Tractor Repair: MF 2705, series tractors, poppets

Question
Big Dean,

My 1985 MF-2705 has started losing power while operating. It has low hours and was completely serviced in the fall with no problems found. I can no longer start it in any gear except low 1,2 or 3 and the rpm's have to been very high to get it going. Its like the parking break is on or the clutch is partially depressed? Also not sure if its related, but occasionally the left rear tires lock up and I need to tap the brakes for it to fix itself. Any advice would be greatly appreciated / were there any common issues on the 2705 that you know about related to these problems?

Thanks
-Chad

Answer
Hi Chad
  If you have the 24 speed transmission when the piston O-rings in the power shift part of the transmission start leaking by they will do like that in high & low range but will not do it in intermediate. Also there was a recall on them when they were new on the brake control there was some little poppets in the brake control that would mushroom causing the brakes to lock up it sounds like that might be your problem. I don't have a book on the 2000 series tractors or I could send you a picture of those poppets. Hope this helps my email is daustin62@aol.com if you would like to contact me Big Dean