B8200 Leaking hydro fluid at brake lever

[satch]

I've only had this tractor for about three weeks. The lady owner proudly handed me a large container of Kubota hydro fluid and told me 'it leaks a bit, just add this'. The dipstick shows the fluid is over-full by about 1/4 inch above the mark. Each time I park, the tractor leaks a puddle about 3 inches in diameter.
1. Should hydro fluid even be in the chamber with the brake shoes? The brakes seem to work okay.
2. I ordered the o-ring for where the brake lever axis comes out of the housing, but should I be looking at the seal for the brake drum shaft?

3. On a separate note, how would I know if the engine overheats? It runs fine, but I don't see a gage or an idiot light and my owners manual hasn't been shipped yet.

Thanks,
Tom

 

[satch]

Since 31 people looked at this, I thought I would post the resolution. When I removed the brake covers, (6 bolts) hydraulic oil poured out of both sides. The brakes actually worked ok though my property is pretty flat except for the ditch in the front yard. After removing the 'C' clips for the brake drums and sliding them off, (slide is a good word, these things were submerged in oil) I discovered the rather standard-looking axle seals you would expect to find on most automotive rear axles. Ordered two from Colemans at 6 bucks apeice, and poof, no leaks!
Removing the seals was a challenge because they're down in a pocket. After trying several tools, I produced a roofing crowbar who's bent end fit perfectly in the pocket and caught the edge of the seal. It came out as easy as opening a beer without the twist-top. 15 seconds and your done! I had to clean up the brakes and used brake-clean on the linings, but it still stops ok for my flat lot.
It sure is nice to park it in the garage without sticking a pan under it.
Hope this helps someone else with the same problem. The 25 year-old seals were hardened and had more than served their purpose.
Satch

 

[RobertN]

Sorry, I never had this issue with the B8200 I had. GREAT tractor though! A little underpowered for it's size, but mine was great for the 12 years I had it(just sold and got a much bigger tractor a few months ago).

The B8200 has a "whistle" on the overflow hose. If it get hot, it will start whistling.

Mine was a B8200HST-D.

I never had an issue with it overheating. But, I also made sure to keep the grill clean, the inside radiator screen clean, and would also blow out the radiator and hydro cooler when I took a break while mowing.

If you have questions, PM me.

I've only had this tractor for about three weeks. The lady owner proudly handed me a large container of Kubota hydro fluid and told me 'it leaks a bit, just add this'.
3. On a separate note, how would I know if the engine overheats? It runs fine, but I don't see a gage or an idiot light and my owners manual hasn't been shipped yet.

Thanks,
Tom