T-20 shifting issues

[PLANTC]

I need help with the my T-20 in my Attex. We changed the motor to a 15hp Kohler 4 stroke. The conversion has gone very smooth with all the help from everyone here. We changed the transmission fluid and added the ATF to refill. When the machine was a 2-stroke machine the transmission worked fine. The first test as a four stroke machine it worked fine. The second test as a four stroke machine. The trans is grinding shifting from foward to reverse. With reverse being difficult to engage. The idle isn't quite right on the 4 stroke and the driver is staying engaged on the belt. Could this be causing the shifting problem. The trans shifts with without and problems when the machine isn't running. It doesn't hang up at all. When driving it the trans engages both sides and turns correctly. The grinding is really bothering me and I don't know how to stop it. Any help?

[hydromike]

You really need to get the engine idle speed down in order to shift. There's likely nothing wrong with the transmission, but there soon will be if you continue to grind the gears. The shift collars only hold up so long to this before you wear down or break the teeth on the collar or the drum. Do whatever is necessary to get the engine idle down, and I bet the symptoms will disappear.

[PLANTC]

I thought that it might be the problem,but I wasnt' completely sure I will give it a try tonight and let you know.

[jpswift1]

Mike is absolutely right. You need to, no exceptions, get that engine to idle low so you can shift gears. Continuously trying to shift with an engine idle speed that's set up way too high will cause damage. Get the engine idling properly before you drive it again.

[hydromike]

Oh, and check the belt tension. If the belt is too tight, the drive clutch will try to spin the secondary regardless of rpm.

[PLANTC]

What should the belt deflection be on the belt?

[gearhead1937]

What should the belt deflection be on the belt?

I've always read between 1.25 to 1.5 inches.

[thebuggyman1]

I just did a lot of playing around with this on my engine....I got the best results at 1 1/16". But, I have solid motor mounts. With rubber mounts, as the motor engages the clutch, it will pull against the mounts, and act like the belt is looser than it measures(c-c distance on clutches). With rubber mounts, I had the best luck over tightening the belt till the machine wants to drive off at idle...then loosen it till it stops.