Third time my tractor nearly killed me

Jkline · Jun 23, 2017

I have a 2004 JD 4120 with 300 hours on it. Original owner. My ground is very steep, where you can only go up/down. I was brushhogging my field and I just started going down the crest of my hill and my transmission popped out of 'B' gear into neutral-- I was in 2wd. Even with the rear wheels locked up, the tractor picked up speed and was going over 20mph by the time I reached the bottom of the hill. How I didn't flip... no idea.

Anyway, this has happened two other times over the last 13 years resulting in real pants-filling experiences. I forgot my rule: always gear 'A' and 4wd, as it has never happened.

I really need to get this fixed, if there is something to fixed, as I dare not let my kids use it. Any suggestions?

Thanks,

nybirdman · Jun 23, 2017

You have been lucky;get it fixed and follow your own advise.

Utopia Texas · Jun 23, 2017

Very scary situation. Take it to the dealer and see what they say.
Don't want to read about you in the obituaries!

PJSprog · Jun 23, 2017

Glad you rode it out without serious injury ... or worse. I would suggest sparing no time or cost to get that fixed.

topbuilder · Jun 23, 2017

If you reached 20 mph with the bakes locked, possibly that is a hill that does not need to be mowed.

rgr33 · Jun 23, 2017

I mow on hillsides quite a bit. After sliding about 150 feet down the hill on clover in July last year, I only mow in 4wd now. Popping out of gear is unacceptable in these situations, better fix it before it's too late.

riptides · Jun 23, 2017

The third time? I'd opt for different equipment, or leave it to mother nature.

Sooner or later, bad stuff will catch up to you. A roll over is not something to be taken lightly. You hit a dip at 20mph with that speed and weight, you can easily roll over. Rear wheels leave contact with the ground, no brakes for you.

Utopia Texas · Jun 23, 2017

MtnViewRanch · Jun 23, 2017

I know that everyone's circumstances are different, but I for one am a believer in only taking my tractors out of 4x4 when need be, such as on a paved road. Other than that I leave my machines in 4x4 mode. I would rather accept the minimal addition wear and tear than be caught in 2wd with a problem. I would bet that my 75hp tractor hasn't been out of 4x4 mode 10 times in the last 12 years.