Update on all 7520s

[CuzPat62]

Blu 82,
I see that you have already ordered your tractor so I may be a little late with my update/review on the 7520. I haven't checked in on here in a while. I bought a new 2006 7520 4 WD with the ML 275 FEL, 84" bucket, Mahindra bale spear and Mahindra pallet forks (all skid steer quick attach), grill guard and diamond plate aluminum canopy, back in August. I have had a few problems. I agree with some of the others that have posted about the loader being slow. Mine is slow. I do not believe the 17 gpm claim by Mahindra. My loader was already retro-fitted with the new cylinders and other hardware at the distribution center so the recall on the cylinders did not affect my loader. Some of the problems I have had are as follows:

1.- Loader very slow, is still slow to this day.

2.- Loader would not pick up a 2500 lb. pallet of sod (with the pallet forks). Don't know why. The dealer checked the relief valve pressure and it was 2500 psi, book says it should be 2450 psi. Still do not know why it would not lift the pallet of sod.

3.- Headlamp bursted 1st week I had it, dealer replaced it.

4.- Leaking hydraulic fluid from one of the rear couplers, took off and put new teflon tape on threads.

5.- Fuel guage inaccurate (bad sending unit), dealer installed a new sending unit.

6.- Leaking fluid at the banjo coupling on the hydrostatic power steering line, just tightened up fitting.

7.- Had to adjust brakes so parking brake would hold.

My out the door price was $29,473.45.

The tractor now has about 74 hours on it and all of my problems have been fixed by the dealer, other than the slow loader and still do not know why it would not pick up the 2500 lb. pallet of sod.

Overall, I like the tractor. I would buy Mahindra again. Weight, price and features were the selling points for me. If I had one complaint it would be this: I absolutely hate the location of the fuel fill neck. It is still behind the seat. I do not have a big fuel tank and a pump and hose that I fill from. I buy my fuel in 5 gallon containers and it is a royal pain to put fuel in it from a 5 gallon can. Also, their brochure on the tractor reads that it comes with a locking glove compartment. It does not. Must be a misprint in their literature. I hope all the bugs are now out of my tractor and I look forward to many hours on it. Anyone got any idea's on the issue with my loader?

 

[Blu 82]

It seems to me that 7520 owners need to confront Mahindra together on the issue of hyd flow. There have been several posts questioning the specs on hyd flow and lift capability. One of the reasons I am getting the Mahindra is that its stated hyd flow is much better than competitors in this size tractor. I am getting both FEL and backhoe and that increased flow I would think is important to operate both. This kind of stuff scares me since this is a substantial investment. It is not too late for me to cancel my order.

It also seems to me that any/all Mahindra dealers that believe in their product should step up to this issue and try to determine the flow rate of the 7520. The credibility of Mahindra and their dealers could be at stake. This is not a good thing for a company trying to break into the US market. Someone at Mahindra needs to step up to this issue and determine whether their tractors are performing to their stated specs.

Mahindra dealers please respond. Maybe passing this info to the company would help. Proper testing could nip this in the bud and solve it. Info travels very quickly in today's world and it appears that this issue needs to be cleared up.

Is there an accurate and verifiable way to determine the true hyd flow?? I would be willing to send some $ to one of the 7520 owners to have it properly tested. Anyone else? I sure would like to know the answer before my tractor is shipped. Company credibility is very important to me.

What say u 7520 owners or about to be owners?? Am I over reacting (being a new guy that may invest about $40K on a tractor and is concerned about that investment) or do u all think this issue needs to be addressed by Mahindra?

 

[SPYDERLK]

Blu 82, YES - absolutely Mahindra should address the slow loader in relation to the 17GPM spec. And then should address the owners if the spec is false.

