Diagnosing 4x4 Failure on the Ford 1710 Compact Tractor

[MikePhua]

Overview of the Ford 1710 Series
The Ford 1710 compact tractor was part of Ford’s 10-series lineup produced in the early 1980s, manufactured by Shibaura in Japan and marketed globally under the Ford brand. With a three-cylinder diesel engine producing around 26 horsepower and optional four-wheel drive, the 1710 was widely used for small-scale farming, landscaping, and municipal maintenance. Its mechanical transmission and gear-driven front axle made it durable and relatively easy to service, but like many aging machines, drivetrain issues can emerge—especially in the 4x4 system.
Common Symptoms of 4x4 Failure
Operators typically notice the front wheels failing to engage under load, especially in muddy or uneven terrain. In some cases, the rear wheels spin freely while the front axle remains passive. This can be caused by:

• A worn or stripped driveline coupler between the transmission and front differential
  
• A broken front driveshaft spline
  
• Internal failure in the front differential or axle housing
  
• A disengaged or damaged 4x4 selector mechanism
  

One operator reported a complete loss of 4x4 function and was advised that the issue might be a simple coupler failure. However, accessing the coupler requires removing the driveline housing, which raises concerns about hydraulic fluid loss and component exposure.
Safe Inspection and Disassembly
Before pulling the driveline housing, it’s essential to:

• Lift all four tires off the ground using jack stands or a lift to safely test wheel rotation
  
• Engage and disengage the 4x4 lever while observing front wheel behavior
  
• Rotate the rear wheels manually and watch for movement in the front driveshaft
  

If the front shaft does not rotate, the issue is likely upstream—either in the coupler or transmission output. If the shaft spins but the wheels do not, the fault lies in the front axle or differential.
To inspect the coupler:

• Drain the hydraulic fluid to avoid spillage
  
• Remove the driveline housing bolts and gently slide the housing back
  
• Inspect the coupler splines for wear, cracks, or complete separation
  
• Check for missing roll pins or retaining clips
  

Transmission Type and Manual Reference
The Ford 1710 was offered with both manual gear transmissions and hydrostatic drive in later variants. The manual version uses a mechanical linkage to engage 4x4, while hydrostatic models may use hydraulic actuation. In this case, the tractor was confirmed to have a manual transmission, simplifying diagnosis.
Operators are advised to obtain a factory service manual, which covers both transmission types and includes exploded diagrams of the driveline assembly. These manuals are still available online and provide torque specs, part numbers, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Preventive Maintenance and Long-Term Solutions
To prevent future 4x4 failures:

• Grease the front driveshaft splines annually
  
• Inspect coupler alignment during seasonal service
  
• Replace worn tires to maintain traction balance—uneven tire size can strain the 4x4 system
  
• Check fluid levels and seals around the front differential and transmission output
  

One owner of a Ford 1715, a close cousin to the 1710, reported excellent maneuverability and reliability after replacing all four tires for $1,000 and performing a full driveline inspection. The tractor returned to full 4x4 function and was used for orchard maintenance in hilly terrain.
Conclusion
Loss of 4x4 function in the Ford 1710 is often caused by a worn driveline coupler or misaligned shaft. With careful inspection, proper lifting techniques, and reference to the service manual, most issues can be resolved without major disassembly. For compact tractor owners, understanding the mechanical linkages and maintaining driveline integrity is key to keeping these versatile machines working in all conditions.