Diagnosing and Fixing Weak Travel Problems in the New Holland LX70 Wheel Loader

[MikePhua]

The New Holland LX70 Wheel Loader is a versatile machine widely used in various construction and material handling applications. However, like any piece of heavy machinery, it can face performance issues over time, including problems with travel power. A common issue many owners and operators face is weak travel or a loader that struggles to maintain its speed and performance under load.
This article explores the causes of weak travel in the New Holland LX70, how to diagnose the problem, and the steps to take in order to resolve it effectively. Whether you're dealing with sluggish acceleration, difficulty in maintaining speed, or weak travel in general, understanding the root cause is essential for repairing the issue.
What is Weak Travel in a Wheel Loader?
Weak travel refers to a situation where the wheel loader has difficulty moving or maintaining a consistent speed when traveling across flat or inclined surfaces. This can manifest in several ways:

• Slow Acceleration: The loader struggles to gain speed when moving.
  
• Inconsistent Speed: The loader may lose momentum or fail to maintain a constant speed, even under light loads.
  
• Reduced Power: The loader’s travel power is noticeably weaker when compared to usual performance, especially under load.
  

In the case of the New Holland LX70, weak travel could be related to issues within the drivetrain, the hydraulic system, or the engine itself.
Common Causes of Weak Travel in the New Holland LX70
Several factors can contribute to weak travel problems in the New Holland LX70 wheel loader. Below are some common causes and the components that may be responsible.
1. Hydraulic System Issues
The hydraulic system plays a crucial role in powering the travel motors and transmission, making it one of the first systems to check when dealing with weak travel. Issues within the hydraulic system could include:

• Low Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Insufficient fluid can cause a drop in pressure, resulting in reduced power to the travel motors. Make sure the hydraulic fluid levels are within the recommended range.
  
• Hydraulic Pump Failure: A malfunctioning hydraulic pump can result in low pressure, directly affecting the loader’s ability to travel efficiently.
  
• Clogged or Damaged Hydraulic Filters: Clogged filters can restrict fluid flow and reduce pressure, impacting the loader’s travel performance. Over time, filters should be replaced or cleaned to maintain fluidity.
  

2. Transmission Problems
The transmission in the New Holland LX70 is another critical component that can cause weak travel if not functioning properly. Possible issues include:

• Worn or Damaged Transmission Components: Over time, the internal components of the transmission can wear out, leading to slippage or inefficient power transfer.
  
• Low Transmission Fluid: Just like the hydraulic system, the transmission needs adequate fluid levels to function properly. Low fluid can result in overheating and poor performance.
  
• Transmission Filter Issues: A blocked or dirty transmission filter can impair the proper flow of fluid through the transmission, resulting in sluggish travel.
  

3. Engine Power Issues
The engine is the primary power source for the wheel loader. If the engine is not generating sufficient power, the loader will struggle to move effectively. Potential engine-related issues include:

• Fuel System Problems: Clogged fuel filters, a malfunctioning fuel pump, or poor fuel quality can all prevent the engine from delivering enough power for the loader to move efficiently.
  
• Turbocharger Malfunction: If the turbocharger is malfunctioning, the engine will not be able to deliver the additional boost needed for maximum power, leading to weak travel.
  
• Air Intake Blockage: A clogged air filter or an obstruction in the air intake system can limit the amount of air the engine receives, causing it to operate inefficiently.
  

4. Differential or Axle Problems
The differential and axles play a significant role in ensuring the loader’s wheels move in sync with each other. Any damage or wear to these components can lead to weak travel. Issues to check include:

• Damaged or Worn Differential Gears: If the differential gears are worn or damaged, the loader may not be able to transfer power evenly between the wheels, resulting in sluggish movement.
  
• Broken or Worn Axles: A broken axle or a worn-out axle bearing can also cause weak travel by reducing the efficiency of the wheel’s rotation.
  

Steps to Diagnose Weak Travel in the LX70
Diagnosing weak travel in a New Holland LX70 requires a methodical approach to isolate the cause of the issue. Here are the key steps involved in diagnosing the problem:

1. Check Hydraulic Fluid Levels and Condition: Start by inspecting the hydraulic fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or contaminated, top it up with the appropriate type of fluid and check if the problem persists.
   
2. Inspect the Hydraulic Pump and Filters: Listen for any unusual noises coming from the hydraulic pump. If the pump is making a whining noise or not providing adequate pressure, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, inspect the filters for clogs and replace them if necessary.
   
3. Examine the Transmission Fluid: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or dirty, change it and see if it improves the loader's performance. If the problem persists, you may need to investigate deeper into the transmission for possible mechanical failures.
   
4. Test the Engine’s Performance: Perform a diagnostic check on the engine. Verify fuel pressure, check for clogged air filters, and inspect the turbocharger for any damage or performance issues.
   
5. Inspect the Differential and Axles: Look for signs of damage or wear in the differential and axles. If any components are damaged, they should be replaced immediately.
   

Repair and Solution: Fixing Weak Travel
Once the problem has been diagnosed, the next step is to take corrective action. Here are some possible solutions based on the identified cause:

• Hydraulic System: If low fluid levels are the issue, top up the hydraulic system. If the problem is caused by a faulty pump, the pump should be replaced. Clean or replace hydraulic filters if necessary.
  
• Transmission: For issues with the transmission, start by changing the transmission fluid and replacing the filter. If internal damage is suspected, a more in-depth repair or replacement of transmission components may be required.
  
• Engine: If the engine is not providing enough power, address the fuel system, turbocharger, or air intake system. Clean or replace filters, fix any fuel flow issues, and inspect the turbocharger for damage.
  
• Differential or Axles: Replace damaged or worn-out differential gears or axles. This will ensure that power is evenly distributed across the wheels, restoring the loader’s travel performance.
  

Conclusion
Weak travel in the New Holland LX70 Wheel Loader can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with the hydraulic system, transmission, engine, or differential. Diagnosing and fixing the issue requires a thorough understanding of the machine's components and a methodical approach to pinpoint the root cause. By following the steps outlined in this article, operators and fleet managers can efficiently identify and resolve travel issues, restoring the machine’s full functionality and ensuring optimal performance on the job site.