Strange Noise M9540

SSweet9c1 · May 3, 2013

This past spring I purchased a used 2007 M9540 HD12 with just over 2000 hours. with 1353 loader.
After plowing with it the other day, every time I idled it down it made this awful groaning noise, it sounded similar to when you bottom out a hydraulic cylinder and deadhead the pump... I couldn't really tell if it was related to clutch position (hydraulic wet disc). As soon as I throttled it up the noise went away. As the tractor cooled down I could idle it down lower and lower before the noise came back.. IE. shortly after plowing I could only slow the engine to 1500 RPM and after 10 minutes or so I could get closer to 1000 RPM before the noise came back...
I have changed the hydro filters but not fluid. and the engine oil and filter.
The sound is definitely coming from in front of the driver's seat, and it seems like it is coming from near the steering column (top of engine area)
I was thinking it might be either turbo related (due to area of engine) or hydraulic pump related (due to pitch of noise)
Any idea where to start trouble shooting??? It runs great, and everything works as it should...
Thanks
Jonathan

DT86 · May 3, 2013

You know, mine has been making a funny noise here lately as well. Not sure if it is the same one you describe though.

I'll be calling my dealer to come take a look. If he isn't too busy it will probably be tomorrow after they close at noon. I'll let you know what I find out.

Not long ago there was a thread or two here about m7040's making funny sounds. I never did read what happened. It might be worth digging them up.

ovrszd · May 3, 2013

I've also heard some guys talking about a similar noise. Seems it's related to the power steering. When my tractor sits out in cold weather and is cranked it makes a noise similar to what you are describing until the hyd oil warms up. With mine, if I turn the steering wheel slightly the noise goes away for a few seconds. And it makes less noise at idle and only perks up when rpms are increased. Anxious to see what you guys figure out.