anti freeze puddle

[greenthumb]

I have finally had time to look in to the small leak of anti-freeze that started a few weeks after I had the dealer replace the block plug with a new style plug. I think I know why it kept leaking. It seems when they pulled the hose off the old plug they put a small pinleak hole in it. I can see two spots that match up on each side. Like a pair of plyers. I was all set to take it back but decided instead of loading up the tractor and trailing it to the dealer. I would replace the hose myself I did this today and don't know if the leak was there or still at the plug. well to make a long story somewhat short. the new plug has a valve on it where the factory installed one was just a plug that went directly into the hose. does this new plug valve need to be open or closed. is it part of the cooling system for the fluid to circulate or just a drain? I hope this makes since. thanks

 

[djradz]

The new valve needs to be closed. It's a drain plug so if you open it, fluid should come out of the hose. With this new block plug/valve they should also have changed the valve down near the lower part of the frame. Once that is done, there should not be a connection between the two. In fact, if you didn't mind fluid running down the side of the engine when you drain and change your coolant, the hose on the block plug/valve isn't even needed. Sounds like your dealer may not have changed both valves or else you've got a leak in the new one. The new valve is a little tough to turn, but you might want to tighten it up just a bit. I think I'd try opening it to make sure it's not already overly tight, let a little fluid out, and then reclose it. Here in southern MI, unless your tractor's stored in a real cool spot, the block temperature should now (without running) be up enough so the leaking block is not leaking - but just wait till next winter. The problem seems to be one of "differential expansion" between the block and the magnesium or aluminum alloy plug. Problem could also be the thread sealant the dealer used. I've seen the NH techs here usually recommending teflon tape.