Can't see hydraulic fluid

[Slippy]

I have had a problem with my 6000 since I bought it new. I can't see the hydraulic fluid level on the stick. When I added my back hoe, the dealer put new mark on my stick, but the fluid is so clear I can never really see it on the stick. On the bottom is a cut out for the original level.

Also, does the pto and transmission take the same oil? I can't remember.

 

[rback33]

Why did he add a mark? This does not make sense to me.... Once the backhoe cylinders were filled they basically stay filled.. you would have needed to add oil, but the tank size does not change. Even if you have the aux pump it would have a seperate stick right.

 

[Slippy]

Can't really tell you for sure, it has been so long ago. Can only imagine it was due to increased volume, but I do see your point.

 

[fish_wisperer]

get some acetone from home depot, wash your dip stick with it, it will really dry it out so you can see better. fill resevoir to original mark on stick. also try shining a flashlight on it at an angle from below the stick and slightly away from your eyes, that works great for finding fuel leaks on airplanes.

 

[MtnViewRanch]

Retract all hydraulics and then check your fluid level. The lower tank level is to allow for the back hoe. There is more fluid in the tank with the hydraulics retracted then extended. I would think that was the reason for the dealer to re-mark the dip stick. I hope that this is clear.

Brian

 

[ejtaylor822]

I have had the same problem too, not being able to see the light colored or almost clear hydraulic fluid on a machined/shiny dipstick. I can see it dripping off, but, can't tell how far up in goes on the stick.

I have found something that works for me.

Pull the stick out and wipe it down getting it dry. Then stick it back in. While its in, find a dry spot on the towel or rag you just used. Pull the stick out and with the towel open, lay the stick on in the towel on the dry area and roll it (on the towel). You should then see wet spot on the towel from rolling the stick that will give an indication of the fluid level.

As far as the tranny and hydraulics using the same oil, I do not use the same in mine. Use 80/90 in the tranny and axles and Shell AW32 in the hydraulics. I know that UTF (Universal Tractor Fluid) made by Shell is suppose to work in the tranny and hydraulics, but, I believe its for tractors that use the tranny as a reservoir for the hydraulics. If yours has seperate reservoir/sump for the hydraulics from the tranny, I would not use the same. The only knock I have heard against UTF in the hydraulics is that they will run slower with the thicker fluid, especially when its colder.

Hope this helps,
Eddie