GST Clutch Frozen?

[wdlanning]

The L35 GST was stored with the clutch dis-engaged outside for several years because it was not running.
Engine and hydraulics are now working. Engaging the clutch petal has no effect on engine like it is not engaging. The PTO does not work although it locks with lever.
Any thoughts on how to dis-engage the clutch? Or is it something else?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

If the clutch was frozen it wouldn't disengage, there is a very very low chance that's its stuck open unless there is pressure plate damage.
You do know that's not the GST clutch right?
The GST clutch is hydraulically activated within the transmission.

Before you dive into a split for the mechanical clutch I would check everything else completely, as it could have multiple issues (like broken/damaged PTO drive, and No hydraulic power to engage the GST clutch).

When it's running do you have power steering?
Have you checked with a gauge that the transmission is getting pressure?

 

[wdlanning]

Thanks Wolfman...I appreciate you.

I do have power steering. When I turn it hard, it jerks somewhat. I have not pressure tested the trans, but will do that. In testing the power steering, I noticed that the PTO will work in neutral, but not in gear. Not normal.

Now I have a bigger problem while testing the power steering...got coolant leaking from exhaust header. I had replaced head gasket when I had the head tested and valves done. When I saw the leak, I just shut it off and walked away in disgust.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Thanks Wolfman...I appreciate you.

I do have power steering. When I turn it hard, it jerks somewhat. I have not pressure tested the trans, but will do that. In testing the power steering, I noticed that the PTO will work in neutral, but not in gear. Not normal.

Now I have a bigger problem while testing the power steering...got coolant leaking from exhaust header. I had replaced head gasket when I had the head tested and valves done. When I saw the leak, I just shut it off and walked away in disgust.

The coolant leak could very well be from the exhaust bolts if they weren't installed with sealant, the exhaust studs go into the coolant jacket, pull the manifold and check them before you jump into anything else.

 

[wdlanning]

Wolf man
You are correct about the leak from exhaust manifold. I forgot to use sealant on the studs.
Now back to the clutch issue. First look says the pressure test points are behind the mounting bracket for the backhoe. Since the power steering is working, does that mean the GST is being pressurized adequately?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Crack the line that feeds the GST clutch and see if you get flow, if you do that will at least tell you it's getting fluid.

 

[wdlanning]

The L35 will try to move forward/reverse, but it feels like the clutch is slipping.

I checked the GST valve test points for system pressure, clutch pack pressure, relief valve setting and pilot valve pressure. All tested within specs.

I have been shifting gears and shuttle arm and now the tractor will lightly jerk as I move the shuttle arm. It will move about 2 feet before stopping. A big improvement!

The clutch does not behave as if it is frozen or binding. Any other tests I should try before starting to split the tractor?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

What does the PTO do when you try and move the tractor?
Does it stop spinning as well?

 

[wdlanning]

MR. S
I did not check it when in gear. I did test it in neutral and it appeared to be working. I attempted to stop it turning using a 2x4, but I could not. Not a fail proof test, but it suggests that the clutch is working.
I will test the PTO today.
Thanks for the followup.

 

[wdlanning]

I checked the PTO with the tractor in gear and shuttle forward. PTO runs and I could not stop it by using a 2x4 wedged onto it.

 

[wdlanning]

It was dis-engaged for a long time. It suggests to me that the clutch is now engaging because the PTO works in neutral and in gear. But tractor does not move. Based on the WSM, the transmission main shaft has to rotate for the PTO to operate, right?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

It was dis-engaged for a long time. It suggests to me that the clutch is now engaging because the PTO works in neutral and in gear. But tractor does not move. Based on the WSM, the transmission main shaft has to rotate for the PTO to operate, right?

Yep sounds like the mechanical clutch is working fine.
I hate to tell you, but it sounds like your having the same issues that I had with mine when I got it.
Mine turned out to be a bad clutch pack seal, and yes with a bad clutch pack seal the hydraulic pressure tests look good.
The bad news is the only way to confirm it is to tear it apart and look at the seals.

 

[wdlanning]

Would there be any advantage to removing the GST valve and looking inside? But I am certain that I do not know what to look for, even when splitting the tractor.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

No, no real advantage to removing the GST valve assembly as you will not be able to pull the clutch pack out to inspect the seals.

 

[zuiko]

Doesn't the L35 have the GST clutch pack that can suffer from a broken retaining snap ring? Removing the valve assembly and looking inside will tell you if the snap ring has broken.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Doesn't the L35 have the GST clutch pack that can suffer from a broken retaining snap ring? Removing the valve assembly and looking inside will tell you if the snap ring has broken.

Yes a few of the first versions did have that issue, but if I remember correctly they will not move at all if that is the issue.