Check out my new 743b

[idwoodhauler]

I picked this up about a month ago with 2700 hrs. I've been needing one for a long time for my reclaimed lumber business. It came with the forks and bucket with removable tooth bar. I've already used it for plowing quite a bit and for a demo project in my shop. It's really proved itself well. I haven't put the block heater in yet but haven't had any problems starting it- surprisingly. On the below zero days I've warmed up the engine compartment w/a space heater. I've read that this model is prone to cracked arms? I haven't noticed this on mine. Is this caused by overloading? I don't know much about them other than I need one and this one so far has served well. So far I've put about 17 hrs on it. I have greased it but that's it. What other maint. should I do? I'm guessing I'll have to limit my lumber units to about 500 b.f. but I can get used to that. Sure beats moving by hand! Well I just wanted to say hello and show off my new toy. I hope I won't have to come on here with any issues but this seems like a great place. Tons of info! Here's a link to a pic since I can't figure out how to put on in here. http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/7146/p1010619m.jpg

 

[Tazza]

I think they crack from stress over time, working too hard, bashing into hard objects. I wouldn't be worried, they may never crack.
As for lift, don't worry here either. If its too heavy, it won't lift it. It may tip up, but thats about it. You won't damage it from lifting too much, its not able to do it.
Just the usual stuff to check. Oil levels, coolant levels, grease.
Most of all, enjoy your new toy! they are so handy, you won't know how you ever lived without it.

 

[idwoodhauler]

I have a question about block heater installation. I ordered the part from bobcat of the rockies and they guy told me it goes in the head and it would be an easy install. Then I took it to my mechanic and the instructions they sent for the freeze plug in the head were for a different motor. Then he called bobcat and they said it was the inside one that would require removing a bunch of stuff to get to. Are there other options for and easy install? Or should I return the part and go w/a different option. Heating the engine compartment w/a portable electric space heater has been working fine but will be a pain for on the jobsite. thanks in advance.

 

[rpw]

I have a question about block heater installation. I ordered the part from bobcat of the rockies and they guy told me it goes in the head and it would be an easy install. Then I took it to my mechanic and the instructions they sent for the freeze plug in the head were for a different motor. Then he called bobcat and they said it was the inside one that would require removing a bunch of stuff to get to. Are there other options for and easy install? Or should I return the part and go w/a different option. Heating the engine compartment w/a portable electric space heater has been working fine but will be a pain for on the jobsite. thanks in advance.

You might try a magnectic block heater.

 

[skidsteer.ca]

You might try a magnectic block heater.

Download the block heater manual from www.zerostart.com look up your engine model and see if there are any alternate locations to install the heater.
You can also go with artic engine oil, synthetic 0-40, etc Be sure you glow plugs and battery are in good shape. I am however a firm believer in block heaters, they put the heat inside the engine where you get the most good from the least heat.
Ken

 

[idwoodhauler]

Download the block heater manual from www.zerostart.com look up your engine model and see if there are any alternate locations to install the heater.
You can also go with artic engine oil, synthetic 0-40, etc Be sure you glow plugs and battery are in good shape. I am however a firm believer in block heaters, they put the heat inside the engine where you get the most good from the least heat.
Ken

Thanks for that reference Ken. It says for my model engine v1702 'Install in back of head. Point element 2 o'clock.' So I guess that means the more difficult to reach freeze plug? I'll just have to suck it up and take it in to be done. Any ideas on the amount of time it will take and what needs removed to recah it? Curious at cost I'm looking at. Thanks so much.

 

[skidsteer.ca]

Thanks for that reference Ken. It says for my model engine v1702 'Install in back of head. Point element 2 o'clock.' So I guess that means the more difficult to reach freeze plug? I'll just have to suck it up and take it in to be done. Any ideas on the amount of time it will take and what needs removed to recah it? Curious at cost I'm looking at. Thanks so much.

I know the 2203 Kubota is one the pto end of the engine in the end of the head. So it sounds the same 4u. (except my engine is in sideways so its simple) Can you see that area if you lift the cab?
Take us some picturers and we will see what we can figure. Sorry I have never worked on a 743. Removing the frost plug and installing the heater is simple once you reach the area. 15 minute job. Might have to pull the engine a bit, still pretty easy on these machine but likely 4 hours labour or so (my best guess)
Ken

 

[Tazza]

I know the 2203 Kubota is one the pto end of the engine in the end of the head. So it sounds the same 4u. (except my engine is in sideways so its simple) Can you see that area if you lift the cab?
Take us some picturers and we will see what we can figure. Sorry I have never worked on a 743. Removing the frost plug and installing the heater is simple once you reach the area. 15 minute job. Might have to pull the engine a bit, still pretty easy on these machine but likely 4 hours labour or so (my best guess)
Ken

If they want you to use the rear plug, i think the engine will need to come out. The newer machines have the engine sitting east/west not inline like the 743s do.

 

[jeffco]

If they want you to use the rear plug, i think the engine will need to come out. The newer machines have the engine sitting east/west not inline like the 743s do.

I have a lower radiator hose heater in my 825, I think it was the 1 1/2 model at tractor supply and was 27.00 or close to that. It's 750 watt and its plenty for that little perkins. After 2 hours of on time, you touch the radiator cap and it's a little warm and the engine starts like its summer. Using ether is tough on those pistons and rings, I prefer to plan ahead, 2 hours is all it takes. Good luck, jeffco