Cub Cadet 8404 manual Check While Operating, Travel Speeds

CHECK WHILE OPERATING

While operating the tractor, regularly check the gauges and warning lights on the instrument panel to ensure the tractor is functioning properly.

Coolant Temperature Light

Regularly check that the gauge needle is within the normal operating range. If the needle moves into the red section (overheat) of the gauge, stop the tractor immediately and check for the following causes:

WARNING: After the engine has been running for a short period, the radiator, muffler, engine block, and any metal surface in close proximity to the engine will be HOT. Allow these areas to cool and use extreme caution to avoid burning yourself.

WARNING: Do not remove the radiator cap until the coolant temperature is below its boiling point. Then carefully loosen the cap to its first stop to relieve any pressure before completely removing the cap .

•Check the coolant level. If coolant is low check for possible cause, such as a radiator or hose leak.

•Check for debris on the screen in front of the radiator. Also check the passages between the radiator cooling fins for accumulations of dust, dirt, or debris.

•Check for a loose fan drive belt.

•Check for internal radiator blockage.

Engine Oil Pressure Lamp

The oil pressure lamp alerts the operator that the engine oil pressure is below the prescribed level. If the lamp should light during operation, stop the engine immediately.

•Check the engine oil level.

•If the oil level within the operating range, contact your Cub Cadet dealer.

NOTE: If the engine is left running at idle speed for a prolonged period, the oil pressure lamp may light. This does not indicate a problem with the engine, but this situation should be avoided.

Battery Charge Lamp

The battery charge lamp alerts the operator that the alternator in not charging the battery. If the lamp should light during operation, stop the engine immediately.

•Loose wire connections at the alternator and regulator.

•Loose wiring harness connections.

•Loose alternator drive belt.

•Loose or corroded connections at the battery.

Fuel Gauge

Regularly check the fuel gauge. Do not allow the fuel tank to empty completely. If the tractor runs out of fuel, air is allowed to enter the fuel system, which could cause the engine to run poorly after refueling. If this happens, the fuel system should be bled prior to restarting the engine (refer to MAINTENANCE in this manual).

Observed Problems

The engine should be stopped immediately and the tractor checked if any of the following are observed while operating the tractor.

•The engine suddenly slows down or speeds up.

•Unusual noises are suddenly heard.

•The engine exhaust suddenly and for no apparent reason becomes very dark .

NOTE: The engine exhaust is normally colorless. If the tractor is overloaded the exhaust may become darker until the load is reduced. Try to avoid this situation. Operating the tractor in a prolonged overloaded condition may cause damage to tractor components.

TRAVEL SPEEDS

Using combinations of shift positions for the main shifter, Hi-Lo shifter, and forward/reverse shifter, the tractor can be placed in any of eight speeds in forward and eight speeds in reverse.

•Fully depress the clutch pedal before shifting any of the transmission shift levers.

•Do not shift the Hi-Lo range shifter while the tractor is moving. Stop the tractor before shifting.

•At the rated engine speed (approx. 2600 RPM) with standard tires, the approximate speeds are as follows:

Fwd./Rev.	Hi-Lo	Main Gear	Approx. Speed
Position	Position	Position	mph (kph)
		1	1.1	(1.8)
	Low	2	1.5	(2.4)
		3	2.3	(3.8)
Forward		4	3.4	(5.5)
		1	4.8	(7.7)
	High	2	6.6 (10.7)
		3	10.3	(16.6)
		4	15.0	(24.3)
		1	1.0	(1.6)
	Low	2	1.4	(2.3)
		3	2.2	(3.5)
Reverse		4	3.2	(5.1)
		1	4.4	(7.1)
	High	2	6.1	(9.9)
		3	9.5 (15.3)
		4	13.9	(22.4)

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