bolts holding the drums together and the wheel weights, all tight.

Thought I'd see if anyone has any thoughts before I tear into them. Any suggestions? Thanks in adavance.

Dan

 

[Ranch_Hand_Supp]

If you have disc brakes ??? ... there are two brake adjustments. If you have them adjusted properly and there is no rust causing any binding there is going to be a normal clunk when you hit the brake pedal.

You can rock the pressure plate assy with your hand when the cover is removed.

If the wheels are not locking up you have good odds nothing is wrong.

Here are some pictures at the bottom of this page,


http://0049a5e.netsolhost.com/techstuffus/354lemaintenance.html


Ronald
Ranch Hand Supply

 

[Soundguy]

I'm not familiar with the brake system on your tractor.. but wonder.. are they self energizing brakes? That is.. do they apply , and then 'grab on' ? I'm not explaning it very well.. But if they are self energizing 9 drum) brakes.. this may be what you are feeling. They feel altogether different than your automobile disc brakes.. etc.

Soundguy

 

[GuglioLS]

I have a 354 as well.
From what you describe it sounds pretty normal it seems "bad" at first but as time goes on you get used to it. Now that I have had my 354 for about 1.5 years I don't even notice it anymore and the breaks operate smoothly now. Must be a break in period.

What you are feeling are 3 balls (yes Chinese tractors have 6 gonads, 3 on each side) moving inside a tapered channel to spread the brake disks against a friction plate.

Ronalds (Ranch Hand Supply's) pictures show this very well.

Enjoy your new tractor,

Larry G

 

[dbd]

Thanks for the help guys! I wasn't quite sure if it was a "break in" issue or not. I appreciate the help.

If it wasn't going to be 108 degrees this weekend, it might see some use...

Dan

 

[dbd]

By the way, what happens if the brakes are locking up?

Thanks.

Dan

 

[Soundguy]

If yuo are getting lockups.. I'd definately check adjsutment, and shaft and return springs.. etc.

If they lock up.. try driving in reverse and see if they release.

Soundguy