Oil & Fuel 1540 front axle leak

ottawarob · Nov 13, 2019

Plowing the driveway the other day, I noticed at the end of it, part of one of my front axles was oily. Took a look in the peep hole today, and I couldn't see oil in there, though viewing is really tight. Going to put some hydro oil in and see how much it takes to get it halfway up on the shaft. In the photo attached I've circled where it seems oily. At first I thought it might just be snow melting off of the hub during plowing, but I'm suspicious since the oil seems low. What seal have I probably blown?

irvingj · Nov 14, 2019

There have been numerous posts about that seal (it's in the lower location on your pic) going/leaking on GC series tractors. Not too bad a job to replace it, from what I've read. Haven't had that issue with my GC2310... yet! Try search for "axle seal."

ottawarob · Nov 14, 2019

Thanks! Yeah, it looks pretty accessible. Sadly my workshop won't be built until next year, probably going to have to get someone to fix it. Really cold outside to be fixing machinery, and the gravel on my barn is a bit dangerous to jack a tractor up on. :/

DarkBlack · Nov 14, 2019

Not a job I would look forward to. I have been praying mine are not leaking yet on my 1540 after seeing what is involved. I try to keep mud away from the joints but it is easier said than done.

ottawarob · Nov 14, 2019

DarkBlack said:
Not a job I would look forward to. I have been praying mine are not leaking yet on my 1540 after seeing what is involved. I try to keep mud away from the joints but it is easier said than done.

Yeah, if I had my shop w/ a concrete pad set up I'd consider taking it on, but as is I think I'm going to send it in.

jeepcj7 · Nov 19, 2019

Its an easy fix. Drain the axle oil. Use a screw driver or something and punch a hole in the plug to remove it. Clean the area. Apply adhesive silicone to the outside of the new plug. Use a hammer and block of wood ad and drive the plug in until it is flush with the housing. Then use a socket as a driver and drive the new plug in so that it if fully seated into the housing (not flush with the housing).