Front end noise on a 1725

[dingo983]

I have a NH 1725 that started making a (hard to describe) metallic,vibrating noise that is progressively getting worse. It only happens in 3rd gear while moving. The sound almost totally goes away when you take it out of 4wd.
I am thinking it may be coming from the drive line or front gear box. I just wonder if anyone had a similar issue and what it turned out being. May help my diagnosis go quicker. Thanks

 

[Spicer]

What gear it’s in shouldn’t make any difference to the front axle only the load applied. If you’re sure the noise only occurs in 3rd then disregard the rest of this post.

I would first check the universal joints and then pinion bearings and pinion.

With the tractor off and the rubber boot slid back from the front axle, jack up one of the front wheels while in 4wd and rotate the wheel back and forth. The pinion should not move in or out or rock side to side. The universal joint can be more difficult to diagnose if it’s partially worn. Usually you will see metallic particles surrounding one of the seals of the joint when they go bad.

Mike

 

[mostly_gas]

Does it make a difference on dirt or pavement?