Max II 86-87 tranny problems.

[Msommer]

Still have reverse and braking but no forward on left side. I pulled back on the stick to turn and a loud bang was heard, the bottom plunger is way out (1"). It seems to shift ok, no binding. I've had it a couple months, new chains bearings, and a new 23hp Van Guard, but don't know anything about the tranny. Probably got a lot of hours on it. From what I've found on this forum maybe a band broke? Would it be worth it to buy a re-built T-20 from Richard's Relics? Any help would be awesome being how I'm a newbie.

Also it was the first time out with new tires, so it had a lot more traction, if that may make a difference?

[Mike]

It does sound like you broke a band. No need to buy a new or rebuilt transmission as they are very simple to work on. You can purchase a new band from your local Max dealer or direct from the manufacturer (Amphibious Six-Wheel Drive All-Terrain Vehicles: MaxATVs - Call 1-800-255-2511) Also purchase a rebuild kit which includes all of the thrust washers, orings, gaskets, etc that you need. You can then follow the how-to for rebuilding your transmission found here:
How to rebuild a T20

George created a video on the process as well:
Rebuild Borg Warner Skid Steer T20


Edit:
As for your question regarding new tires and traction, that could have something to do with it if you lost traction and had a tire grab real quickly but most likely there was a flaw with that band and it was going to break anyway. I will link you to a video of Keith at our latest ride at Busco Beach. He was trying to climb a steep/short hill and when the machine landed on the back tire you can hear what I assumed was a band breaking in his T20. I don't remember if he ever let us know what happened but it sounds like that was what happened. You can see that his stick immediately went forward way more than it should: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...h07AEiI#t=441s

[thebuggyman1]

Post your location. I bet there is another member close to you that could help you rebuild yours. Remember: a few beers = cheap labor, and probably a new friend.

[Msommer]

Thanks Mike thats helps a bunch!! And Buggyman1 I am about on hour south of Kansas City on the Kansas side in Greeley, the zip is 66033. Beers new friends and a re built tranny sound good to me! Thanks again.

[thebuggyman1]

I know there are several members in your area, but none have put their locations on the members map (plug for map) https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=U...158.027344&z=3

Hopefully some of those members will see this and you will get a volunteer.

[onlyonce]

Mike as expected it was a band that I broke at Busco. Every time I have broken a band it has been where the band meets the eyelet. I believe that the thousands of cycles of constrict and relax causes some work hardening in that area. I am going to start a thread to see where bands are breaking for others, just curious.