Gehl 4625 Problems: Old but Still Good? What's the Durability?

The Gehl 4625 is a skid steer loader of a bygone era but is considered to be "old but gold" by many operators and hardcore fans of its brand. This machine is highlighted by its use of an engine made by one of the major names in the industry, Kubota.

One key advantage it holds over its modern-day counterparts is that it is a lot easier to maintain because it pretty much sticks to the basics. When it comes to power, economy, and performance, it is not lagging too much either. In this article, we will show you what makes this product remain a hot commodity in the market despite its age.

Key Features

The Gehl 4625 is equipped with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder Kubota engine. It has a maximum output of 47 hp. This heavy machinery weighs 5,440 pounds with an operating capacity of 1,350 pounds.

To ensure its efficiency in work-related operations, its 65-inch bucket can hold as much as 10.8 cubic feet. Meanwhile, its tires have a width of 10 inches and a diameter of 16.5 inches to enhance its fording depth and ability to conquer harsh terrains.

Despite its size, it is agile and maneuverable enough in most situations due to its zero-radius turning capability. Likewise, the comfort and safety of its operator are assured by the rigid design of its cab enclosure.

The Gehl 4625 is highly customizable for various applications. It comes with a standard universal skid steer quick hitch in its loader arms. Then, it can be further modified with buckets, hydraulic augers, pallet forks, sweepers, brush cutters, and other parts depending on the kind of work you are looking to engage in.

Durability

On average, the life expectancy of a skid steer is 5,000 operating hours according to some experts. The fact that we can still see some Gehl 4625 operating nowadays certainly speaks tons about its resilience.

In general, there are only a few known problems associated with the Gehl 4625 during its production phase, and most of them can be traced back to its regular workloads as well as the poor maintenance habits of owners and operators. Almost all of them can also be found in its competition in the market. Considering that its production has folded in 1998 though, most units that have survived the test of time may be more vulnerable to certain issues now.

No matter what the reason is, any signs of problems manifesting in your skid steer loader certainly require your utmost attention and action to reduce your vehicle's downtime, maximize your productivity with it, and extend its life further.

Common Problems to Watch Out for in the Gehl 4625

In its stock configuration, there are only a few problems operators complain about in the Gehl 4625. However, if you are buying one just now, some issues related to its previous ownership may also come into play.

1. Hydraulic Cylinder Drift

Hydraulic system issues are fairly common with skid steers, especially as they rake in plenty of hours over the years. One of the most common problems that may come out of them is hydraulic cylinder drift.

The key indication of this is when the cylinder slowly retracts during operation causing the bucket to go down or tilt on its own without your input in the joystick. This can present a hazard to the work environment aside from the other potential inconveniences it can result in when it comes to productivity.

The primary cause of hydraulic cylinder drift is usually an increase in the pressure from inside the cylinder. This happens when there's a lack of any sort of control valve or air bleed line to reduce that pressure, allowing it to overrun into other areas and eventually cause the cylinder to move without user input. It may also stem from faulty seals or worn-out pistons, which can fail to adhere to their fluid pressure levels if the parts are aged and not replaced.

To fix hydraulic cylinder drift, you will most likely need to bring in a professional technician as it requires specialized tools and expertise that come with years of experience. The technician will start by first draining the hydraulic system followed by pressure testing the entire system. This will allow them to diagnose the worn-out parts or malfunctioning valves that are responsible for the cylinder drift.

Once the diagnosis is complete, it's time to replace any faulty seals, pistons, and valves found in the system. The technician may also suggest adding air bleed lines to reduce pressure levels and prevent future cylinder drift from happening. It's important to ensure that the correct parts are being used and correctly installed in order to avoid any further complications in the hydraulic system.

Finally, after the replacement and installation are complete, pressure tests will be conducted to make sure that everything is working normally once again. With that done, the Gehl 4625 skid steer loader should be up and running without any further issues with its hydraulic cylinder drift.

2. Leaks

Skid steers, such as the Gehl 4625, taking in plenty of hours in their system become more vulnerable to the contamination of the fuel, oil, coolant, and other fluids in their system. The most common cause of this is leaking. Leaks can present themselves in many forms, such as seepage from the oil pan or fuel tank, coolants, and other fluids dripping underneath the vehicle.

