Bx2230 4wd problem

[Kangaroo]

Hello from down under, I have a problem with my little BX2230..

when 4x4 is selected, it feels and sounds like it binds up - even in a straight line, on grass, dirt or concrete. I can understand if on firm ground while turning ect, but this is happening going straight on grass. It sounds like the the ratio of wheel speed is not correct. If it travels more than a few metres (yards…) you need to reverse or swerve to release 4wd. I tried on flat ground in neutral to move by pushing, when 4wd is selected you can only move a metre or so before it gets difficult, if 4wd isn’t select you can move it easily.
it sounds like there is pressure in the drive train.

any help would be appreciated as I’m a long way from a kubota dealer!

cheers,

Kangaroo.

 

[85Hokie]

Are your tires stock or have you changed them?

 

[Flintknapper]

Check your tire sizes. IF not the below...then you might well have an issue with the 'ratio' (front to rear) being off and the gears are trying to bind.



Front tire: 18x8.50-8
Rear tire:26x12.00-12

 

[Boatman]

Every 4wd tractor I've ever used has this. Some tractors have a slight overdrive of the front wheels. But there are other factors. Tire wear, if the rears are used the most then they wear slightly and the result is the rear being under driven. Tire pressures can also has the same effect going either way.

My current BX will do the same and I'll either need to stop and slightly reverse or rock the steering wheel side to side to disengage 4dw. My neighbors BX25 does the same.

My l2800 will be difficult to disengage if I end up on hard pack or pavement.

 

[xrocketengineer]

After the tire sizes, I would check the oil level on the front axle and the universal joints of the front drive shaft for binding.

 

[Kangaroo]

Thanks All,

The tire sizes are the standard "turf" tires, I have never changed them. I have owned the tractor since 20 hrs old and now has 980hrs. The problem seems to have become worse over time, so while servicing it this time I thought I should investigate this problem a little more...
When I get home, I'll check the tire size (just in case), check tire pressure and front axle oil. I did remove the front propshaft and the universal joints and they all look good.
Thanks for the ideas, I'll let you know after I check the above.

 

[Boatman]

980 hrs on the same tires.... I'm going to stick with rears are worn and causing the ratio to be off. You could inflate the rears with a couple psi more than normal and see if the issue is lessened.

 

[Kangaroo]

I like your thinking Boatman - I hope it is that simple.
I'll let you know once I try that, thanks for the input!

 

[dlsmith]

I had the same problem with my BX2230, and it was the yoke on the front axle pinion being worn and loose, and the splined slip shaft was also worn. Replaced those parts and its smooth and quiet now.
And yes, you almost always have to stop and reverse slightly to get it to shift ut of 4WD,
that's normal.

 

[RMS]

Taking the weight off of the front using the loader helps me to get into and out of 4wd also.

 

[Kangaroo]

After checking the tyre pressures and wear ect, I don't think they are the problem.. It may be more of a vibration issue than a binding issue. I've removed the front prop shaft again, the uni's seem fine but the centre bearing may be a bit worn and creating noise and vibration - so I'll replace it and see how it goes.
I'll keep you all updated!

 

[Kangaroo]

Just in case anyones has the same problem, after some research I found the uni joints weren’t phased correctly, my stuff up. Removed them and install in the correct orientation and all good, simple fix!