Oil & Fuel 50 Hour Service on M8540HD12

[rjkobbeman]

Saturday I did the 50 hour service on my M8540HD12-1. Piece of cake. Anyone that does their own oil changes on the family car should be at home changing the fluids on their Kubota.

I pulled the two hydraulic filters and let them drain into a BIG plastic bin my wife had laying around. I then pulled the drain plug and went inside for a sandwich.

When I came back, everything was completely drained with no drips. I put the drain plug back in and screwed the new filters on. The new filters came with new magnetic rings.

I then pulled the engine oil drain plugs and engine oil filter and let the engine oil drain a while.

As the engine oil drained, I started pumping SUDT into the filler hole. Pumped 15 gallons.

Put the drain plugs back in the engine and screwed a new oil filter on. Put in almost 3 gallons of Kubota 10W30.

Started it up and let it run for a few minutes. (Actually, I turned it off and started back up several times... checking fluid levels.)

While I was at it, I hit all the zerks too.

Couldn't have gone any easier. I didn't change the front axle lube yet. Will do that in a day or two.

For the SUDT, I bought the 5 gallon buckets of the stuff. It save me a couple of dollars. I used a "5 gallon bucket hand hydraulic pump" (not EXACT verbiage) from Northern Tool. Cost about $35, but was VERY handy.

Poured the old fluid back into the empty containers. I think the clean up took longer that the actual LOF.

 

[TripleR]

Good to know about the magnetic rings. I was going to have the dealer do mine, but I am going to have my son do it instead.

 

[rjkobbeman]

Good to know about the magnetic rings. I was going to have the dealer do mine, but I am going to have my son do it instead.

One mission I have been on lately is to get a Parts Manual and a Service Manual for my new tractor. This has been a real eye opener. Kubota is terrible at getting their manuals "out there" in a timely fashion.

I bought a service manual (WSM) from my dealer. I don't know if it is current or not. Am in the process of finding an answer to that question.

TRIED to get a parts manual from my dealer. Took three tries. Only after me supplying him with a part number did he finally get the right manual. Or so I thought. (The manual ended up being for a pre-2008 (non -1) model.)

Ended up getting a parts manual in .PDF format from tractor smart. The parts manual he sent me is correct (after telling him my specific tractor year and serial number), however it is a copy of the online stuff he (dealers) have access to. It isn't a "real" manual that Kubota would sell to the public. The manual I got from him is the right one, but I and tractor smart are still trying to find a part number for the retail parts manual. Not sure if one exists yet. (My tractor has a serial number that is relavent to the newer manual.) I also have a call into Messick's, however I am sure they are running into the same problems.

Anyway, the reason I am telling you this is because I had to use the parts manual I got from tractor smart to get the right hydraulic filters for my tractor. My dealer did not have current information to give me the "correct" filters had I not had the part number myself.

As it turns out, the correct filter was the same as the "older" filter but had the magnetic rings included. I'm positive this is the only difference.

I have since had to buy a lost 3ph lift arm stabilizer pin clip. I needed the correct parts manual to find that part number too.

I would do you a lot of good if you get the right manual for your tractor. It will help you get the right stuff!

 

[TripleR]

I didn't realize it was that much trouble getting manuals for the M8540. I told them to pull all the stuff needed for a 50 service which they put in a box, except for the hydraulic fluid and I dropped it off at our shop. I will have my son look at it before he begins dumping stuff, thanks.

 

[rjkobbeman]

I didn't realize it was that much trouble getting manuals for the M8540. I told them to pull all the stuff needed for a 50 service which they put in a box, except for the hydraulic fluid and I dropped it off at our shop. I will have my son look at it before he begins dumping stuff, thanks.

I was just telling you for future knowledge. For my 50 hour service, the only thing that was different was the hydraulic filter(s). After comparison, the hydraulic filter that my newer serial number M8540 called for was a filter that has been in use for a long time. The only difference we could tell from that filter and the filter that the older serial number M8540 called for was the magnetic rings being included.

