4 Wheel Drive Will Not Engage (3510I with Loader)

[knaussp]

I recently purchased a 3510i with 383 hours. I did not test the four wheel drive at the time of purchase, but was assured that it worked. I have since used the tractor and am unable to engage the four wheel drive. Can you provide specific guidance on engaging / testing this tractors four wheel drive feature.

Additionally, I intend to use it to bush hog on a very steep levy near Memphis. The soil is very soft and it is difficult to maintain traction. Suggestions to improve traction beyond the 4 wheel drive issue would are appreciated as well.

 

[gldwing57]

You can usually just rock back and forth the tractor real gently and it will slip into 4wd...If u dont know much about the tractor could be the linkage is rusted up. Sometimes they are a little stubborn about going in or coming out.

On you other question...DONT....the 3510 is a great little tractor but keep it off steep grades..THEY WILL TURN OVER. When I am doing any work with much of a grade at home I use my other tractor a 2000 series Ford..it has a wide stance and feels good on the hills but not the 3510.

With that being said if and only if you can go straight up and down with a good place to turn at top and bottom would I consider using the 3510.

Be safe

 

[kongs3510]

I recently purchased a 3510i with 383 hours. I did not test the four wheel drive at the time of purchase, but was assured that it worked. I have since used the tractor and am unable to engage the four wheel drive. Can you provide specific guidance on engaging / testing this tractors four wheel drive feature.

Additionally, I intend to use it to bush hog on a very steep levy near Memphis. The soil is very soft and it is difficult to maintain traction. Suggestions to improve traction beyond the 4 wheel drive issue would are appreciated as well.

You might also try using the front end loader to lift the front wheels off the ground a bit. This takes out all binding and lets it slip right in. I do this most times as I park on concrete and it will bind up just backing it into the barn....Kong

 

[knaussp]

Great suggestions. I'll try rocking and using the loader. Also, yes, I will plan on straight up/straight down on the slope. I looked at Ford 2000 tractors but was afraid that a 2wd wouldn't get it done on the slope.

 

[gldwing57]

You would be surprised where a 2wd tractor will go especially with chains on. I rarely have my Branson out of 4WD...it wont go anywhere in 2wd