New to us tractor hesitates when backing up an incline

[geedub]

The Kubota L3130HST that we recently got has been almost stalling on occasion. I think it completely stalled one time. Sometimes it happens when I'm working the FEL or pushing with the box blade, but it happens mostly when I'm backing up a 4/1 slope with no load on the tractor.

I'm a tractor novice so I hope it's something to do with my technique. I believe it usually happens in low gear. I've been keeping the rpms at around 2000 most of the time. The engine hesitates for 1 or 2 seconds and I usually stop moving or working immediately and the engine picks back up.

The tractor had 114 hours on it when we got it and I've put about 15 more on it. Overall I've been able to do a lot of good work, but this has me worried. Any ideas?

Thanks.

 

[wushaw]

Sounds like either a fuel delivery problem or your seat saftey switch is loosing contact, I would check the switch first.

 

[NuBota]

Noob on a BX24 here - definately note how you are sitting in the seat when going up or down the hill - my hills average 15-20 degrees - and this happened all the time - had to concentrate on sitting back in the seat

 

[geedub]

Thanks guys, I'll check it out.

 

[MACDABS]

I know everybody is going to yell about this but, my 4310 would do that pushing the clutch in , I weigh about 155 , my leg would lift my butt off the seat enough from the safety . I had to bypass the safety on the seat had a service guy look at the machine twice before we figured out what was the problem.

Macdabs

 

[geedub]

I weigh exactly the same.

 

[RFB]

With no intent to insult your knowledge or experience, are you using the HST transmission to maintain speed or rpm?

The reason I ask is that the L30 series HST will draw down rpm as load increases, and the appropriate technique is to ease up on the pedal, not push down. (This is counterintuitive as opposed to a gas pedal.)

Set the rpms, then press or release the pedal to maintain rpm; speed will vary based upon load and incline.

 

[texasjohn]

If HST, make sure you are in low range... plus what RFB says.

 

[geedub]

RFB, I have almost no experience or knowledge about tractors. I did read some comments about not using the hst pedal as a "gas pedal" and I'm working to understand it exactly. I have noticed the tendency for the engine to bog down at times and I've done my best to adjust with the hst pedal. Sometimes it even seems to work. It hasn't been the issue in the case I described because I was only backing up a few feet when it would happen.

Texasjohn, yes I was in low when this was happening. Hey, she didn't get a 5030, but I'm getting some work out of this little tractor.

 

[RFB]

geedub,

Okay, here's the drill (also a 5030 like John).

Keep a sharp eye on your tach/RPM's.

Set your engine speed with no load and while still. (Try about 1800-2000 to start.)

Start your evolution for whatever task you are going to do.

As soon as you see any drop from your throttle set RPM's, immediately raise your foot up enough to bring the rpm's back to where you had them set.

Low is for heavy loads, ground engagement tasks, steep incline movements, precision movements in tight quarters...

Medium is a good for rapid back and forth FEL operations, (on stable surfaces with light loads carried low, after lots of practice so you have developed a "feel" for the machine)

High is for hustling down the road with no load.

One thing (or two) that will greatly increase tractor stability is to set the rear wheels to their widest location, and then fill them for rear ballasting purposes. Before and after is night and day.