 

[TripleR]

I was just telling you for future knowledge. For my 50 hour service, the only thing that was different was the hydraulic filter(s). After comparison, the hydraulic filter that my newer serial number M8540 called for was a filter that has been in use for a long time. The only difference we could tell from that filter and the filter that the older serial number M8540 called for was the magnetic rings being included.

Thanks, I clicked over on 50 today, so gotta get it serviced one day this week.

I don't know how many hours it takes to break old habits, but I still catch myself using the foot clutch.

 

[rjkobbeman]

Thanks, I clicked over on 50 today, so gotta get it serviced one day this week.

I don't know how many hours it takes to break old habits, but I still catch myself using the foot clutch.

Me too!

I am still getting used to using the shuttle shift WITHOUT the clutch. Don't get me wrong, I am quite at home with the shuttle... but my brain still wants to clutch it.

Every now and then I will play in the field without the clutch. I am VERY impressed with the smooth transition the shuttle has without the clutch. There is a slow/smooth engagement of the shuttle clutch mechanism when you do not use the foot clutch. However, I have noticed that when you DO use the foot clutch, the shuttle clutch seems to work instantly. (Don't know if they are actually two different clutches or not.) This allows you to control the engagement with your foot... and not have a second delay with the shuttle. The hydraulic circuitry in there is pretty amazing.

 

[TripleR]

I used a synchronized shuttle shift for twelve years and due to my hills, dams and such I had it wired in and it is just instinctive.

I was mowing in a fairly open area today and also did some experimenting and wondered what if any difference there is in the clutching mechanism between foot and hand. I "feel" more in control with the foot clutch, but don't know if it is real or imagined.

Overall I am very happy with this tractor as is my youngest son who has put a few hours on it. My oldest son says he is going to hold off driving it until it gets some more scratches on it.:laughing:

 

[gwdixon]

My dealer says that the foot clutch is a normal dry disk-type clutch and the shuttle is a wet clutch. Slipping the foot clutch is severely frowned upon.

I use the foot clutch when parking in the barn, fork lifting, and other jobs that need precision.

In the field the shuttle shift works well (when I remember to use it).

 

[TripleR]

My dealer says that the foot clutch is a normal dry disk-type clutch and the shuttle is a wet clutch. Slipping the foot clutch is severely frowned upon.

I use the foot clutch when parking in the barn, fork lifting, and other jobs that need precision.

In the field the shuttle shift works well (when I remember to use it).

Thanks for the information, guess I had better stop.

 

[rjkobbeman]

My dealer says that the foot clutch is a normal dry disk-type clutch and the shuttle is a wet clutch. Slipping the foot clutch is severely frowned upon.

I use the foot clutch when parking in the barn, fork lifting, and other jobs that need precision.

In the field the shuttle shift works well (when I remember to use it).

On the M8540"HD" (Hydraulic Shuttle as apposed to Syncro Suttle) the foot clutch is a wet clutch pack like in an automatic transmission. The foot clutch and the hydraulic shuttle clutch is in fact the same clutch pack. There is a clutch pack for "forward" and a clutch pack for "reverse". The shuttle lever controls a hydraulic valve that engages and disengages the forward or reverse clutch pack... depending on which way the shuttle lever is set. Pressing the clutch actuates that exact same valve that the shuttle lever controls, disengaging the clutch pack.

There is no dry clutch in the Hydraulic Shuttle. I imagine all of Kubota's "HD" (Hydraulic Shuttle) models operate this same way.

The Syncro Shuttle model has a dry disc clutch, pressure plate and throw-out (like in an automobile). My WSM isn't real clear on the syncro shuttle shift operation, but it looks like it is just a set of gears, rather that a wet clutch pack. The shuttle shifting on the syncro shuttle is not hydraulically engaged. It is changing gears like in a gear box. It has syncronizers so you can shuttle between forward and reverse while still moving a little (not a lot), but you must press the clutch pedal for shuttle operation.

The hydraulic shuttle can be operated without the clutch pedal, as the hydraulic shuttle valve controls the engagement and disengagement.

