4300 / Sync Shift - Power Reverser

Whitey · May 20, 2009

I am considering a used tractor and it is a low hour 4300 with a sync shift power reverser........at least that is what the current owner says it is. He stated that the reverser is locte on the left side of the steering column where a turn signal in a car is locted. The tractor is a good drive away and before I invest into the drive I would like your opinions on this configuration. First of all could this tractor be configured this way and second any pros or cons for this transmission.

Thanx

mfreund · May 20, 2009

I personally have a e-hydro but a good friend has a power reverser and loves it. Actually all you are getting is a hydraulic clutch. You are able to change from forward to reverse in the same gear without having to physically push down the clutch pedal. I finish mow with mine and he brush hogs. My opinion if you will finish mow get hydro. If you will do dirt work or field work look at power reverser because it should make the tractor cheaper. I would personally only buy a hydro.

This question is alot like which is better blondes or brunettes?? Everyone has a opinion and all are "right". Depends on what you want or like.

WH401 · May 21, 2009

I agree with mfreund that it depends on your uses as to which transmission you would prefer. The only problem I have found with my PowrReverser that I don't like is the fact that if I'm mowing moving forward in say 3rd or 4th gear, B range, that I have to come to a completely stop and down shift to 1st to back up. If I just flip it to reverse and back up in 3rd or 4th then you will get such a jolt in the RFM and tractor from the machine changing direction at a such a high speed that it will whip the wheels on the RFM around and tear up the grass. Plus, if the section of grass that I'm mowing has been whittled down to a triangle shape and then I go to make a U-turn to go back in the direction to cut it, I'm unable to slow down at all so that is probably harder on the front end. If you plan on finish mowing then get a hydro, it's better suited for that. But if your needs are just loader or or ground engaging tasks than it is a great transmission.

Cidertom · May 21, 2009

I had a 4300 with the 12/12 power reverser for 5 years before I upsized to the curent 4520.
Great tractor. I did not finish mow with it, but I did a lot of FEL work, brushhog, and blading. Being able to shift on the fly is nice. I like the ability to go backwards just as fast as forwards. That saves alot of time when loading trucks, moving piles.

Known issues with the 4300: 3Pt drop/recover. 3pt leaks down slightly then recovers. Retrofit fix was a high pressure filter in the line to the 3Pt.

Some had a interference between the hydraulic intake filter screen and a gear (badly made intake screen) Ask if it has been pulled and cleaned. It it hasn't happened it won't.

Front axle seal leaks. Simple fix but requires a press.

Key gets hot. Know one knows why

Overall a good tractor. It should be worth a trip to see how it's been cared for.

Have fun

jeffster · May 21, 2009

I have the 12/12 PowrReverser on my 3520 and love it. My 11 year old daughter and 12 year old son have no problems driving it, so it can't be that hard.

I realize a lot of people love their hydros and certainly they can be nice. However, I wanted a manual for a number of reasons, and this thing is great. I will totally agree though that if in B range and I reverse I'll spin the tires if not in MFWD. I either have to downshift or clutch it.

Overall though, it is a great setup.

ms-honda · May 21, 2009

If this is a 4300 sync shift you HAVE to use the clutch to change direction. The later 4310 series and the current 3000 "20" series do not require clutch to change direction. The unit your looking at uses 2 clutch packs one for foward and one for reverse. The good thing is these clutches are wet lubricated (in hydraulic oil) but the bad thing is they are known to wear unevenly and require reshimming. I have to say these are not JD's best design but they do work good for the most part. I would ask owner what updates have been done, and if he has noticed any issues with clutch/shifting. The issue of the 3pt hitch not holding position as described above is known as floating and caused by debris lodging in the popet valve surface of the control valve for 3pt. To fix this JD installed an inline filter just before the oil enters the valve for 3pt. This filter will be located just under center link mount bracket for 3pt hitch, also under fill cap for transmission oil. It is round and about 4 inches long and will have steel lines connected to each end. Its a plus is this machine has this... Other issues I know of are pto clutch baskets breaking (also corrected by JD) Big issue with breaks sticking, but can be fixed fairly easily. Also known for front axle leaks... but this is not critical to operation. Find out if service was done as recommended, this is important. The Yanmar engine in these are solid, start excellent in cold weather and are trouble free... Good luck!