CuzPat62, the 3900lb capacity at the eyes may be just barely at the inadequate level out about 3' on pallet forks with a 2500# pallet. Id bump up the relief setting on the loader valve. The tractor hydraulics are set about 2900psi I think. The loader relief on the Prince valve is on the top at the 5oclock corner.
Larry

 

[Blu 82]

All--my 7520 is at the dealer and I will go look at it tomorrow. Should get it delivered when dealer installs BH and goes thru all checks. Can't wait to see it and get it delivered. Will keep all advised as I get seat time and write a review once I have enough knowledge and experience to make it worth while. I will try to get training on how to put on/take off BH. Also, will try to get tng on all functions and some techniques since this is my first tractor. Hopefully, I can help others that are in my shoes.

Thanks to all for the advice, techniques, opinions, etc. I will need all the experience u all have so that I can use the equipment proper and get the most out of it. Keep helping us newbies.

Rob

 

[Blu 82]

All--had my tractor delivered today and the dealer spent about 2 hrs w/me showing me how to use the FEL and BH. After that I started clearing land w/the FEL and I had a blast. The BH needs some work. As already mentioned, there is a design flaw in that the back of the seat for the BH contacts the hyd connectors (in the rear of the tractor) and caused them to come loose. My dealer is going to see if there are shorter hyd connectors and will talk to Mahindra about the prob. I will also send Mahindra an email about the design flaw. They either need shorter connectors or another way to mount the seat so that there is no interference--seems like easy fixes--hope Mahindra responds promptly. Also, Mahindra didn't send the BH manual w/the tractor. I will email them about that too. Sure seems like Mahindra could improve customer smile factor by sending a new owner at least a hat or t-shirt too. I should have about 25 hrs on the tractor by the end of the week and am learning thru experience now.

 

[DavesTractor]

All--had my tractor delivered today and the dealer spent about 2 hrs w/me showing me how to use the FEL and BH. After that I started clearing land w/the FEL and I had a blast. The BH needs some work. As already mentioned, there is a design flaw in that the back of the seat for the BH contacts the hyd connectors (in the rear of the tractor) and caused them to come loose. My dealer is going to see if there are shorter hyd connectors and will talk to Mahindra about the prob. I will also send Mahindra an email about the design flaw. They either need shorter connectors or another way to mount the seat so that there is no interference--seems like easy fixes--hope Mahindra responds promptly. Also, Mahindra didn't send the BH manual w/the tractor. I will email them about that too. Sure seems like Mahindra could improve customer smile factor by sending a new owner at least a hat or t-shirt too. I should have about 25 hrs on the tractor by the end of the week and am learning thru experience now.

Tilt the seat up and look at the bottom. Most are adjustable. Move it rearward and you are good to go.

 

[Blu 82]

Dave--the prob is it is too far rearward (ie toward the rear remotes) and the seat back it hitting the rear hyd remotes. It is as far forward as it goes (unless my dealer and I missed something). I will look at it again tomorrow.

 

[DavesTractor]

Dave--the prob is it is too far rearward (ie toward the rear remotes) and the seat back it hitting the rear hyd remotes. It is as far forward as it goes (unless my dealer and I missed something). I will look at it again tomorrow.

Blu82, the first 7520TLB I delivered had the same problem. It actually took me a while to see the adjustments. They are not immediately obvious.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Blu82, the first 7520TLB I delivered had the same problem. It actually took me a while to see the adjustments. They are not immediately obvious.

The far frontward positions are a cramp for a six footer.
Larry

 

[Blu 82]

OK, here is my initial tractor review:

2006 7520 4WD w/ML 275 FEL--$26710
511 Backhoe--$7615
12 inch bucket for BH--$525
24 inch bucket for BH--$640
Grill guard--$175
Red metal canopy--$300
Freight--$300
Back tires filled w/H2O--$0

Delivered: 20 Nov 06

Pro: Seems like a very strong and sturdy tractor w/most features standard in comparison to other brands (2 rear remotes, nice/adjustable seat, see brochure on tractor and compare yourself). Better specs on almost everything compared to other brands (better speced hyd flow, more lift capability on 3 pt and FEL, stronger/more capable BH, larger std bucket w/FEL, again see brochure on Mahindra website). Steps on both sides. Heaviest tractor I compared it to which helps (IMO) on all the ground engaging work I have to do. Also, prices were best compared to other brands. Zero % financing for 24 mos. Nice body compared to "boxy" looking tractors (she's got the curves in the right place). Overall, best tractor for the money, especially for what I need a tractor to do. Mahindra and dealer response to issues of a new tractor owner have been outstanding so far.

