Broke my Parking Lever (4115)

[trlong]

With the heavy snow/slush last week, I managed to break the housing for the 47" front snow blower drive (PTO to shaft...u-joints, gear to chain to impeller...). New one on order so, hopefully that's under control before much more snow hits. Lately, no matter how hard, or fast, I've pushed the brake lever down the parking brake has not engaged (that snap you can feel and the parking brake light comes on). I know I should have pulled things apart, greased, lubed, adjusted, etc. But, still restricted on activities, post heart surgery, I hoped it would hold on 'til warmer weather and dry ground (no garage or barn here). Normally, all would have been well lubed before winter set in but it was a bit problematic with the surgery this fall. Such is life.

Too late to make a long story short... The other day, to "park", I jammed down on the brake pedal(s) and pulled up on the silly little orange plastic parking brake lever. It BROKE! I've ordered a new one and printed the parts diagram from jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet...etc. (Catalog 2917, Grid F13, Section 60, Pg 10). Great. But, now I'm wondering how much of the dash panel I have to take apart to get the sucker out, not drop all the parts on the driveway, install the new plastic lever, and lube/grease everything needed. Oh for a heated garage and all my tools within reach!

Anyone's help with info or thoughts (other than "if it's not smooth, DON'T JAM IT) would be appreciated. For now, dropping the rear blade IS my parking brake. Tom

 

[bad 1k]

I can't help on your situation, but can share your pain.

I also have a 4115, and will not use my parking break!:laughing: I'm so scared i'll break it when releasing it. Sometimes, i have to jump on the brake pedals hard to get it to release.

With my tractor being stored outside this winter...no brake, I'll put my loader down and rear snow blower.

 

[trlong]

bad_1k, Sounds familiar. However, mine (800+ hours now) has never had a problem with this until this fall when I could not do the maintenance I should have. If I get some good advise, I'll share it as I think the main problem is that all of the linkage needs proper lubing but is not "user friendly" to get at it. A garage, especially with some heat, would probably be a lot better for the J.D.

 

[kennyd]

I have a 4110, same setup as your 4115. I must say that my parking brake works perfectly-I keep things lubed with Fluid Film and all has been well.

TR, I have never had to take the dash panel off so I can't be much help-I just wish I was closer to give you a hand.

 

[trlong]

Kenny,

You've been a GREAT deal of help in the past. I'll get this one figured out, even if it has to wait for warmer weather. When I do, I'll try to document and maybe get some pic.'s should they be of help to any one else. Thanks, Tom

 

[beenthere]

The parking latch is just held on a shaft with a cotter pin. Here is a pic of it (item 3), if that helps.

 

[trlong]

beenthere, thanks. The diagram and p/n's are in the pub. I quoted, above. I'm just trying to figure out how NOT to take apart more console than I have to to get at the cotter pins, shaft... and replace the lever and lube everything. I've decided I'm definitely calling my buddy, down the road, to use his garage for this one! Tom