Overheating Problem Resolved

[Judy_in_NC]

I just wanted to post back and say thanks to all those who advised and encouraged me when my 3510 began overheating after heavy bush hogging.

I was able to find a 2' wand to put on my air hose - at my local Tractor Supply. I tried that first, but it didn't faze the heavy blockage I had built up.

So I removed the radiator from the tractor. I had been dreading it, but it really was a simple job. Once I got it out where I could give it a thorough cleaning, I checked it with a flashlight first. Only one small area let any light through at all. I gave it a thorough going over with the air hose. It was unbelieveable the amount of very, very fine, almost powdery material that came out. I didn't stop until everywhere let the air pass through freely and no more dust came out. Then for good measure I gave it a good rinsing.

The only two trouble spots at all in the job was a slight bit of trouble getting the radiator lined up exactly right for reinstalling the bolts (for me the radiator was just heavy enough to be difficult to maneuver from an awkward position), and I had one bolt to wring off - even though I was being very careful not to torque it down hard. (I do not consider myself a particularly strong woman and was just tightening by hand.)

I was amazed how easily the side panels removed, making it so much easier to access everything. I only had to loosen the two rubber bumpers at the front and the panels lifted right out! I give Mahindra an A+ for ease of removal and reinstallation of those.

Thanks again to each of you who contributed to my success!

Judy in NC

 

[JimR]

Glad to hear you got it straightened out Judy. Try some cloth on front of the tractor next year. Maybe that will help to keep the radiator a little cleaner.

 

[Judy_in_NC]

Any suggestions for securing the hardware cloth?

 

[JimR]

I would use whatever will work with your tractor. I would try rubber tie down straps. I would also put a piece over the radiator that was breathable. The fan will keep it in place. When you see the temperature rising, shut it down and shake the cloth off. I would try anything instead of having to pull the radiator again.

 

[thegreatrandini]

Glad u have it going. I agree with the cloth idea next time you are doing heavy brush hogging. You might try some of that black foam used for small window air conditioner filters. I would go with very thin for your application. The fan suction will keep it in place. Here I thought you were high maintenance when actually you are everymans dream........

 

[JerryG]

Window screen over the grill works good and then use the oven cleaner when needed.

 

[Bluecheck546]

As I mentioned in my prevous post. Can't beat the window screen.... it is cheap, easy to install/replace, won't restrict the air flow. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[Judy_in_NC]

Here I thought you were high maintenance when actually you are everymans dream........

Ha! Ha!

I like the foam idea. A lot of this material was ultra-fine.

But, mainly, I hope not to have to face this sort of challenge again. Now that we have these fields under control (this was on new property we bought in 2004), I intend to keep them looking nice. We have them all seeded now, and they are coming right along.

Judy in NC