Con: Fuel filler in back of seat instead of down low near steps or some other place that is more accessible. Many other tractors have this design also. Harder to fill up w/5 gal cans. Would have like a "free" hat and T-shirt from Mahindra (virtually free advertising for them and allows us non-green/orange owners to proudly display our colors--hint to Mahindra if you are reading these).

Now have 20 hrs on tractor clearing brush and pulling some logs. Since I am a new tractor owner, I don't have anything to compare it to but the tractor seems very strong and sturdy. So far, tractor has been great with some exceptions listed below. The Mahindra company and my dealer have responded very quickly to all issues. Mahindra answered my email immediately and called several times to help me w/my situation and I have never had that kind of great company response ever. Good on Mahindra. Here are some of the issues and remedies I have had:

Problem: Backhoe fairly unusable due to backhoe seat back contacting rear hydraulic connectors thereby causing multiple disconnects.
Fix: Mahindra responded immediately and yesterday delivered to my house another seat mount for the BH seat. I will put it on and see if it works. Mahindra said the BH was delivered w/the wrong seat mount (Bradco makes the BH for Mahindra).

Problem: BH manual not delivered w/tractor.
Fix: Mahindra sent manual.

Problem: Tools in toolbox all rusted.
Fix: Mahindra sent new tools.

Problem: Tractor would not start.
Fix: Dealer came to my property and found the electrical connection to starter loose and tightened. Easy fix and if I were more experienced, I could have found problem and fixed myself. I learned something.

So far the tractor has performed extremely well and the response by company reps at Mahindra has been outstanding on all my issues. I have never worked with a company that responded so well to its customers. I think the other brands will have some significant competition with Mahindra. As soon as I fix the seat issue on BH, I will see how she digs. My pond could always be a little bigger. For me, it boiled down to Kubota vs Mahindra (didn't like the comparable Massey, Deere too expensive, New Holland was also expensive--$2-3000 more than Kubota and even more for Mahindra) and Mahindra won out. Just had better specs, more lift capability, better backhoe for what I thought I needed in a tractor w/a good price and better financing. I probably forgot a lot of things but will add as I remember and will try to keep the 7520 update a living review as time goes on. Would encourage other 7520 owners to do the same.

I tried to add some pics but the "manage attachments" says my files are too large?? Maybe I am doing something wrong??

 

[SPYDERLK]

Blu 82. What tool box? Where?
Larry

 

[Blu 82]

Larry--my toolbox is low on the left side in front of the steps. It has a canvass bag w/several tools in it. Also, since u had the same prob w/the BH u may have the wrong seat mount like i did. Contact Mahindra and get another. I put the new one one and have it as high as it will go and the seat as far from the connectors as possible and it seems to be ok. I really haven't used the BH yet but will in a couple of weeks to ensure it doesn't contact the connectors as the BH is used and the tractor rocks around. I must admit that it is going to take some practice to get used to the BH controls. If I can figure out how to attch pics I could show u the tools and original BH seat issue.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Blu 82. I got no tool box or tools. Didnt know I was supposed to. I think my seat bracket is the same as your replacement. I ended up doing mods so that the seat could be close to the connectors but tipped slightly toward the BH controls. Seems more comfortable.
I just thot of something. Have you checked your transmission/hydraulic fluid level? It may be low if they installed your FEL and BH without cycling them and re-topping the fluid. Im running mine 3 or 4 quarts overfull with all the hydraulics collapsed so when theyre extended the sump will still be full.
Take care, Larry

 

[Slippy]

Blu82: sounds like you have a real nice tractor and set up. You really must get some pics for us. Would really like to see how the bh connects and how difficult it is to get on and off. Still have not decided if I get a 7520 whether to keep my 511 bh, or go with all new, which is the reason for my interest in pictures.
You will be very happy with the tractor. Mahindra makes a very good product, especially for the price. Have fun and be careful.

