Backhoe Diagnose Driveshaft T9

Stew427 · Jul 3, 2015

Hello, I am a recently new owner of a 2001 Terramite T9. I am using the backhoe to install a sewer line to my home. This afternoon I was moving backward when a grinding/clanking noise can from under my seat. It made the sound again a few seconds later when going forward. I stopped and tried driving it later this evening. The noise is still there and can only go a few feet before it does it again and will stop moving. Definitely coming from under the seat. The hydraulic work fine. When I extend the outrigger enough to lift the rear tires from touching the ground and press on the pedal, the tires move in both directions without making the clanging sound. I am thinking I broke the drive shaft. Can anyone confirm this is the correct assumption. If not, what else could it possibly be.

jd4310man · Jul 4, 2015

Congrads on the T9, Yea i would say its a universal or coupling that is at fault. You will have to take a closer look to confirm the cause. I believe that there is a short shaft and coupling that goes from the drive motor to the rear axle.

CarlL · Jul 6, 2015

The basic recommendation is to call Terramite directly and discuss your problem with their tech support person. They are extremely helpful and willing to work with you to find the problem and solve it. Also, if you haven't already done so, look for and download the Parts Manual for the T9. While not a repair manual, the blowup pictures and description will aid in finding problem parts.

Since the tires turn when there is no load on them, I doubt you would have any broken shaft. You could have spline problems at one of the connections to the rear axle, or a gear tooth problem within the transmission or the axle.

Stew427 · Jul 6, 2015

I have downloaded the Parts Manual and been studying the pictures the last couple of nights. I feel like I am back in school studying for a test

I am coming up with the same conclusion and thinking it is the companion flange. It was too late last night to observed and check but am going to once I get home this evening. Other people have posted pics of broken companion flanges of the Terramite and they also indicate that you should check these bolts every 20 plus hours of operation. I put on 40 since I have owned it. If I cannot find any visual indication tonight I believe I am going to call Terramite in the morning. Thanks for taking the time to response I really do appreciate the insight.