B20 HST performance / Problem ?

[MikeInOnt]

To-day was my first day that I could actually get my new toy, B20 TLB 550 Hrs, out and get it to work. No problems digging up an old stump...BUT when I put the HST under any load, very little power, almost stalling. Running at @2800 rpm it would not back up a 20 degree slope in mid range, did manage in low but it was a struggle..or atleast it squeeled awfull loud. What would be an acceptable squeelch factor???

HST fluid part way down, but not below safe range, and clear in color.

I purchased from dealer who led my to believe, or at least I thought so, that all fluids had recently been changed...???

(I was so happy to find one, and with only 550 hrs of personal use it looked great and I only had 1 hr to get ready for an appointment, the reason for my out of town trip. I bought it based upon verbal assurances it was in great shape! (I know..I know..))

So what should I check, and what's the best approach to take to the dealer,,,who is 500 miles away.....

At a minimum could I expect a shipment of required filters and oil? Or could it be more serious and load it up and bring it back for him to check out...?? A day's trip each way plus the time there???

Any insights much appreciated!

Mike In Ont

(who couldn't live without a back-hoe now!!)

 

[Kodiak]

I can't help you with your hydro problem. But was going to suggest that if the nearest dealer is 500 miles away, that you check into finding a local independent tractor mechanic. Try checking with some of the local golf courses, many times they keep one on call instead of regular payroll.

 

[Carl_NH]

Mike,

It should climb over things in forward or reverse with 4WD to the point it's not safe in mid or low range as a point of reference. I usually run mine about 1500 when driving and 2000 RPM for BH or FEL work. Try running a a lower RPM to see if the problem is worse or better.

Does it move forward OK, and just reverse is an issue? If so then it may be adjustment. If the BH works that means the Hyd system is OK most of the time. There are two filters for the hyd system I beleive on the B20 as the B21. Also you might want to see if there is a screen type filter on the B20 - not sure..

First call the dealer, explain the problem ask for suggestions to check, wether to add oil, change filters etc - things that you would be willing to do to avoid the trip. Take his advice and do the suggested checks/repairs. This may involve several rounds of parts/shipping delays etc plus install time on your part, however I would not go further than filters and minor adjustments.

If at that point it is still an issue, then you might suggest if they want to engage a local mechanic for oversight on their tab so be it. If after that it's not resolved, then truck it back and have them return it to you once repaired. (You could suggest they do the round trip or send their mechanic as a starting point pending how they react initially to your problem)

What are your purchase and sale terms? You should have some Hrs/days of operation that if the unit does not perform you have recourse, although a verbal contract (sound operating condition) is binding as well.

BTW - I think it's something simple - like a filter on the HST side - this is what it sounds like.

Let us know how you make out.

Carl

 

[MarkV]

Mike,

Often when people are using an HST transmission for the first time they misunderstand how it works. Unlike an accelerator where you apply more pedal to gain more power,with the HST you let up on the pedal when more torque is required. By letting up on the pedal you are more or less shifting to a lower gear. If you already understand the workings of HST, forgive me for stating the obvious. It is just natural for most of us to floor it when we need more power and it is just the opposite with HST.

I would also check the air filter. When the filter is dirty on my B21 there is a significant loss of power.

MarkV

 

[smthng2do]

My suggestion is that you call the dealer you got it from, and tell them to get their butts over there and take care of it for you. HST's do operate differently, but you should not be dogging it out in the conditions you are talking about. It shouls be "Their" responsibility to take care of you, not the opposite. Get on the phone, and demand some action be done immediately, or go get your money back. You should not have to fix something on your own under these circumstances. If it were a car with 5500 miles on it, I am sure a car dealer would take care of it too, especially if ya just got it home. Call them, explain your problems, and tell them to do something about it. Let them know that you cannot be traveling 1000 miles every weekend. They should send someone to you, or come pick it up themselves. They assured you it was in great working order, now it is time they "deliver" on what they said. Man, the people today!

 

[MikeInOnt]

Thanks all..

Good comments about the HST Mark, easy to forget the theroy and expect more power, good chance my perceptions at the time were screwed up. I got a hold of original owner and yep the HST fluid change is definately over due (By about 200 hrs!) So I just picked up the trans fluid and both filters and will change tonight. Very good chance Operator error and newbie adrenilin contributed to circumstances.

Advice so far was that any travel under any type of load should be at pretty much full throttle in low or mid range. High range ok for no-load, and relatively no grade travelling.

Like I said perhaps it is my perceptions. The HST whine or squeel does seem loud, but I will compare after trans fluid change.

Thanks again, much appreciated!!

Mike In Ont