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The New Holland LS185B is a mid‑size skid steer loader built for construction, landscaping, farming and utility work, with many units produced in the 1990s through the 2000s. It features a 3.4 L three‑cylinder diesel engine (~72–78 hp) that provides dependable power for worksite tasks, and a hydrostatic drive with a 2‑speed option that lets the machine operate at lower speed for torque or higher speed for travel.
The 2‑speed function is especially useful: in low range the machine delivers maximum traction and torque, ideal for digging or climbing, while high range increases travel speed (approx. up to ~7–11 mph) for moving between sites. When this system doesn’t work properly — for example, when the machine won’t shift back into low range after going into high range — it can leave operators frustrated and equipment under‑utilized.
Terminology and Function
Before diving into diagnostics, understanding a few terms helps:
• 2‑Speed System — Allows switching between two travel speed bands (low and high) in the hydrostatic transmission for greater versatility.
• Foot Control / Drive Stick — Operator control that commands direction and speed.
• Switch & Solenoid — Electrical and hydraulic components that enable the 2‑speed function.
• Hydrostatic Transmission — A fluid‑powered system where hydraulic pumps and motors drive the wheels.
• Fuse / Wiring Harness — Electrical protection and wiring pathways that deliver power to switches and solenoid valves.
In the LS185B, a dedicated 2‑speed switch signals a solenoid valve to change internal hydraulic flow, effectively shifting ranges. When everything functions normally, moving the switch while the machine is running engages or disengages high or low range without needing to stop engine operation.
Symptoms of a 2 Speed Failure
A typical symptom reported by operators is:
• The skid steer only shifts into high range after start‑up using the switch.
• It will not shift back to low range while running unless the machine is shut off and restarted.
This behavior indicates the system isn’t seeing the correct command or power supply to engage low range — often an electrical or control issue rather than a mechanical transmission failure.
Common Causes
Electrical and Wiring Issues
• Fuse or Power Loss to the Switch — If the switch isn’t getting 12 V power, the system cannot command a shift. Lack of power to the 2‑speed switch is a known root cause in many loaders with two‑speed features.
• Damaged or Corroded Wiring Harness — Wires that have been worn, pinched or corroded lose continuity and fail to deliver proper signals.
• Faulty Switch or Connection — Even if a switch has been replaced, loose or oxidized terminals can prevent proper signal transmission.
Solenoid / Control Component Issues
• Solenoid Valve Not Energizing — The solenoid that physically shifts the hydrostatic range may not receive power or may have failed internally. Testing solenoid resistance and applying 12 V directly can verify function.
• Hydrostatic Control Valve Problems — Worn or sticking valves inside the hydrostatic unit may inhibit range change despite correct electrical commands.
Hydrostatic System Logic or Safety Lockout
• Some skid steers lock out 2‑speed actuation under certain conditions (e.g., PTO engaged, parking brake not set, or safety interlocks not satisfied). While unlikely given the reported symptom, improper safety wiring can confuse the control logic.
Step‑by‑Step Diagnostic Guide
An owner in South Dakota replaced a weak drive motor only to find the LS185B would not shift back into low range once shifted to high. They checked fuses, swapped the switch, and visually inspected wiring — all without solving the problem, pointing toward deeper electrical or control circuit issues. Another technician reported that lack of 12 V to the shift switch on some New Holland models is a known failure pattern; restoring power ahead of the switch often returns two‑speed capability.
Solutions and Recommendations
• Start at the Power Source — Always begin with basic checks: battery condition, fuse panel, and power to the switch.
• Use Service Manuals — Factory service manuals (available for LS185B series) contain wiring diagrams and solenoid testing procedures that reduce guesswork.
• Protect Wiring Harnesses — After repair, secure harnesses away from sharp edges and high‑heat areas to avoid future failures.
• Consult Dealer Diagnostics — Some electrical faults benefit from dealer diagnostic tools capable of reading controller logic and fault codes.
Tip List for Preventive Maintenance
• Inspect electrical connections every 250–500 operating hours.
• Clean and apply dielectric grease to plug terminals to prevent corrosion.
• Check harness routing after any service that involves panels or drive components.
Conclusion
A 2‑speed shifting issue on a New Holland LS185B skid steer — where it won’t return to low range without shutting down — is typically a control circuit or electrical power problem affecting the shift switch or solenoid. By systematically checking fuses, wiring, switch integrity, and solenoid operation, most problems can be isolated and corrected. Preventive attention to electrical connections and understanding how hydrostatic drive components interact will help keep the 2‑speed feature functioning reliably across varied jobsite conditions.
Key Specs for Context
• Engine Output: ~72–78 hp (diesel).
• Hydraulic Flow: ~19–34 gpm.
• Operating Weight: ~6,400–7,300 lb.
• Max Travel Speed: ~6.9 mph low, ~11.3 mph high (approx).
The 2‑speed function is especially useful: in low range the machine delivers maximum traction and torque, ideal for digging or climbing, while high range increases travel speed (approx. up to ~7–11 mph) for moving between sites. When this system doesn’t work properly — for example, when the machine won’t shift back into low range after going into high range — it can leave operators frustrated and equipment under‑utilized.
