New Holland 2120 won't go into 3rd or 4th gear

[geneM]

I have a 1990s era NH2120 with HSS. I can't get the HSS into 3rd or 4th in any of the 3 mechanical gears. Everything else works fine, I just can't move the shift lever into 3rd or 4th with the normal amount of force. Or even a little more than normal. Any ideas what might be wrong or where I should be looking for problems will be greatly appreciated.

And if someone has a recommendation on where to get the service manual, I'd appreciate that also.

Thanks.

 

[Harry in Ky]

I don't have a service manual, but I suspect there's a good chance you may have problems with shift linkage rather than internal transmission parts. Look this over and see if it appears to match your tractor. try removing some of the panels around the steering column and see if you find anything there that looks out of order.

Schematic, Manuals, Specifications and Diagrams for column shift - 2120 w/hss (12-91/) New Holland AG | MyCNHi US Store

Find schematics, manuals, specifications and diagrams for COLUMN SHIFT - 2120 W/HSS (12-91/). Find genuine OEM parts for your needs.

www.mycnhistore.com

 

[geneM]

0 minutes: Ask a question to TBN
18 minutes: @Harry in Ky replies
58 minutes: Pull sheet metal off and look around. 1 skinned knuckle.
68 minutes: Pull some more sheet metal off and look around
78 minutes: Twist self into pretzel to look some more
80 minutes: Find the cable that worked itself under the universal joint and prevents the HSS linkage from fully depressing into transmission.
85 minutes: Untwist self from pretzel position.
88 minutes: Install zip tie to keep offending cable out of the way.
119 minutes: Reinstall sheet metal. No leftover nuts or bolts. Second skinned knuckle.

Money saved not having to trailer my tractor to the dealer: at least $500.

Thanks a ton @Harry in Ky