Because the clutch, transmission, and final drives receive such severe use, periodic maintenance is required to provide optimal transmission of power.
Engine Clutch
The clutch on most machines requires two services – lubricating the clutch release bearing and adjusting the clutch pedal free travel.
Lubrication
On most new machines, the clutch release bearing is in a pre-lubricated, sealed bearing and requires no further lubrication until a major service is done.
On some machines the foot clutch release bearing requires regular lubrication:
Locate the grease fitting and wipe clean.
Apply grease sparingly with one or two strokes of the grease gun.
Wipe off any excess grease from the fitting.
Adjustment
Adjustment of the clutch free travel is essentially the same for all non-hydraulic clutches whether they are single or multiple clutch plates, dry or wet type.
Adjust the clutch free travel by first checking your manual for the recommended free travel distance. This is the distance the pedal can be depressed before resistance is noticed. If the measurement check with those specified then no adjustment is necessary. If not, locate the pedal adjusting mechanism and adjust the linkage until the clutch pedal has the proper amount of free travel.
Many tractors have a two-stage clutch and you will need to consult the manual for how much to adjust the second stage. However, unless the clutch is badly out of adjustment, adjusting the first stage will probably be sufficient.
Servicing the Transmission and Differential
Check the transmission oil levels regularly and refill with the recommended oil of the proper viscosity. Drain and refill approximately every 1000 hours.
If the machine has a dipstick, remove it and wipe off the excess oil. Reinsert the dipstick completely and pull it out to check the oil level. On machines with an oil level plug, insert a finger to check if the oil is up to the proper level.
Draining and Refilling:
Drive the machine until you are certain the transmission fluid is well agitated and heated.
Park the machine on a level surface and remove the drain plugs, catching the old fluid in a container.
After all the fluid has drained out, clean the drain plugs and replace them.
Replace the transmission oil filter if there is one.
Clean any dirt and grease from the filler plug and then remove the plug.
Refill with the proper amount and type of transmission fluid.
Replace and tighten plugs.