Leakage can be a sign of extensive damage to the system, but it doesn't always mean that you need to replace any components. Therefore, it is important to accurately diagnose the problem before it gets worse.

a. Fuel Leaks

Fuel leaks can occur in both older and newer skid steers, usually as a result of worn or damaged hoses or seals around fuel tanks and lines. It is important to inspect all hoses and seals regularly for any signs of wear or damage, so you can replace them before any major leaks occur.

b. Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are usually caused by a clogged oil filter, loose or damaged gasket, or worn seals and gaskets in the engine. It is important to replace the oil filter regularly and inspect all gaskets and seals for signs of wear or damage as part of your regular maintenance routine.

c. Coolant Leaks

Coolant leaks are typically caused by worn or damaged hoses and seals, as well as a cracked radiator. It is important to inspect all of the hoses and seals regularly for any signs of wear or damage, so you can replace them before any major leaks occur. It is also important to make sure your coolant levels are topped off regularly, as low levels can contribute to leakage.

d. Hydraulic Fluid Leaks

Hydraulic fluid leaks are normally caused by worn or damaged seals and hoses in the hydraulic system. It is important to inspect all of the hoses and seals regularly for any signs of wear or damage, so you can replace them before any major leaks occur. It is also important to make sure your hydraulic fluid levels are topped off regularly, as low levels can contribute to leakage.

In order to prevent leaks in the systems of a Gehl 4625 skid steer loader and keep it running efficiently, it is important to inspect all hoses and seals regularly for any signs of wear or damage, top off fluid levels as needed, and replace filters and gaskets when necessary. Leaks can be a sign of extensive damage to the system, so it is important to take all necessary steps to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Taking these preventive steps will ensure that your skid steer loader remains in top condition for years to come.

It is also a good idea to periodically check the system for any signs of leakage and address any issues that are found quickly and professionally. Taking these steps will help you ensure your skid steer loader is running efficiently and safely, while also extending its lifespan. In addition, it is important to have your skid steer loader regularly serviced by a professional to ensure that all of its components are in good working order at all times.

3. Engine Stalling or Not Starting

Engine stalling or starting problems in the Gehl 4625 skid steer loader can be caused by a variety of factors. One common culprit is a malfunctioning fuel system, which can be attributed to clogged filters, faulty injectors, incorrect fuel pressure, and contaminated fuel. To address these issues, make sure you check all your filters and replace them if needed, test and adjust your fuel injectors, check the fuel pressure, and use only high-quality clean diesel.

Another common cause of engine stalling or starting problems in the Gehl 4625 skid steer loader is an issue with the electrical system. This could mean a faulty starter motor, battery, alternator, or solenoid, or a wiring problem. If this is the case, you should test all electrical components and replace any that are not working correctly. It's also important to check your wiring for loose connections, corrosion, or other damage that could be causing the issue.

Overheating issues can also cause stalling or starting problems in the Gehl 4625 skid steer loader. This could be due to a lack of lubrication, a dirty radiator or cooling system, or an issue with the thermostat. To address this, it's important to regularly check your oil levels and top up when needed, flush out any dirt and debris in the coolant system, and test the thermostat.

Lastly, it's possible that your engine stalling or starting problems could be caused by a mechanical issue with the engine itself. Make sure to regularly inspect all components in the engine and replace any that are worn out or damaged. A professional mechanic may be necessary if you are unable to identify the cause of the problem yourself. 

These are the most common causes and solutions for engine stalling or starting problems in the Gehl 4625 skid steer loader. It's important to remember that these issues can be dangerous if not addressed properly, so it is always best to consult with a professional mechanic if you're unsure of how to proceed. With regular maintenance and proper care, you can ensure that your skid steer loader is running at its optimal performance.

Conclusion

If you want to stick with the basics without compromising your productivity, better consider putting the Gehl 4625 on your checklist. Despite its age, a well-oiled machine such as this can be a good investment for your farming or small construction needs.

Although some issues may come with a skid steer as it ages, by following the tips shown here and performing regular maintenance on your Gehl 4625 skid steer loader, you should be able to quickly identify and address any problems before they transform into more serious matters. With proper care, you can keep your vehicle working well for more years to come.