1720 Reduces Power after about 30 - 45 Minutes of Use

[srodenny]

Purchased a 1720 4WD two years ago. Three weeks ago, I was bush hogging some fields for about 7 hours. The tractor was running fine and the temp never got to the red indicator nor did any warning lights come on, even though I could feel the heat from the engine. I was going through some high grass and the tractor bogged down and power was reduced to just under 1000 RPMs. I shut it down and let it cool off. Had plenty of coolant in the radiator and all fluids were good. After about an hour, I fired it up and it came back up to normal. On the trip back to the camp, again lost power where it was a struggle just getting up some minor inclines.
Returned this weekend and again went out to a closer field. Same results - after about 45 min while bush hogging going through some high grass (that was already cut three weeks earlier), it bogged down again. Shut it down and waited about 30 min. Then limped back to camp.
At suggestions? I did not check the thermostat and I am hoping it's not the head gasket.

 

[barbqranch]

If you haven't done it, I would change the fuel filter. I have had the same thing happen, and it was water in the fuel that got out of the tank due to the bouncing or hill climbing while brush hogging.

 

[Jerry/MT]

It sounds like your fuel delivery may be restricted. It could be a clogged strainer in the fuel tank or the fuel filter itself. Another possibility is the fuel tank vent. ifit clogs, then it can restrict the flow.

 

[Bladehauler]

I would do a check of fuel and air filters

 

[TraderMark]

+1 on checking the air filter!

 

[srodenny]

I did check the air filter and it was a little dusty. , I cleaned it with some air. I haven't checked the fuel filter yet, but that will be next

 

[jimmysisson]

I did check the air filter and it was a little dusty. , I cleaned it with some air. I haven't checked the fuel filter yet, but that will be next

If you're not familiar with changing out a fuel filter, read up about it on this site. Save hours of trouble with air locks.
Jim

 

[srodenny]

Well, finally made it up to the camp with new fuel filter in hand. Changed out the old - looked like it had barnacles growing on it.
Success! Went out and bush hogged yesterday and the better part of today.
Thanks for all the input and help!
This website and the members are awesome. I even set out one of the bucket mouse traps while I was there. One of the other guys will check the results this next weekend.