jd 5020 break-in question

[marcin]

Hi all,

I just had the 531 engine overhauled on my 5020, and the clutch re-built. I am ready to break it in. I know that I have to work it pretty hard relatively quickly. I am not sure what would be the best way:

1. use a disc plow (14' jd TWA)
2. use a 11 shank chisel plow

The disc plow would be relatively smooth, but I am not sure it is hard enough work for the tractor. The chisel plow will definitely be harder but may result in more stopping and going, having to adjust depth, etc.

I am looking for advice on which one of the two would be the better way to go. Thank you for your opinions.

M

 

[Tx Jim]

During break in period vary engine rpm's & closely monitor temp gauge. Type plow to use would depend on type of soil. Are you using break-in oil or regular engine oil?

 

[jenkinsph]

Agree with Jim on varying engine rpms and watching temperature closely. I would use the disc and pick a gear that sufficiently loaded the tractor. Guessing 6th gear would load it enough.

 

[marcin]

Yes, I am using jd break-in oil. How much variability of the rpm are we talking about? Should I be varying it all over the range or closer to the top of the range. I had used the disc on this tractor before and it seemed to fly with it - but maybe my gear was too low. The chisel plow was much tougher on it. Our soils are mostly yellow clay. When you say watching temperature, do you mean making sure it does not overheat or making sure it stays up? I had cleaned out the radiator, put new water pump, belts and thermostats on the tractor as well - so I hope I do not have an issue with this...thanks again.

 

[Kubota 2350]

With the right oil you won't have any problems, diesels like to work hard.

 

[beenthere]

I think you are overthinking this, and just using it to work the land will be good for break-in, as inferred by the others. Vary the rpm at the top end, just not wot for full time. And watch for temp rising.. over-heating.

 

[marcin]

I did the brake-in today...was not straightforward.

I used the tractor hard for 2 hrs with a chisel plow, no issues until one of the brake lines broke...
I was able to fix it but it took almost an hour and the engine temperature went down some...
I used it afterwards really hard for 6 hrs.

I was told that I have to use it continuously at first for 3-4 hrs to seat the rings, so my question is...do you think the 2 hrs was enough or will I have problems with hp and oil consumption? Thanks for your opinions.

 

[jenkinsph]

You should be good to go. What you don't want to do is idle too much and operate with no load during break in.

 

[kuboman]

As said before, you are over thinking this. Break in is not that technical. Run as you normally would. Keeping engine temperatures in the safe operating range is more important than how hard you work it. Just don't have extended idle times.