| Author |
Message |
    
Jack Irwin
New member
Username: Dexterkid
Post Number: 1
Registered: 04-2005
Posted From: 24.247.201.134
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, May 23, 2005 - 09:04 pm: | |
I recently purchased a used 1994 Max II and I need help with the procedure for shifting gears. My problem with shifting is while the engine is running. When I try to shift from neutral to reverse I can feel the gears turning and am afraid to force the shift into gear. I have both levers back as the manual states. What am I doing wrong? Should I also be rocking the vehicle back and forth at this time?
Another question; should I remove the lever’s return springs? I was told that most people remove these springs. Being a senior I can say that holding the levers back while shifting would be easier without the springs.
Thank you,
Jack |
Charlie Richmond
New member
Username: Csrichmond
Post Number: 4
Registered: 02-2005
Posted From: 206.66.249.2
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 24, 2005 - 08:38 am: | |
I had the same problem after rebuilding my '86 MAX II this winter.
I re-adjusted the belt tension (looser), the "grinding" stopped and I could shift easier.
I've also found that just "jiggling" one stick or the other helps to slide into gear.
I'd leave the lever springs on and be sure they have adequate tension to keep you moving forward without having to press the levers forward all the time. |
Fred Sowerwine, Montana's Max dealer
Intermediate Member
Username: Fred4dot
Post Number: 63
Registered: 01-2005
Posted From: 216.166.168.53
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 24, 2005 - 10:34 am: | |
Jack, It sounds like your engine RPMs are too high or your drive belt too tight. Check the pulley on the tranny and make sure it is not moving when idled down and trying to shift. If it is engine speed, you can adjust it a little by moving the throttle cable where it attaches to the governor at the carb. When the engine is off, make sure the drive belt is loose enough that you can slide it around the pulleys by hand (no tension). If the belt is wrong, you will need to buy a new one. If the engine needs adjustment, follow your Briggs manual or take it to a service center. If the gears are turning, you will damage things by forcing it. When the gears aren't turning is when you need to body rock the machine to get them to line up (when the gears are not turning and not lined up, you will bend your linkage by forcing it). I would advice shutting it off to shift until you figure out what the problem is.
I don't advise taking off the steering lateral springs but it won't hurt anything to do it. If you do, you will need to remember to put forward pressure on the laterals when you are going forward, especially when going up hill. In the long run, it will require much more effort to operate the machine with the springs removed. The tranny bands need to be fully engaged except when you intend to turn. If your hand is big enough, open it and pull both levers at the same time to the middle of their travel while shifting. I try to have the tranny in internal neutral and also try to shift just as I am coming to a stop.
Welcome to the world of skid steers. There is a learning curve and everything gets better the more you do it. |
Jack Irwin
New member
Username: Dexterkid
Post Number: 2
Registered: 04-2005
Posted From: 24.247.201.134
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, May 26, 2005 - 10:46 am: | |
Guys, thanks for the advice. I have been shutting down to shift and now that you gave me the reason for my problem I will take care of it. It may be a few weeks but I will not drive the ATV until I correct the problem. Also, you have convinced me to leave the lateral springs on. Thanks again,
Jack |
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