New Me, New Tractor

[shane]

I've been reading/lurking hear for years. I've learned more about tractors that I ever thought I could. This is a wonderful place.
I just received my new JD 3120. I've had it for about two weeks but hardly any seat time due to my recent work schedule. I have a JD 790 2WD no bells and whistles that I have been mowing with for the last seven years that I purchased new.
I read here somewhere once a discussion on breaking in new engines. I have not came across anything yet in my new manual about break-in period. So, my question is should I wait before I go mow two hours at 2600 rpm on my new machine until I put a few hours on at varying rpms? Has the thought process change on diesels with new technologies?
I can continue to use the 790 to mow with for a while if I need to until I pass the breakin period. Shane

 

[DaryleD]

Shane, I know there are infinite opinions on how to break in a new diesel (or gas motor for that matter). I would look into your operators manual and do it as Deere says to. If you would like just opinions from folks than I will give you mine. I would, like you said, drive around using various rpm's, change the oil 2 or 3 times within the first 50-100 hrs.( I know it seems extreme, but that's my opinion ) and then change the oil when it starts looking dirty, which doesn't take to long, and it at least in my case, get's changed way before the manuals guidline. I'll probably spend more in oil than I would on a new motor in the long run, but I would rather have it that way. It's better to be able to use it every day than have it in the shop for a couple days putting a motor in or rebuilding one.
Daryle.

 

[billbill1]

I would vary the rpms for at least 10 hours before cranking her too hard, that will give the metal time to wear in. At that point, I would also change the oil for the first time and get any shavings out of the pan and filter.

 

[Farmwithjunk]

It's always been my opinion that a diesel needs to be broke in under a load. Break 'em in like you're gonna use 'em. But whatta I know? First new tractor I ever bought is only 34 years old and running like a new one still.