Need advice on possible sc252 clutch problem or other....

[arbor pro]

wondering if someone can advise...

my 252 just got serviced by my local mechanic. I've been way to busy to do my own maintenance so said the heck with it and had him do a few things including fluid and filter changes, belt replacement and spark plugs. He also checked the rpms on the engine as it seemed to really peak at times and I was afraid of engine damage.

Anyhow - got the machine back and it worked fine for a few stumps. now, the cutter wheel seems to really bog down and stop easily. The engine does not bog down and there is only very slight belt squeal. If the new belts were slipping, I would expect excessive squealing when the wheel bogged down. And, since the engine rpms don't change at all, I don't think it's pulling down on the engine like it usually does. I'm wondering if it's the clutch and what to do to test it?

Also, don't think it's bearings siezing up as the wheel seems to free spin fine when you disengage the clutch. Also, the clutch seems to engage a bit slower than it used to. That's why I'm leaning towards a problem with the clutch.

any advice on what the problem is and how to test, fix it?

AP

 

[Plyscamp]

With the engine off and the key on, flip the clutch engagement switch on and off. You should hear a definate and very audible click as the clutch engages and disengages, If it is relativly quite the clutch is done. I notice your location is SD, If that is San Diego and not South Dakota there is a guy in El Cajon that rebuilds them for about 50% the cost of a new one.

 

[arbor pro]

With the engine off and the key on, flip the clutch engagement switch on and off. You should hear a definate and very audible click as the clutch engages and disengages, If it is relativly quite the clutch is done. I notice your location is SD, If that is San Diego and not South Dakota there is a guy in El Cajon that rebuilds them for about 50% the cost of a new one.

It's the other SD. Thanks for the help. I don't know who I'd get in my town to rebuild a clutch - maybe a lawnmower shop? Might end up buying a new clutch. Is Vermeer the only place to get one from?

AP

 

[Plyscamp]

Yeah Ogura does not sell clutches or clutch parts to the aftermarket only OEM's.

 

[Mike W]

I'm not sure if you have found the problem yet, but I would sure look at the cutter wheel belt. We have to re-tension our 252's 3 or 4 times after we change the belt. It's sure a cheaper place to start than with Vermeer's over priced clutch!

Mike

 

[arbor pro]

I'm not sure if you have found the problem yet, but I would sure look at the cutter wheel belt. We have to re-tension our 252's 3 or 4 times after we change the belt. It's sure a cheaper place to start than with Vermeer's over priced clutch!

Mike

Yeah, that was the problem. Cutter belt just kept on stretching but it's keeping tension now and working good. thanks.

AP