New RK37 HST Squeal

[fharringVA]

Hi everyone...

I picked up a new RK37 yesterday and getting used to all of the various features, etc. I've owned a Kubota L3010 HST for about 19 years so used to HST transmissions, but my RK37 has a very noticeable "squeal" to it (not the typical HST whine). It doesn't happen when in neutral and pressing fwd or reverse, so I don't think it's the hydraulic pump. It's most noticeable when accelerating or decelerating through the 2k - 2.5k RPM range. However, I can definitely hear it when barely pressing the fwd pedal as well. Is this normal? Maybe I was just spoiled by how quiet my Kutbota HST is? I did check & top off the hydraulic fluid as well. Have about 4 hours on it so far. Just not sure if this is something typical, or if I should have RK check it out? Other than that, I'm happy so far!

Thanks in advance.... Frank

 

[markie61]

Like you, I've spent nearly 20 years with one tractor, which is a long time to get used to what become "normal" noises. The new and different noises my RK55HC makes were at times alarming - like the power steering always sounds pressurized and the high-range on the HST has a lot more gear whine compared to the old. My plan has always been to stop by the store and try "whatever" on the display models. If it's the same, I won't worry about it; if it's different, then contact service department. If you have a smart phone, you may want to record a brief clip of the sound and email it off to them.

 

[fharringVA]

Like you, I've spent nearly 20 years with one tractor, which is a long time to get used to what become "normal" noises. The new and different noises my RK55HC makes were at times alarming - like the power steering always sounds pressurized and the high-range on the HST has a lot more gear whine compared to the old. My plan has always been to stop by the store and try "whatever" on the display models. If it's the same, I won't worry about it; if it's different, then contact service department. If you have a smart phone, you may want to record a brief clip of the sound and email it off to them.

Thanks! Yeah, I'm thinking it's mostly getting used to the differences. I haven't noticed anything re: power steering on the RK37. The squeal on the tranny doesn't seem to differ depending on range it's in. At first I was thinking it could be the drive shaft cover but it does it whether in 4WD or 2. I too was thinking about trying a display model and see if it's similar and certainly will record and send in a clip to RK to see if it's anything to be concerned about. Other than that, so far so good!

 

[fharringVA]

Just thought I'd post an update on here. Eric from Rural King left me a voicemail last evening saying he saw my post and assured me that the HSTs just takes a little time to settle in (which I've seen mentioned with all brands of new tractors), so nothing out of the norm. In fact it's already less noticeable to me. Impressed with the customer service from Eric in Front Royal to receive a call like that! Overall, couldn't be happier with my purchase and the features/function of the RK37. Just recently added a grapple and set of nice forks. The quick attach is a breeze and 3rd function works really well!