1983 L355SS 4WD question

[CedarTree]

Today I got stuck on ice and snow in a neighbor's driveway and then in my own as I was returning from there. I have had the selector in 4WD since I got it, and never really had a bad traction situation.

The rear wheel was moving (sometimes left or right) as I got stuck many times trying to exit a level driveway, with a slight uphill angle (less than 10 degrees) but neither the right-front or left-front tires were moving.

It seemed like I heard some grinding sounds and could feel some unusual vibration as I was revving up the engine trying to break free of the slush/ice but what was astounding it seemed as if both front-wheels engaged when I would turn the steering all the way to the right or left but would disengage when I moved the steering wheel back to center...

I tried disengaging 4WD, rocking it a bit then re-engaging 4WD (the handle moves into both 4wd and 2wd positions correctly)

How can I tell if it's working without dis-assembly? I am not up for that.



I'm sure I am not explaining well but it's the best I can do.

 

[Eric McCarthy]

Jack the tractor up and put it on jack stand and see what happens when you put the 4WD in gear and move. Over use of the tractor in 4WD can and will break the front axle over time, much like an automobile. You dont want to run a truck up and down the high way forever or you'll trash the front axle.

 

[DsBota]

Ditto what Eric said. Sometimes on my B8200 it will only fully engage after moving forward a bit. The grinding sound doesn't sound like good news.

 

[CedarTree]

Today I got stuck on ice and snow in a neighbor's driveway and then in my own as I was returning from there. I have had the selector in 4WD since I got it, and never really had a bad traction situation.

The rear wheel was moving (sometimes left or right) as I got stuck many times trying to exit a level driveway, with a slight uphill angle (less than 10 degrees) but neither the right-front or left-front tires were moving.

It seemed like I heard some grinding sounds and could feel some unusual vibration as I was revving up the engine trying to break free of the slush/ice but what was astounding it seemed as if both front-wheels engaged when I would turn the steering all the way to the right or left but would disengage when I moved the steering wheel back to center...

I tried disengaging 4WD, rocking it a bit then re-engaging 4WD (the handle moves into both 4wd and 2wd positions correctly)

How can I tell if it's working without dis-assembly? I am not up for that.



I'm sure I am not explaining well but it's the best I can do.

I was able to prove to the former owner that 4Wd is bad and I'm trailering the tractor to a kubota dealer in Albuquerque shortly. I saw a hole (I'll post something on Sunday in the daylight but it will be a lousy cellphone camera shot) near the right front hub and can see a pinion gear moving inside looks like a shrapnel hole from an explosion.

We didn't get bad snow and mud until about a week ago and that was when I noticed 4wd was dead.

I came to a deal with the former owner where instead of paying him I'd pay the Kubota dealer so as long as the repair doesn't cost over 2k I'd still be OK financially.

Someday when she is restored to perfect mechanical condition I will still be a very happy Kubota L355SS owner. I love the 1720 loader out here.

Thanks for your help I'll try to post some pictures Sunday.

 

[CedarTree]

Here is a picture of what you can see from outside.

I need to take it into the Kubota dealer as soon as I can borrow a trailer.

 

[ETRon]

I'd be wondering if they can find the parts you're going to need. That side looks like it'll need most parts replaced, the gears are damaged as well the housing is toast. Might be cheaper just to replace the whole front axle assembly from a donor machine. Just 2 cents but something to consider.

Ron

 

[daniel.ray77]

Just noticed your thread. I had good luck finding a replacement front differential for my L225DT thru Southern Global Tractor. They have access to salvage yards all over the country. I spent 6 years looking and stumbled across them and they had one located in about 30 minutes!!! Their number is:866-742-5748.

Good luck.

 

[DsBota]

Yep I think used is the way to go as new is going to cost a pretty penny and thats if the parts are still available.

 

[CedarTree]

Do you remember how much that front differential ended up costing you?

 

[CedarTree]

I think I'm going to throw in the towel on this one, the former owner is going to have to deal with this. I just need to get my money back. I'm going to locate another L355SS for myself I really love that model from Kubota. I hope I can locate one at a reasonable price.

 

[daniel.ray77]

My used diff was $950 delivered. Had it installed in about 2 hours. Never installed a diff before so i took my time. I inherited my tractor from my pops so i had incentive to buy it.

 

[CedarTree]

Well, I got my tractor back today.

Unbelievable.

Final repair cost $2500.

I am really, really fed up.

The original owners forced me to use a certain local machinist who kept my tractor all this time stringing me on and on, I paid about $1000 for parts up until today when he soaked me for another $1500.00

The original owners moved away, leaving me stuck with this do-nothing mechanic all this time, who really ripped me off. By this time I was stuck with him. Threats, pleading, whatever didn't get this guy motivated in the slightest.


I just had it out clearing a lot of dead wood and stumps trying to break it so I could make sure it would hold together. It seems to be holding up well.

Now, I need some body parts. I want a complete hood and front-end grill.

Since I last posted, I have learned a bit about my L355SS and it seems many parts from L305/L305DT, L345/L345DT will fit. I'm pretty sure the body parts will fit any way.

Anyone have a complete hood/front-grill for sale? SINCE IT'S MADE FROM SOLID UNOBTAINIUM I'M SURE THAT'S FANTASY.

Anyway does anyone think a body shop could fix this reasonably-well?

Otherwise I do need a new hood/grill.

I do have the metal bar that mounts in front of the hood, I have it removed right now pending some more maintenance.

TIA

Here is the latest picture taken today.