X738 float detent difficult to engage

[oldnslo]

On My new to me 2021 X738 the detent for float is very stiff and difficult to operate. It looks like there is a screen on the end of the spring cap - detent cover that faces forward and slightly up so is potential for moisture ingression. I tried spraying some penetrating oil in the screen. Has anyone else experienced the float being difficult to operate?

Note: I do not know if previous owner used the float feature.

 

[CH4Ohio]

There are 3 small ball bearings in there that are held in place by a spring. They kinda jam past each other into a detent that puts it in float. If moisture gets in there they rust up and don't slide easily and no longer operate smoothly.

Only real fix is to replace them. I ordered them online from a ball bearing place (believe it or not). Only cost a few dollars. Was as much to ship as for the bearings. Order extra cause you need 3 hands to get them installed and when you drop one the extras will come in handy.

Have replaced the ones on my Kubota B model twice now. And it doesn't sit outside!

I just measured mine with some calipers. Seems like I was surprised that they were standard English fractional sizes. As I recall one is bigger than the other two on the Kubota. They're all in the range of BB size.

DISCLAIMER -- I'm assuming that yours is similar design to Kubota. I don't even know what a X738 is . . . Should be able to verify by looking at schematics online.

DISCLAIMER #2 -- I don't even see a FEL option for a JD X738 so the info above may be completely off-base. My comments were referring to the FLOAT on a FEL joystick.

 

[oldnslo]

The Deere X7 series have option for front mount snow blower or blades. The float is for running either of these over uneven terrain.

Suspect you may be correct on moisture ingression and rust being a contributing factor to difficult movement.

 

[beenthere]

Schematic from jd parts for the SCV which has the float key #5

https://partscatalog.deere.com/jdrc/sidebyside/equipment/26933/referrer/navigation/pgId/883459

 

[oldnslo]

Thanks beenthere

 

[CH4Ohio]

Don't know if you have a source for ball bearings or not, but I ordered from this company. Just found them with an Internet search. There are probably dozens of others so just FYI. Looks like your detent has the same 3 ball-bearing design.

VXB Ball Bearings

Online Bearing Supplier & Distributor | VXB.com

Buy premium ball bearings online from VXB.com - your trusted bearing supplier and distributor. Explore a wide selection of bearings at wholesale prices with same-day shipping and next-day delivery. Precision, speed, and reliability delivered fast.

vxb.com

 

[CH4Ohio]

Thanks beenthere

I looked that JD Detent kit up -- out of curiosity. Looks to me like they want $500 for it.

 

[oldnslo]

I looked that JD Detent kit up -- out of curiosity. Looks to me like they want $500 for it.

Ya I saw that ridiculous price and the complete valve is over $900. I am debating on trying to dismantle the detent vs modifying the cylinder mount to provide some float for the lift cylinder on the blade. Not a fan of using the detent frequently for plowing snow and my driveway is to rough to not have some float allowing blade to move.

 

[CH4Ohio]

Ya I saw that ridiculous price and the complete valve is over $900. I am debating on trying to dismantle the detent vs modifying the cylinder mount to provide some float for the lift cylinder on the blade. Not a fan of using the detent frequently for plowing snow and my driveway is to rough to not have some float allowing blade to move.

New ball bearings are about $25. Just small parts for big fingers to assemble but cheap repair once you clean the parts up.

 

[Tinhack]

I keep this "kit" on hand for such things. It's saved me a few times. They're available in Imperial sizes too.