Subject: Broadmoor won't make the grade

[StanS]

I bought a used '94 model Broadmoor 14hp/38" with Hydro-gear transmission. When I mow my fairly
level front yard it does fine, but after a few passes on the 25 percent grade in the back yard the
tractor quits pulling. The transmission housing gets so hot I can't touch it and it blows fluid out the
vent. All external adjustments are correct (brake, PTO, belts) and I have performed the air purging
procedure and maintain the fluid level (20-50 oil). The belt is not slipping. Shouldn,t this lawn
tractor pull this grade without problems? I'd like to change the oil and filter but that's so much
trouble I may as well rebuild. Any suggestions? Thanks.

[Guest]

Has it always done this as long as you have owned it? Does it stay cool as long as its kept on the level ground? How long do you use it on level ground before trying the grade? I beleive you have internal brake discs - they can stick and cause excessive drag and heat buildup. Also stop on the steepest part of the grade after warmed up and see if the vent is still clear or if oil is approaching.

[john]

Thanks for the response (I started to think nobody cared). You are right on with your answer. According to the factory that's the first thing to look for. If that's the problem you can simply spray WD40 on those exposed brake components to loosen them up - assuming the brakes are properly adjusted. However this did not help in my case. To make a long story short - if you need repairs on the inside the factory and dealer agree that it's easiest and just about as cheap(?) to buy a new transmission. So I laid down my $500 and it should arrive tomorrow. Apparently they have had enough trouble with this Hydro-gear that they have been forced to beef it up. At least now I will have the new traction control system. I'll comment on that after I give it a try.

[Fred]

... down so fast that they are overlooked. That's why it was reposted. Jeff does give "good tech", doesn't he? He is understandably busy, since he is one of the Simplicity dealers on site.
Good luck with the tractor.
Fred

[Kent]

Installed the new transmission and now I can mow the hills with ease. My first impression is beginning to fade. Lawn looks great! (By the way - Simplicity means simple to work on too.)