 

[TripleR]

Thanks for the information, it seems like I have more precise control easing up to a fence or something by using the foot clutch.

 

[bill in ny]

rjkobbeman, was wondering why you only got the 6' rotary cutter? do you have some tight places to fit through?

 

[rjkobbeman]

rjkobbeman, was wondering why you only got the 6' rotary cutter? do you have some tight places to fit through?

Tight spaces was one factor.

I was going to get a 7'er, but read bad things about them. Just too big (they are massive) and scalp really bad. The 7'ers are still a single spindle. From what I hear, an 8'er is better.

Space in my garage was also an issue.

Once I have my outbuilding erected (god only knows when that will happen!), I may rethink some of my implements.

I have a mixture of big pasture and small sections around the pond. If I get something bigger, I will probably keep the 6'er.

 

[rjkobbeman]

Thanks for the information, it seems like I have more precise control easing up to a fence or something by using the foot clutch.

Yeah, me too. I really only use the shuttle when going from forward to reverse and vice versa. I don't use it to go to into neutral to stop or get close to something. I use the foot clutch for that.

I will only put the shuttle in neutral when I sit for a while -- or when parking.

 

[gwdixon]

On the M8540"HD" (Hydraulic Shuttle as apposed to Syncro Suttle) the foot clutch is a wet clutch pack like in an automatic transmission. The foot clutch and the hydraulic shuttle clutch is in fact the same clutch pack. There is a clutch pack for "forward" and a clutch pack for "reverse". The shuttle lever controls a hydraulic valve that engages and disengages the forward or reverse clutch pack... depending on which way the shuttle lever is set. Pressing the clutch actuates that exact same valve that the shuttle lever controls, disengaging the clutch pack.

There is no dry clutch in the Hydraulic Shuttle. I imagine all of Kubota's "HD" (Hydraulic Shuttle) models operate this same way.

The Syncro Shuttle model has a dry disc clutch, pressure plate and throw-out (like in an automobile). My WSM isn't real clear on the syncro shuttle shift operation, but it looks like it is just a set of gears, rather that a wet clutch pack. The shuttle shifting on the syncro shuttle is not hydraulically engaged. It is changing gears like in a gear box. It has syncronizers so you can shuttle between forward and reverse while still moving a little (not a lot), but you must press the clutch pedal for shuttle operation.

The hydraulic shuttle can be operated without the clutch pedal, as the hydraulic shuttle valve controls the engagement and disengagement.

OK, now I'm confused. Not from you explanation but from the specs for my M7040HD -1. I would expect the dealer to know what the clutch detail are.

Here is what I have copied from the PDF file that was used to purchase the M7040.

DRIVE TRAIN
Four Speed Fully Synchronized
8F/8R Synchro Shuttle
8F/8R Speeds Hydraulic shuttle

I don't have the WSM like you do since it hasn't been updated in years so it was not purchased.

The impression that I got was that the M7040 and the M8540 were similar with the obvious difference in HP. It is supposed to have the same transmission and clutch. (Plus, the M8540 was too wide for my barn's entrance!)

A bit more information from the Internet:
Hydraulic Shuttle
(Hydraulic Shuttle models)
Better than ever, our Hydraulic Shuttle for the M-Series makes shifting between forward and reverse smooth and quick. With the Hydraulic Shuttle, a column-mounted lever, conveniently located next to the steering wheel, does all the work. Boost productivity, especially while using loaders, by eliminating the need to depress the clutch every time you change directions. And when attaching implements, our improved inching feature is easy to perform, giving you the same feel as a half-clutch operation.

And:
Synchronized Shuttle
(Synchronized Shuttle models)
Shifting between forward and reverse is made quick and smooth with the M-Series synchro-shuttle, located within easy reach of the steering column. The M8540 and M9540 also offer greater durability with a new, larger diameter cerametallic clutch.

