2015 gear noise

[Charlie175]

Well I have just experienced a issue that has me stumped.
I have about a mile to travel to a second location to mow and last week coming back the front end started making a ticking noise (front axle), almost like something metal is touching a gear tooth as it goes by. I slowed up and it went away but as I sped back up it came back. It only occurs if I go faster than mid throttle in 3H. I even coasted down a hill neutral and when you reach the same speed the noise starts.
I took off the drive shaft cover thinking that it may be rubbing but it was not. The oil level is normal. It's hard to determine if it is one side or the other.
Have any of you experienced this issue? I hope the front axle isn't going bad!

 

[AchingBack]

How are your fluid levels? How many hours are on this tractor? Are you driving at high speeds on pavement while in FWD? I hope you will find a simple solution.

 

[Charlie175]

How are your fluid levels? How many hours are on this tractor? Are you driving at high speeds on pavement while in FWD? I hope you will find a simple solution.

Fluid Level is fine, 189 hours, no I don't use FWD while traveling.

 

[nelsond7004]

I know you said you don't use FWD when traveling, but does it make the same noise with the FWD engaged?

 

[Charlie175]

Yes it does. I am going to change the fluid this weekend and see if there is any metal in the fluid. Any suggestions on finding a repair manual that shows the front axle?

 

[Charlie175]

I downloaded a PDF copy of the Cub 7200 service manual which is the same tractor as a 2015. Now on to finding the issue

 

[Charlie175]

I removed the FWD drive shaft today to check the UV joints and decided to run the tractor without it. No Noise. I checked the joints again and all seem nice and tight. No wear marks either. THe bearing in the shaft cover was tight also. Put it all back together and now no noise! Heck if I know what it was due to the absence of any wear marks