Hi all, reposting my question here on the Ford board:
I just bought a Ford 231 model number BL253C built in June 1979. I understand that it should have an 8 speed trans with a dual clutch (aka live PTO). But with a 41 year old machine how can I know for sure? The tractor acts like it has a transmission PTO as both the trans and PTO are either engaged or disengaged with no apparent middle position where the PTO is engaged and the trans is not. The PTO goes in and out of gear OK with the clutch depressed fully, as does the trans.
The transmission clutch is solid, no slipping. I had done the 2x4 friction test on the PTO when I bought it but had no implement available to properly load test it. Now I've connected it to a bush hog and the PTO is slowing to a stop when I load up the cutter. Engine and trans speed is not effected. So it appears likely that I do indeed have a dual clutch system with a failing PTO clutch, and it looks like I will need to split the tractor.
I have one question first: is there any way to confirm that I have the dual clutch setup without splitting the tractor?
Thanks!
I just bought a Ford 231 model number BL253C built in June 1979. I understand that it should have an 8 speed trans with a dual clutch (aka live PTO). But with a 41 year old machine how can I know for sure? The tractor acts like it has a transmission PTO as both the trans and PTO are either engaged or disengaged with no apparent middle position where the PTO is engaged and the trans is not. The PTO goes in and out of gear OK with the clutch depressed fully, as does the trans.
The transmission clutch is solid, no slipping. I had done the 2x4 friction test on the PTO when I bought it but had no implement available to properly load test it. Now I've connected it to a bush hog and the PTO is slowing to a stop when I load up the cutter. Engine and trans speed is not effected. So it appears likely that I do indeed have a dual clutch system with a failing PTO clutch, and it looks like I will need to split the tractor.
I have one question first: is there any way to confirm that I have the dual clutch setup without splitting the tractor?
Thanks!