Tractor overheats when mowing. No dealer actions fix it. Any ideas?

[pmsmechanic]

I will do another test and check the hose temps on the way in and way out. I think that will help me know if the thermostat is working, right?

If you hold the infrared thermometer on the thermostat housing with the engine running you can see exactly at what temperature the thermostat opens and closes. You don't need to overheat the tractor either. I often just close the radiator off completely with a plastic garbage bag.

The mechanics that mowed the lawn with the Kubota and charged for the time weren't to bright. Mowing the lawn with a garbage bag over the front of the grill would have heated the tractor up a lot faster.

 

[finn1]

I will do another test and check the hose temps on the way in and way out. I think that will help me know if the thermostat is working, right?

No, it won稚 tell you if the thermostat is hung up partially closed. There may still be some coolant flow, but in insufficient volume.. Heat transfer is a function of mass flow and delta t..

 

[brs78660]

Wow guys, thanks for all the feedback. I am going back out to my land in a few days and will try to make a good to-do list on things to check.

I know this tractor should be able to mow all of my property, with the AC on (if it worked) in 100 degree temps without issues. It did when it was new. I want it to work like it suppose to.

I will try to test as much as I can and will get back with answers.

 

[Big Barn]

The mechanics that mowed the lawn with the Kubota and charged for the time weren't to bright. Mowing the lawn with a garbage bag over the front of the grill would have heated the tractor up a lot faster.

Maybe they think like lawyers and strive for billable hours. But I agree with you and would bet on not too bright

 

[circled]

Have you checked the deflection on the water pump belt? Just my two cents! Good Luck!

 

[radios1]

did the mechanics remove, and look at the water pump for signs of corrosion or breakage of fins?..

 

[dodge man]

Put in a new thermostat, they are cheap. My bet is on a plugged radiator, hydraulic fluid along with dust and dirt. I’d pull it and take a good look.

 

[mred2]

I think you also said you had a loss of power. Have they checked the compression. If that is ok, then you are left with the cooling side. Thermostat, radiator, water pump.

 

[5030]

Gee wizz sounding more like me the only cure is a orange tractor............

+1. Buy a Kubota and trade in that no name thing. Some sucker will buy it I'm sure.

 

[mred2]

We have a really good Kubota dealer here. A good tractor. But I really don't like orange. I don't think I can order one in another color.