BX2230 my first service

[Grandad4]

Quick question: I see nothing in the manual for tire pressure which is key for proper mowing.
Pressure?

I don't have any of my material handy, but using 20 lbs in the rears and 25-30 for the fronts can't be too far wrong. Also can use the "ground contact" method: With the tractor fully loaded and on a flat, level surface, inflate each tire so the tread makes contact across its full width, without any unnecessary sidewall bulge.

Sorry to hear about your BIL, our thoughts go with him.

 

[Lrobby99]

First Service Report: It went well. The glow plug reported to me was either a balky ignition switch, or was overstated. I worked the switch a bit and the preheat indicator lamp lit, and I measured voltage at the bus bar on top of the engine. Oh, and it started good. Not that it was cold out.

Removed the deck and engine cowling. Oil and filter and both fuel filters changed. Lubed everything on the deck. Scraped a load of grass off the underside. Put it all back together, runs and cuts almost like new. I say almost because the blades are a bit notched up and need a good sharpening. I'll get that going soon.

Thanks for all the help, guys, this Kubota is ready to romp and stomp.

And thanks for the good words for Paul, the Kubota owner and BIL.

 

[Grandad4]

That's good to hear.

Just a suggestion about sharpening the blades. Maybe it's just my clumsiness, but I've not had good luck removing the blades as the large bolt securing each blade is often overtightened and snaps before the threads break free. A compression washer is used that should be moderately torqued in, but is easily overtightened. I've had to drill out two broken blade bolts and re-tap the spindle threads... a PITA job. Possibly a left-hand thread on the blade bolt also... can't recall off the top. For me, it's just easier to use an angle grinder and sharpen the blades in place. If your blades are in passable shape without major sharpening, you might want to do the same. Maybe someone else knows a better approach!

Another thing to watch for is a worn drive belt. A couple of years ago mine started showing evidence of the belt slipping with incomplete cutting of the woody stems you get near the end of the mowing season. A new belt, while not cheap, made a big difference. If that one has never been changed, it will probably show the same symptoms at some point.

 

[David_Kb7uns]

Never had any problems with the blade bolts, have always coated with the silver colored anti seize every time they are removed. Also have 2 sets of blades and keep a set ready to go, do not forget to rotate positions of your blades to even out wear patterns.

David

 

[Grandad4]

David, thanks for the anti-seize idea. I'll try it next time the opportunity arises. Spent many hours cleaning out those busted bolts!

 

[Toyboy]

I have 2 sets of blades also. I'll change them out in the fall when I'm prepping deck for winter storage (power wash, grease, etc.) so I don't have to think about it in the spring. Just hook up & go. I use the never seize also and torque to manufacturers spec. Never had a problem.

 

[Lrobby99]

Nice advice gentlemen.
The deck is actually 2-3 years new, and the blades have been off once or twice. I do like that two sets of blades idea. I mean as long as I'm not paying.
Thanks!!

 

[Lrobby99]

Follow-up report:
The BX is running well. I can hardly get another guy off it long enough to perform a check-up.
And that grass is having a bumper crop season.

About the engine oil, should I have used specific diesel engine oil? I used Conventional 10W-40
I can change it out if need be.
But not on Saturday.
The BIL funeral is Saturday.
Thanks.

 

[RaydaKub]

Follow-up report:
The BX is running well. I can hardly get another guy off it long enough to perform a check-up.
And that grass is having a bumper crop season.

About the engine oil, should I have used specific diesel engine oil? I used Conventional 10W-40
I can change it out if need be.
But not on Saturday.
The BIL funeral is Saturday.
Thanks.

You are probably OK for the warmer weather, but next time you change, I highly recommend a trip to Wal-Mart for a jug of Shell Rotella T6 synthetic. The engine is so much smoother now.

 

[woody]

You are probably OK for the warmer weather, but next time you change, I highly recommend a trip to Wal-Mart for a jug of Shell Rotella T6 synthetic. The engine is so much smoother now.

what he said, that T6 is some good stuff.