Ford 5640 SL

[wicomico]

Looking at a Ford 5640 SL with cab - 2wd. It grinds when shifting between forward/reverse. The clutch will stop the tractor - but it is as if the clutch won't "slow down" the transmission or stop the spinning. On further investigation -the clutch cable is broken. I have looked up the parts diagram, part is not too expensive or difficult to replace - but I have to buy it "as is". Question is does anyone know the purpose of the "clutch cable"? Does it act as some kind of transmission brake or is there likely a bigger problem. It is the 12 x 12 transmission. Clutch master cylinder was also leaking and I see a rebuild kit is available for that. It will shift thru the ranges and gears, just the F/R grinds. Trying to determine the chances if the cable is the simple fix or if the cable being broken is a result or sign of a bigger issue. Tractor has 4000 hours. No other apparent mechanical/engine issues and in otherwise good shape. Any insight much appreciated.
Thanks

 

[RodinNS]

The cable... IIRC, is an interlock cable to prevent you from shifting if the clutch isn't disengaged. I would say you have a clutch problem and it's not fully disengaging... that's why you get he grinding. The 12x12 will speed shift between gears and ranges for a while if the clutch is sort of disengaged but it won't make the F/R shift without a full disengagement. You may have a leaking cylinder since it is a hydraulic master/slave dry clutch. However... you may also have a bunch of wear in the clutch pivot pins and return springs. One quick check you can do... pull the pedal up with your toe and hold it up, then disengage the clutch and see if it shifts cleanly. If the pedal doesn't fully return home then the master doesn't displace enough fluid to disengage the clutch on the release stroke.. I've got a TS doing that now. It just needs a new pivot bushing and some pins in the pedal...

Rod