MT357HC thread (& 342, 347, 352)

CAD8790 · Jul 17, 2020

My dealer did get the information on the software update today. The update has to do with the glow plug timeout needing to be extended for starting in very cold weather. We are far from cold weather here in Louisiana, and the update will be available soon anyway.

LS Tractor Owner · Jul 18, 2020

hammick said:
I should have asked this question before I greased the front axle. There are 8 zerks on my front axle. When I greased the two that are on the center of the axle the grease expanded the parts. Are there seals in these that I need to be mindful of over-greasing?

Attached is a photo of the zerks I am talking about. I think they are called the front and rear axle holders.

View attachment 663544 View attachment 663545

Yes, there are seals in there. My dealer told me one or two pumps is all that is needed. Do not grease until it oozes out... that is too much.

Avenger · Jul 20, 2020

Still really jealous of your tractor hammick.

From what I know about the XR with the zerks, I pump mine a few times and call it good. According to my service manual, there are o-ring seals in that pivot point.

*thinking about talking with my dealer about a possible upgrade...:licking:*

PLanger · Jul 22, 2020

Did they improve the loader valve on the MT as compared to the XR? The XR loader valve is "serial" in that boom up/down and bucket curl/dump do not operate simultaneously.....it's either the boom or the curl......very poor as compared to other brands I have operated and owned.

CAD8790 · Jul 22, 2020

I dont have enough experience with the xr series to comment on its loader hydraulics, but the mt357hc can lift/lower and tilt at the same time. Cycle speed is reduced due to the amount of flow available, but they do function simultaneously at a reasonable speed. I honestly prefer the hydraulics on this tractor to the ones on the JD 5055E it replaced. The cycle speed is a little slower than the JD, but the motion and control ability is far smoother. My personal fear of the hydrostatic drive not having enough power was unfounded also as this tractor is limited by traction just like the shuttle shift JD.

traderfjp · Aug 5, 2020

That is one beautiful rig. I have a MT240 on order. I only have 3 acres so no need for a bigger tractor with cab. If I had the acreage I would get one in a second. AC/Heat/stereo and room for a small dog. Nirvana. Good luck with your new beast.