Troubleshooting Jerky Motion in Gehl Skid Steers: A Comprehensive Guide

[MikePhua]

Experiencing jerky or bucking movements in a Gehl skid steer can be both frustrating and hazardous. Such erratic behavior not only compromises operational efficiency but also poses safety risks to the operator. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing corrective measures is crucial for restoring smooth performance.
Understanding the Causes of Jerky Motion
Several factors can contribute to jerky motion in Gehl skid steers:

1. Hydraulic System Issues: The hydraulic system is integral to the smooth operation of skid steers. Low or contaminated hydraulic fluid, air in the system, or worn-out components can lead to erratic movements.
   
2. Drive Motor Problems: Issues with the drive motors, such as worn bearings or damaged seals, can cause uneven power delivery, resulting in jerky motion.
   
3. Control Linkage Misalignment: Improperly adjusted or worn control linkages can lead to delayed or uneven responses to operator inputs.
   
4. Engine Mounts and Drive Components: Loose or damaged engine mounts, pulleys, or idler bearings can introduce vibrations and jerky movements during operation.
   

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
To address jerky motion in your Gehl skid steer, follow this systematic approach:

1. Inspect Hydraulic Fluid:
   • Check Fluid Levels: Ensure that the hydraulic fluid is at the recommended level. Low fluid levels can cause cavitation and erratic movements.
     
   • Assess Fluid Condition: Examine the fluid for contaminants or discoloration. Contaminated fluid can impair system performance.
     
   • Bleed the System: If air is suspected in the system, perform a bleed procedure to remove trapped air.
     
2. Examine Drive Motors:
   • Look for Leaks: Inspect the drive motors for hydraulic fluid leaks, which can indicate seal failure.
     
   • Listen for Unusual Noises: Unusual sounds may suggest bearing wear or internal damage.
     
   • Check for Vibration: Excessive vibration can be a sign of imbalance or internal component failure.
     
3. Assess Control Linkages:
   • Verify Alignment: Ensure that all control linkages are properly aligned and adjusted. Misalignment can cause delayed or uneven responses.
     
   • Inspect for Wear: Look for signs of wear or damage in the linkage components. Replace any worn parts as necessary.
     
4. Inspect Engine Mounts and Drive Components:
   • Check Engine Mounts: Ensure that all engine mounts are secure and free from damage. Loose or damaged mounts can cause vibrations.
     
   • Examine Pulleys and Bearings: Inspect pulleys and idler bearings for wear or damage. Replace any faulty components.
     

Additional Considerations

• Tire Pressure: Uneven tire pressure can lead to uneven traction, causing jerky movements. Ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's specifications.
  
• Operator Technique: Sudden or jerky movements by the operator can exacerbate the issue. Encourage smooth and deliberate control inputs.
  

Case Study: Resolving Jerky Motion in a Gehl 4635
A Gehl 4635 skid steer exhibited jerky motion during operation. Upon inspection, the following issues were identified:

• Hydraulic Fluid Contamination: The hydraulic fluid was found to be contaminated with debris.
  
• Drive Motor Seal Failure: One of the drive motor seals was leaking, leading to power loss.
  
• Control Linkage Misalignment: The control linkage was slightly misaligned, causing delayed responses.
  

The corrective actions taken included:

• Hydraulic Fluid Replacement: The contaminated fluid was drained and replaced with fresh, clean hydraulic fluid.
  
• Drive Motor Seal Replacement: The faulty seal was replaced, and the motor was reassembled.
  
• Control Linkage Adjustment: The control linkage was realigned and lubricated to ensure smooth operation.
  

After these repairs, the skid steer operated smoothly without any jerky movements.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To prevent future occurrences of jerky motion:

• Regularly Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels and Condition: Routine checks can help detect issues early.
  
• Perform Regular Inspections of Drive Motors and Linkages: Regular inspections can identify potential problems before they affect performance.
  
• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Regularly check and adjust tire pressure to ensure even traction.
  
• Encourage Smooth Operator Inputs: Training operators to use smooth and deliberate control inputs can reduce strain on the machine.
  

Conclusion
Jerky motion in Gehl skid steers can result from various factors, including hydraulic system issues, drive motor problems, control linkage misalignment, and engine mount or drive component failures. By systematically diagnosing and addressing these potential causes, operators can restore smooth operation and enhance the longevity of their equipment. Regular maintenance and operator training play pivotal roles in preventing such issues and ensuring optimal performance.