Yanmar YM3 Brake Adjustment

Why Do Tractors Have Two Brake Pedals?

You may have noticed that the brakes on a tractor look a little different than your standard vehicle. Many modern tractors are equipped with two brake pedals – also known as dual brakes, split brakes or twin brakes. These dual brakes can be used to control the left and right rear wheels independently.

This is especially valuable to help operators minimize the radius when sharper or more precise turning is needed. This feature can also be used to help get the tractor unstuck when one tire has lost traction and is spinning in mud or other slick surfaces. Though the brakes can operate independently, most of the time they should remain locked together for smoother braking. This is especially important for safety when operating on-road or at higher speeds.

How to Adjust Your YM3 Tractor’s Dual Brakes

Periodically adjusting the dual brakes on your YM3 tractor is important for safe operation. If it feels like your tractor is braking abnormally, each brake should be checked and adjusted independently. Fortunately, this simple maintenance can be completed quickly and easily with just a few simple tools.

Tools Needed to Adjust Your Dual Brakes

The tools needed to adjust your dual brakes are minimal. Before you start, make sure you have:

A ruler
A wrench to adjust the locking nut
A pen and paper to record measurements

That’s all that’s needed to complete this simple maintenance. Before you begin, always ensure the tractor’s engine is off and the machine is parked on flat, level ground.

Checking and Adjusting Your Dual Brakes

Before you begin the adjustment, it helps to familiarize yourself with the key components. You’ll find the left brake adjusting turnbuckle on the left side of the tractor beneath the clutch pedal. The right brake adjusting turnbuckle is located on the right side of the tractor below the brake pedal. Each has a locking nut that must be loosened with a wrench for adjustment.

After you’ve identified these components, you’re ready to get started. Here are the steps to follow:

Begin by releasing the parking brake and uncoupling the brake pedals.
Place the ruler from the floor mat to the pedal so you can see the increment markings. Take note of the beginning measurement with the pedals released.
Then, press the pedal until you feel the brake start to engage. Record this reading and compare it to the original. A properly adjusted brake will be between 1 3/16 to 1 ? inch, or 30 to 40 millimeters. This reading should be the same on both sides.
If adjustments are needed, use your wrench to loosen the locking nut on the turnbuckle. Make gradual adjustments, and check the measurements again after each adjustment. When you reach the correct measurements, tighten the locking nut.
Repeat the same process for each brake until each pedal has been adjusted evenly.

That’s all it takes to adjust the dual brakes on your Yanmar YM3 tractor. If you have questions, always consult your operator’s manual or a local dealer for more information.

Connect With Yanmar

At Yanmar, we’re dedicated to helping every owner get the most out of their tractor and attachments. Our expert Customer Experience Team is standing by, ready to answer your questions and provide helpful resources. Please don’t hesitate to connect with us online or give us a call at 678-551-7369.

Back