Branson tractors have been around since 1968. The tractors feature the Cummins engine, which has been tested and is known to produce enough horsepower for mowing and plowing activities.
In 1978, Branson company joined hands with Yanmar and John Deere for technical collaboration. The collaboration aimed to help improve the performance of the tractors.
However, despite the collaboration, there are plenty of Branson tractor problems you must learn to solve to enjoy using the tractor.
They include starting issues, overheating problems, and no power issues. Others are a poor shift in gears, hydraulic leak, whining of gears, and PTO shaft problems.
Continue reading to learn more about Branson tractor problems and how to fix them
Table of Branson Tractor Problems and Their Fixes
| Problem | Solution |
| 1. Engine refuses to start | – Recharge the battery – Clean the carburettor – Refuel the tractor |
| 2. Engine overheating | – Clean the radiator – Replace the gasketCheck for coolant leakage |
| 3. Low quality cutting & dull blades | – Sharpen the blades |
| 4. Engine performs poorly | – Replace safety switches |
| 5. Electrical issues | – Replace the battery – Replace charred wires |
| 6. Fuel leaks | – Soldier or use sealant to seal the leaking area |
| 7. Steering problems | – Replace the steering cylinders – Fix the hydraulic pump – Run the engine to raise the temperature |
| 8. Bad gear shift | – Change the oil – Replace filters regularly – Replace the clutch if it bent |
| 9. Fuel system problem | – Use a vacuum pump to remove air from the system – Add a gallon of fuelReplace the lubricant |
1. The Engine Refuses to Start
When the spark plug is faulty, the engine will not start. Spark plugs get damaged with time, making it difficult for the tractor to start when the ignition is turned on.
Besides, low fuel levels will also make it hard to start the tractor. In other cases, the carburetor could get clogged, making it difficult for the tractor to start.
Typically, the carburetor helps blend the fuel and air before the mixture is pushed down the combustion chamber. So it must always be in good condition for rationing to take place.
But when the carburetor gets clogged, it interferes with the engine performance and makes it difficult for the tractor to start.
Also, the tractor may refuse to start if it lacks enough juice or the battery is old.
Solutions
Replace the engine plug according to the manual or after every 100 hours of machine operation.
- Remove and clean the carburetor.
- Replace the carburetor if it has failed.
- Refill the fuel tank.
- Recharge or replace the battery.
Related: TYM tractor problems and Fixes
2. Engine Overheating
Overheating is a common problem for even other tractors like the LS tractor. When you hear a bubbling sound, it tells you that the engine is overheating.
Sometimes, you may experience a water overflow when you start the tractor. The overflow is a tell-tale sign that the lawn tractor is overheating.
Overheating occurs when the radiator stops circulating water to various engine parts. Also, overheating may occur if the radiator malfunction.
Similarly, the tractor could overheat due to coolant-related issues. When you operate the engine on low oil, it may malfunction and cause the temperature to rise.
Fortunately, if you are keen, you can take appropriate action to mitigate the problem. So how do you go about this?
Firstly, it is easier to tell when the tractor is overheating. The temperature rises to between 150 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the temperature reaches 220 Fahrenheit, it triggers an alarm or a warning light to notify you that it is overheating. Secondly, the sound will change and some smell will be in the air.
This will tell you that the engine is overheating, necessitating you to take some quick action.
Solutions
- Clean the radiator and ensure it is free from debris. Also, blast the fins with an air compressor.
- Check if the head gaskets are blown off. Typically, the gasket will blow up due to overheating.
- Check for coolant leakage. You may see the liquid dripping, necessitating that you top it up.
3. Low-Quality Cutting & Dull Blades
If the tractor blades are dull, you will get low-quality plowing or mowing results. Typically, the tractor comes with three blades, which will become dull after some time.
So when the blades become dull, the cutting quality declines and may make the tractor inefficient.
Solution
- Sharpen the blades 2-3 times a year. But if you frequently use the tractor, sharpening it 4-5 times will do.
4. Engine Performs Poorly
When you start the tractor, but it loses power and performs poorly, it is a sign of a problem that needs to be fixed.
Similarly, if you start the tractor but notice the gears becoming problematic when you take it to a higher RPM, it signals an engine problem.
Sometimes, the tractor may die suddenly after starting or running without power. This could happen if you let the tractor sit for some days without running.
Solutions
- Test the safety switch for power and replace it if it fails the test.
- Check the fuses and verify that the battery is properly grounded i.e. connected to the frame.
5. Electrical Issues
When your tractor experiences an electric issue, the battery could be faulty. If the tractor stays without running for more than two weeks, the battery drains and could caus starting issues.
Besides, if the battery has reached its lifespan, you may need to replace it.
Solutions
- Check the wiring for charred cables.
- Replace the battery if it is old.
- Clean the battery terminals and remove any visible deposits.
6. Fuel Leaks
When you see some liquid underneath the tractor, it is a sign of a tank leak. Tanks made of plastics are susceptible to this problem.
Usually, Branson features two fuel lines. There is one that feeds the engine, while the other line returns the fuel from the engine.
The filter line is usually found at the bottom of the tank and features a suction tube. So when the fuel starts leaking, you may need to check the lines.
Solutions
- Scrap the leaking area and use a soldering iron to fix the problem. If the tank is made of plastic, use an appropriate sealant.
7. Steering Problems
The causes of steering problems are many and varied. They include low oil pressure, interruptions in hydraulic oil flow due to pump issues, and leaking cylinders.