 

[Blu 82]

Slippy--I tried to post pics but the system won't take them. Maybe I am doing something wrong. I think my pics are too large (1.37 MB file). Anyone know what I can do?

 

[Slippy]

I wish I could help you out. The only thing I can suggest is converting to mpeg files, which I think are smaller. I will send you a pm, maybe you can email them to me. Thanks.

 

[chandler37]

Ok;
Just came from my dealer after attempting to complete the 50 hr service on my 7520. Manage all the filters except the Power Steering filter. Did i read something wrong or what. Dealer says there is no filter in the PS. He has looked in the parts book and there in not one available????

Also on cleaning the Hyd. screen at the bottom of the chassy; something tells me that by pulling that cover I will let ALL the hyd. oil out. any ideas on this.

Like the tractor; have been using it to load gravel. It works very well in a mudding pit. Haven't gotten the beat juice in the tires yet, but added about 500# to the back and that has made a bid difference with balance. Used it earlier when I got it on a 4 bt trailer plow in heavy ground and it just plays with it.Can't wait for the snow to go so I can get back to the field.

I have been reading the questions about loader/hyd speed. Engine RPM = Hyd Speed. If it was a log spitter wouldn't you run the rpm's up to get the job done.
When loading I set the hand throttle @ 1600-1800rpm and use the foot feed when bucket is full and heading to truck for more speed. I have seen more engines damaged from lugging than revvved. Also for letting the loader down, move the lever to the down w/ pressure mode. NOT the float mode, float is very slow, there is no hyd assist in the location and therefore slow.

Chandler

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Chandler, yes there is a power steering filter. If you look at the power steering reservoir, there is a part of it that sticks up that has 4 screws that hold a cap on. Remove the screws and the filter sets in there. As far as the filter number, I do not know it, I get my filters from Dave's Tractor.

Good luck.

 

[Blu 82]

Chandler 37--I had the same questions u had. Are u just doing a 50 hr service because u think it needs it? My manual says most of that is at the 100 hr service. However, almost all other tractor dealers of other brands talked about a 50 hr service where they change all fluids and filters. I thought the Mahindra needed 50 hr service too but some folks here pointed out that most of that is at 100 hrs. I know I will change the eng oil at 50 hrs for sure.

Great ? on cleaning the hyd screen. I had the exact same ? when I read the manual. Since I am new to the tractor stuff, I am clueless and really rely on others w/more expertise.

I have 23 hrs on mine clearing bushes/small trees and pulling out larger trees when we fell them. It seems very strong. Still haven't had much time on the BH. It really needs to be washed off but I don't have any power or well on my property yet.

Slippy--will try to get some pics to you on BH this week. I will send them direct since I haven't figured out what I need to do to post.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Just had the second major hydraulic problem with mine. The hydraulic circuit runs thru the loader valve. When they mount the loader they interrupt the standard hard plumbed system and run hose to the loader valve and then back to the hard system. So far I have lost about 8gal of hydraulic fluid in two separate incidents, using the BH, due to this being done in a non professional manner. The last is due poor hose length choice and routing such that the hoses to/from the loader valve are vulnerable to being pinched under the tractor. Be very aware of hose routing and what you run over. The hidden damaged hose may not leak for awhile, but if the leak starts while you are hoeing you probably wont catch it until the sump starts sucking air. By then youve lost several gallons.
Larry