My ST30 (30hp UK model with front bucket and rear 3 point lift) used to have plenty of power and I could buzz round the roads and fields in 3rd gear without any problems. The only time it "moaned" at me was if I tried to lift something too heavy with the front bucket.
Now it "moans" all the time and I need 1st gear to get up even the slightest incline. It will only do 2nd gear on a downhill slope and power feels like only 5-10hp instead of 30hp.
The engine runs fine and has had a full oil and filter service. Both the bucket and 3 point lift seem fine, (other than a slight judder when lifting for the first couple of minutes of running in the morning).
I was told that it could be a failed front gearbox seal, where the drive shaft enters the gearbox. This would suck air in and cause the low power and "moaning" noise.
(This does make sense as air in hydraulics always causes some power loss).
I split the tractor, changed the hydraulic oil and replaced the seal but no joy.
I have since added Lucas Hydraulic Oil Booster and Stop Leak, without any obvious improvement.
I am running out of ideas guys and need it to be right before haymaking.
Now it "moans" all the time and I need 1st gear to get up even the slightest incline. It will only do 2nd gear on a downhill slope and power feels like only 5-10hp instead of 30hp.
The engine runs fine and has had a full oil and filter service. Both the bucket and 3 point lift seem fine, (other than a slight judder when lifting for the first couple of minutes of running in the morning).
I was told that it could be a failed front gearbox seal, where the drive shaft enters the gearbox. This would suck air in and cause the low power and "moaning" noise.
(This does make sense as air in hydraulics always causes some power loss).
I split the tractor, changed the hydraulic oil and replaced the seal but no joy.
I have since added Lucas Hydraulic Oil Booster and Stop Leak, without any obvious improvement.
I am running out of ideas guys and need it to be right before haymaking.