Typically, when you turn the steering, the wheels turn to make the cylinder move. These minor movements accumulate to cause the end cap seals to wear.
Solution
- Fix the hydraulic pump and ensure the oil flows smoothly.
- If the temperatures are low, run the engine until the oil temperature rises.
- Repair or replace the steering cylinder.
8. Bad Gear Shift
If you find it challenging to shift into another gear when the tractor is in reverse gear, it is a bad gear problem.
Similarly, if the tractor stops when fully engaged or when you hear the gear grinding, it is a bad gear problem that needs to be fixed.
Of course, the gear may grind or wear out during normal tractor usage. In most cases, it starts by developing small pits which gradually enlarge, leading to gear shift issues.
Usually, the problem will arise due to insufficient lubrication. If the oil becomes too thin, the teeth grind against each other and destroy the smooth surface.
Such damaged gears may never recover even if the oil is replenished. Also, if water is allowed into the oil, the bad gear shift problem will occur.
Typically, the water attacks the gear steel surface resulting in abnormal wear.
Solutions
- Change the oil to reduce the rate of surface wear.
- Replace the filters regularly to stop pieces of particles from damaging and smashing the gear teeth forks and shift rods.
- Tighten the loose gear bolts and replace the shift clutch if bent.
9. Fuel System Problem
A problematic fuel system will interfere with the tractor’s performance. When the air gets trapped in the fuel line, it will likely create cracks.
Similarly, if the fuel freezes in the tank, the crystals formed may be too large to pass through the fuel line.
They inhibit the fuel supply and starve the engine. If not resolved on time, the tractor’s performance deteriorates.
Not that fuel system problems can lead to low fuel pressure. It diminishes the tractor’s pressure, further worsening its performance.
In some cases, the fuel system is likely to cause fluctuations in fuel levels and make it difficult for the fuel to get into the carburetor.
Solutions
- If the fuel is frozen or air is trapped in the tube, use compressed air or a vacuum pump to help remove it.
- If fuel is frozen, add another gallon of gasoline to warm the tank and prevent further freezing.
- Ensure the engine has fresh lubricant.
Branson 2515h problems
- Mower Not Starting:
- Check the fuel level and ensure enough gasoline is in the tank.
- Verify that the fuel valve is open, allowing fuel to reach the engine.
- Inspect the spark plug and ensure it’s clean and properly connected.
- Check the battery and make sure it’s charged and connected securely.
- Engine Running Roughly or Stalling:
- Clean or replace the air filter to ensure proper air intake to the engine.
- Check the spark plug and ensure it’s in good condition.
- Inspect the fuel filter for any clogs or debris and replace it if necessary.
- Check the carburetor for any dirt or blockages and clean it if needed.
- Blades Not Cutting Well:
- Make sure the blades are sharp and not damaged. If dull, sharpen or replace them.
- Check for any debris or grass buildup underneath the deck and clean it thoroughly.
- Adjust the cutting height to the appropriate level for your mowing needs.
- Unusual Noises or Vibrations:
- Check for loose or damaged components, such as belts, pulleys, or fasteners.
- Inspect the blades for any damage or imbalance.
- Examine the engine mounts and ensure they are secure.
- Loss of Power:
- Verify the engine RPM is within the recommended range.
- Check for signs of engine overheating, and make sure the cooling system is functioning correctly.
- Inspect the fuel system for any clogs or issues restricting fuel flow.
Are Branson Tractors Good?
Branson is a well-built and reasonably priced lawn mower. However, it comes with a few downsides, like leaking tanks.
Nonetheless, it is a good tractor in terms of performance and lift capabilities. The tractors come with a wide range of features.
They include superior construction design, steel hoods, cast iron axles, and reliable transmission.
Thus the tractors are excellent equipment built for durability. Branson brand is produced by TYM, which has a long history of making quality plant machinery.
FAQs
What are the common problems with the Branson tractor?
The most common problems with Branson tractors are the engine refusing to start, engine overheating, and dull blades.
Others include fuel leaks, fuel system problems, bad gear shifts, and steering issues. Luckily, you do not need to visit a tractor repair shop to fix the problems.
Is Branson a good tractor?
Branson is a good compact tractor. It features a quality finish, including excellent metal panels on the bonnet and mudguards.
The metal panels are well coated with a high gloss finish which gives it a quality finish to last for a long. Also, the tractor comes with an ergonomic suspension seat.
The seat is essential since it enables the operator to sit in a comfortable position where they can access all the levers. This enables them to operate the tractor for more hours without getting tired.
Are TYM and Branson the same tractor?
Initially, the Branson tractor was manufactured by Kukje Machinery Company. In 2016, TYM bought the company and continued manufacturing tractors.
Branson and TYM-USA are all based in the US and are subsidiaries of TYM Group Company based in South Korea. Thus, the Korean company owns and controls both Branson and TYM-USA.
Branson tractor problems summary
Undoubtedly, Bransons are good tractors. You can deploy them for various uses ranging from ploughing to mowing.
The tractors feature the Cummins engine, which produces more horsepower than any other engine in its category. Besides, the tractors are efficient and use less fuel.
Indeed the tractors deliver excellent value for money and are farm tools that guarantee optimal cost savings.
However, you will need to grapple with the Branson tractor problems, which may make it difficult to get the most from the tractor. All in all, Branson tractors guarantee you value for your money.