450 C 1975 losing drive power when climbing

[NIKinNZ]

Hello all I have a 1975 450 C serial number 450 CJ 271126T, recently when I am climbing a hill either in reverse or forwards it gets to a certain point (if a steepish hill) where it won’t drive any more, almost like a clutch slip feel? Could it be a clutch issue? I’m trying to find any info on the clutch on this model unsuccessfully. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

[Jim B]

271126 is a 1977 serial number, by the list on the FAQ Board here.

You could have clutch troubles mechanical at the engine or hydraulic in the HLR. You need a copy of the John Deere technical manual, publication # TM1102, for your 450C. There are adjustments and pressures to check. The manual will have adjustment info and diagnostic checks to go through. You want to go through the diagnostics carefully to pinpoint the issue as close as possible.

What are you using for oil in the transmission and steering clutches?

Your post will likely get move to the Late Models Board, as that is where the 350/450 and newer crawler model questions belong.

[Bobby H.]

I had the same issue with my 450c . I had no high range and would loose trans pressure going up hill. I have owned the unit about 8 years and have been using low range only. i asked on the forum and got not replies. I had read the way to check fluid was engine running. I WAS WRONG. turn engine off and fill trans oil. I filled about 3/8 inch over full ENGINE OFF and now I have high range up hill down hill and will spin the tracks in high range pushing . Have been running with pressure gauge and it has not dropped ANY pressure since I pulled my head out and filled it correctly. Hope this is your issue also.