Terminology and Function
Before diving into diagnostics, understanding a few terms helps:
• 2‑Speed System — Allows switching between two travel speed bands (low and high) in the hydrostatic transmission for greater versatility.
• Foot Control / Drive Stick — Operator control that commands direction and speed.
• Switch & Solenoid — Electrical and hydraulic components that enable the 2‑speed function.
• Hydrostatic Transmission — A fluid‑powered system where hydraulic pumps and motors drive the wheels.
• Fuse / Wiring Harness — Electrical protection and wiring pathways that deliver power to switches and solenoid valves.
In the LS185B, a dedicated 2‑speed switch signals a solenoid valve to change internal hydraulic flow, effectively shifting ranges. When everything functions normally, moving the switch while the machine is running engages or disengages high or low range without needing to stop engine operation.
Symptoms of a 2 Speed Failure
A typical symptom reported by operators is:
• The skid steer only shifts into high range after start‑up using the switch.
• It will not shift back to low range while running unless the machine is shut off and restarted.
This behavior indicates the system isn’t seeing the correct command or power supply to engage low range — often an electrical or control issue rather than a mechanical transmission failure.
Common Causes
Electrical and Wiring Issues
• Fuse or Power Loss to the Switch — If the switch isn’t getting 12 V power, the system cannot command a shift. Lack of power to the 2‑speed switch is a known root cause in many loaders with two‑speed features.
• Damaged or Corroded Wiring Harness — Wires that have been worn, pinched or corroded lose continuity and fail to deliver proper signals.
• Faulty Switch or Connection — Even if a switch has been replaced, loose or oxidized terminals can prevent proper signal transmission.
Solenoid / Control Component Issues
• Solenoid Valve Not Energizing — The solenoid that physically shifts the hydrostatic range may not receive power or may have failed internally. Testing solenoid resistance and applying 12 V directly can verify function.
• Hydrostatic Control Valve Problems — Worn or sticking valves inside the hydrostatic unit may inhibit range change despite correct electrical commands.
Hydrostatic System Logic or Safety Lockout
• Some skid steers lock out 2‑speed actuation under certain conditions (e.g., PTO engaged, parking brake not set, or safety interlocks not satisfied). While unlikely given the reported symptom, improper safety wiring can confuse the control logic.
Step‑by‑Step Diagnostic Guide
- Power Supply Check
• Verify battery voltage (should be ~12.5–13.5 V at rest).
• Check the fuse panel for blown fuses (often a 10–30 A range for accessories/controls).
• Test for 12 V at the 2‑speed switch with a multimeter when the key is ON.
- Switch & Wiring Integrity
• Inspect the 2‑speed switch harness for physical damage, especially near the console or under panels where wires flex.
• Clean and tighten connectors to ensure good contact.
- Solenoid Test
• Locate the 2‑speed solenoid valve at the hydrostatic transmission.
• Apply 12 V directly to the solenoid coil and listen/feel for actuation; if it clicks and moves, the coil is likely good.
• If no actuation occurs, and wiring to the solenoid is verified intact, the solenoid may need replacement. Relevant service manuals detail coil resistance specifications for precise testing.
- Control Logic Conditions
• Ensure safety switches (seat/parking brake) and any interlocks are functioning; some machines will inhibit range change if safety logic is not satisfied.
An owner in South Dakota replaced a weak drive motor only to find the LS185B would not shift back into low range once shifted to high. They checked fuses, swapped the switch, and visually inspected wiring — all without solving the problem, pointing toward deeper electrical or control circuit issues. Another technician reported that lack of 12 V to the shift switch on some New Holland models is a known failure pattern; restoring power ahead of the switch often returns two‑speed capability.
Solutions and Recommendations
• Start at the Power Source — Always begin with basic checks: battery condition, fuse panel, and power to the switch.
• Use Service Manuals — Factory service manuals (available for LS185B series) contain wiring diagrams and solenoid testing procedures that reduce guesswork.
• Protect Wiring Harnesses — After repair, secure harnesses away from sharp edges and high‑heat areas to avoid future failures.
• Consult Dealer Diagnostics — Some electrical faults benefit from dealer diagnostic tools capable of reading controller logic and fault codes.
Tip List for Preventive Maintenance
• Inspect electrical connections every 250–500 operating hours.
• Clean and apply dielectric grease to plug terminals to prevent corrosion.
• Check harness routing after any service that involves panels or drive components.
Conclusion
A 2‑speed shifting issue on a New Holland LS185B skid steer — where it won’t return to low range without shutting down — is typically a control circuit or electrical power problem affecting the shift switch or solenoid. By systematically checking fuses, wiring, switch integrity, and solenoid operation, most problems can be isolated and corrected. Preventive attention to electrical connections and understanding how hydrostatic drive components interact will help keep the 2‑speed feature functioning reliably across varied jobsite conditions.
Key Specs for Context
• Engine Output: ~72–78 hp (diesel).
• Hydraulic Flow: ~19–34 gpm.
• Operating Weight: ~6,400–7,300 lb.
• Max Travel Speed: ~6.9 mph low, ~11.3 mph high (approx).