 

[big bubba]

Also don't forget on the service to adjust belt tension, as well as adjusting (if necessary) the transmission lock cable. In time, the pedal clutch may need adjustment. My brake pedal tension had a bit excessive play from the factory, the pedal adjustment (for both wheels) is fairly straightforward once you get behind it. In addition, the hyd. shuttle linkage for F & R may at some point need attention (my previous 7040 came maladjusted from the start) Really, these things may not need attention for some time.
another reason to get the shop service manual (around $100?) is for the hyd. brake service, another item probably not needing service for a long time but recommended in the owners manual (probably for liability) but described as a "dealer service item" Anyway, they talk about bleeding/purging lines, master cly kit, equalizer valve adjustment, etc. Again, probably straightforward, but something to consider in the long run.
I took a hit trading my 150 hr. 7040 in for the 8540....but the features and increased capability of the 8540 over the 7040 have far outweighed the cost difference and i was able to do it before the price increased a few years ago. let 'er rip bb

 

[rjkobbeman]

OK, now I'm confused. Not from you explanation but from the specs for my M7040HD -1. I would expect the dealer to know what the clutch detail are.

Here is what I have copied from the PDF file that was used to purchase the M7040.

DRIVE TRAIN
Four Speed Fully Synchronized
8F/8R Synchro Shuttle
8F/8R Speeds Hydraulic shuttle

I don't have the WSM like you do since it hasn't been updated in years so it was not purchased.

The impression that I got was that the M7040 and the M8540 were similar with the obvious difference in HP. It is supposed to have the same transmission and clutch. (Plus, the M8540 was too wide for my barn's entrance!)

A bit more information from the Internet:
Hydraulic Shuttle
(Hydraulic Shuttle models)
Better than ever, our Hydraulic Shuttle for the M-Series makes shifting between forward and reverse smooth and quick. With the Hydraulic Shuttle, a column-mounted lever, conveniently located next to the steering wheel, does all the work. Boost productivity, especially while using loaders, by eliminating the need to depress the clutch every time you change directions. And when attaching implements, our improved inching feature is easy to perform, giving you the same feel as a half-clutch operation.

And:
Synchronized Shuttle
(Synchronized Shuttle models)
Shifting between forward and reverse is made quick and smooth with the M-Series synchro-shuttle, located within easy reach of the steering column. The M8540 and M9540 also offer greater durability with a new, larger diameter cerametallic clutch.

I don't have a WSM for the M7040, however I would expect it works the same way. I have the 12 speed, but the 8 and 12 speed in the M8540 work the same. The only difference is the 8 speed has a 4 speed main gear box and the 12 speed has a 6 speed main gear box. The hydraulic shuttle work the same.

My WSM has some nice diagrams and explanations on the hydraulic shuttle. On the hydraulic shuttle, in place of the dry clutch/pressure-plate, there is a "damper plate". It is not a clutching mechanism, but some sort of damper that cusions the shuttle changing directions. I imagine it also serves to physically connect the engine to the transmission input shaft.

On the hydraulic shuttle, the clutch pedal cable connects to the hydraulic shuttle valve. On the syncro shuttle, the clutch pedal cable connects to the throw-out for the clutch.

I will make a note to copy a couple diagrams and text from my WSM. I can't post them for you to take a look.

Also, if you look at the "Syncronized Shuttle models" text you posted, you will notice it says the M8540/M9540 have a larger diameter ceramic clutch. That applied to the syncro models only... as their is no dry disc clutch in the Hydraulic Shuttle models. I picked up on that when I was researching which tractor to buy.

 

[rjkobbeman]

I scanned a few pages from my WSM. It contains some details on the Hydraulic Shuttle and Syncro Shuttle clutch. The document is a .PDF in a zip file. If you want/need some more info, I can look in my book and scan if needed.

 

[gwdixon]

I scanned a few pages from my WSM. It contains some details on the Hydraulic Shuttle and Syncro Shuttle clutch. The document is a .PDF in a zip file. If you want/need some more info, I can look in my book and scan if needed.

Thanks for the PDF file. Saved a copy on my computer just in case. Hope I never need it but the information will be studied anyway.