QuestionQUESTION: I own a Ford Tractor...it's blue 1510. I let a friend use it, and now when you try to drive it, it makes a strange clicking noise, and then...the front wheels lock up and just drag....total bummer.
So, is some fluid low, or did my friend screw up my baby?
ANSWER: Hello,
If both wheels lock up and not just one, then I will assume that it is a 4 wheel drive model. In that case, the front differential has failed and will need to be removed and repaired. It's not something that your friend could really screw up. It was probably on the verge of failing for a while already. Drain the oil out of the front axle and examine it. You will probably see metal particles in it
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QUESTION: My posi-traction pedal doesn't function any longer....the rear end of the tractor has been in locked for some time....would this change your opinion....or are these two separate problems?
AnswerHello,
This would be a totally different issue not related to the front wheels locking up. If the diff lock is on all the time, this will make the rear wheels turn together at the same speed and will not allow one wheel to turn faster or slower than the other. This will give better traction, but make it very hard to turn corners because the tractor wants to go straight. Possibly the pedal is stuck in the engaged position. See if you can lubricate the pivot or linkage and work it free.
For the other problem, jack up the front of the tractor so the front wheels are off the ground. With the 4wd lever disengaged, try to turn the front wheels one at a time, and then together. You should be able to feel if something is wrong and hear the clicking noise that it makes when you try to drive it. It is most likely the front differential bearings.
