Random Grinding when PTO is engaged

trailrider1205 · Apr 26, 2012

I have a Ford 4600 that will make a random grinding noise almost like things are going to break loose in the mid section of the tractor. It started doing this a couple days ago. I didn't give much thought at the time as I figured it might be the sickle mower when it swings the bar back.
Then yesterday when I was running the square baler it did it a dozen times. But a much worse sound. When the sound starts its almost like something came disconnected. The engine then revs (like no load) then a ton of grinding then it is like all connects back up and nice and quiet.

I tried pushing in the clutch when it was doing it and it still did it.

I do know the clutch might need replaced as it is hard to get it in gear and there is no more adjustment left.

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Matt

Ultradog MN · Apr 26, 2012

The clutch has nothing to do with the pto on a 4600.
Did the sickle more stop turning when you hear the engine rev?
I'm thinking you either have a bearing going out in the tranny or maybe the clutch pack in the pto is failing. It's possible that low hyd pressure to the clutch pack is causing it to slip too.
Maybe you could put a broom stick or long screw driver to your ear and try to listen for the source of the noise.
Just knowing if it was coming from the tranny or the rear end would help a lot.

trailrider1205 · Apr 26, 2012

At the time I didn't pay that much attention when it happened when running the sickle mower. 1. the noise wasn't very loud. 2. was frustrated the arm was swinging back in normal grass. (just got the sickle and baler and making sure all works)
The problem is that the noise only happens for a couple of seconds and then goes away.

Hopefully the New Holland dealer will offer some advice.

Thanks

trailrider1205 · Apr 26, 2012

Well the dealer has no clue why it would be doing this. Only suggestion was to bring it in and put it on the dyno. So they are coming to get it tomorrow unless things change. Hate to do it, but need to have it fixed. I guess its good to figure this out now instead of when I'm trying to bale my real pasture.

The other thing I find odd is the tractor acts like it lacks power when I drive in 4th gear or higher.

Jerry/MT · Apr 26, 2012

trailrider1205 said:
.

The other thing I find odd is the tractor acts like it lacks power when I drive in 4th gear or higher.

Check the air filter for restriction. If it's clogged it will reduce the air flow and make the engine run hotter gas temperatures in the cylinders and reduce power output.
Also check the fuel delivery to the pump. You could have a clogged fuel filter, a resticted fuel line or a clogged strainer in the fuel tank.

trailrider1205 · Apr 26, 2012

Just cleaned the air filter.

How do you rephrase the title of my post? It really should read "Random Loud Banging when using PTO"

trailrider1205 · May 3, 2012

Still no word back from the dealer.
Just wondering how hard it is to replace the clutch?

Got to thinking that depending on what they think is wrong and cost to fix it I might just bring it home and do the work myself.

Welding up a rail and stands to split the tractor won't be a big deal. I don't have a concrete floor. Main reason I sent it to the dealer. Wasn't too sure how to go about splitting one on a dirt floor.

Any ideas on amount of time to split a 4600 would help.

Thanks,
Matt

Soundguy · May 3, 2012

on that 4600 you actually have 2 clutches. one for the drive train.. which you said is already past usefull life.

the other is the hyd clutch pack UD mentioned. it could be slipping.. either worn media or low engage pressure....

as for low power in 4th? it's all relative. what you trying to do in 4th?

soundguy

trailrider1205 · May 3, 2012

Figured out the issue with 4th gear. Slight adjustment on the carb cleared that right up.

Talked to the dealer this morning and they are supposed to place it on the dyno tomorrow. Hopefully this will narrow it down. Then I will need to decide if I bring it home and tackle the problem or let them fix it.