M4700 power issue??

[Watzuki]

Hi everyone,

Figured I’d turn to the masses before I have to shell out too much money getting this to a professional or dealer.

m4700 that’s been running like a dream for decades. Recently, it’s seems we’re not getting a lot of power output. Struggles climbing hills and in high gear there’s no uptick in speed in 3rd or 4th. Just slow overall. Gear shift is a bit loose and there’s a lag between shifting and the wheels actually moving. Engine doesn’t stutter or seem to be struggling even at the slow speeds.

things I’ve tried:
- fuel: tank and fuel filter look good. No obstruction
- blew out the air filter, grid and the cover
- changed engine oil

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

[Fedup]

I'm not sure why, (maybe it's just how you phrased it) but that sounds more like a clutch slipping issue than a low power problem.

 

[Russell King]

One other odd problem people have is low air pressure in the tires that lets the tires spin on the rims. Lowers power transfer to the ground. So check tire pressure just to be sure.

 

[Watzuki]

I'm not sure why, (maybe it's just how you phrased it) but that sounds more like a clutch slipping issue than a low power problem.

Fair point. Would a clutch slipping issue impact the ability to climb hills as well? If so, that could definitely be my problem. From a repair standpoint is it something I can get to without splitting the tractor? I have the technician manual but it doesn’t give too much detail on access.

To the other response, I will check the tire pressure and see if that is also a problem!

 

[Fedup]

Fair point. Would a clutch slipping issue impact the ability to climb hills as well? If so, that could definitely be my problem. From a repair standpoint is it something I can get to without splitting the tractor? I have the technician manual but it doesn’t give too much detail on access.

To the other response, I will check the tire pressure and see if that is also a problem!

If you have the repair manual, read up on the procedure for clutch pedal free play adjustment. That would be good starting point.

Access to the clutch/pressure plate without a tractor split? Afraid not. MAYBE it's out of free play and the clutch still has some life left. Depends how long you've been running it like this (among other things) but I would certainly start there.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Second sound like a clutch issue.
You will need to split it to fix it.

 

[GeoHorn]

I have a M4700 also….and I paid my way thru college and flight-school working as a new car-dealership mechanic….. and am well-equipped with tools, air compressor, impacts, and shop and jacks and lifts and all the stuff necessary to do this job…. and if my clutch ever gives-out….. I’m taking it to the dealer.
Not interested in spitting my tractor myself.

(and if you do this job…. don’t take short-cuts…. Replace the Clutch, the throw-out bearing, the pilot bearing, the pressure-plates, and very carefully consider that flywheel also and maybe the rear oll seals. You don’t want to have to do this job twice. JMO/YMMV)

And don’t buy aftermarket parts either. Get the genuine Kubota parts.