New to tractors, don't know what I don't know!

Fabriktr · Feb 13, 2017

I just bought my first tractor. A 2008 New Holland TC30. It has a front end loader. It will be used on 20 acres to brush hog, spread gravel and maybe level some dirt. I will have a lot of questions in the future, but for now, Where is the engine oil dip stick? I am a mechanic and I cannot find it. Engine is a Shibaura 1.5L series N843. I googled the engine operating manual and it show the location near the back on the rh side. Any body know where it is?

Sysop · Feb 13, 2017

Firstly, welcome to TBN!

Not sure exactly about your model, but I know some have lower-side panels that pop off after raising the hood to allow better access. Perhaps it is hidden behind something like that.

Best bet, snap a good square picture (pictures make everything better) overviewing the side where it should be. Just an overview of the engine compartment. Someone will be able to point it out from a good pic.

WM75Guy · Feb 13, 2017

Welcome to TBN. :welcome:

Is there a hole on the right side down low in the panel that runs the length of the engine compartment? I think you can get to it there. You should not have to remove any panel or open the hood.

LarryD · Feb 14, 2017

What repowell said, it should be visible through the hole in the right side panel. With the panel off it is near the fuel filter.

bspeedy · Feb 14, 2017

The guys are correct on the dipstick.

Congrats on buying a great tractor. TC30 was my first tractor and it was a faithful servant for about 5 years. Sold it for more $ than I had in purchase price, maintenance and fuel for more than 500 hours of work. That's value.

Plantation Paul · Feb 14, 2017

Having an operators manual is definitely an asset! First thing I buy if the tractor doesn't have one.

Greenland South · Feb 14, 2017

If it's anything like mine it will take you a while to find it. It's hard for me to find, and I know where it is. Pain in the arse.

airbiscuit · Feb 14, 2017

Greenland South said:
If it's anything like mine it will take you a while to find it. It's hard for me to find, and I know where it is. Pain in the arse.

So did you find it? According to the parts drawing, it should be to the right of the oil filter and below the fuel filter. I think I'm going to paint my dipstick handle yellow!

Fabriktr · Feb 14, 2017

Okay. Found it. Just like you guys said. It is on a narrow, long panel, down low on the Rh side. I was looking way too high on the block. The filter is all grungy, fuel shut off blocks the view and the stick actually protrudes out side the engine compartment. It's no wonder I could not find that sucker. Thanks for the replies.
The oil looks black, plenty of it though. I should probably change it soon. I like the Shell Rotella T 15W-40. I use it in my bikes. The packaging seems to have recently changed to Totella T4, but it looks like the same ratings. It is the proper weight for this temperature area. No clue on an oil filter for this engine. Any recommendations?
I went to the New Holland dealer and ordered an owners manual for it. $37. + $14. shipping. The printer makes a copy when an order comes in??? Strange business theory.