Checking hydraulic fluid???

[cumminspwrd]

Its a Massey Ferguson 255 with a FEL. When checking the fluid does the hydraulics need to be extended or does even matter since its a push pull system? Also does it need to be running?

Thanks in advance

 

[pat32rf]

Shouldn't matter on the cylinders, like you say its push pull with only the piston rod volume making a difference. I would run it up to temp, then check the amount of oil in the sump knowing that any oil galleries were still pretty well full. On my JD the main criteria is to have the tractor on level ground.

 

[Soundguy]

I agree.. if it used SA cyl's.. I'd extend them.. otherwise, it should be ok to check when static...

soundguy

 

[chh]

Just make sure you have the tractor on a level a spot as possible.

 

[savageactor7]

Just wanted to add if your having a hard time seeing the fluid brush the end of the dip stick with a black magic marker...much easier on the peepers doing that.

 

[IslandTractor]

Just wanted to add if your having a hard time seeing the fluid brush the end of the dip stick with a black magic marker...much easier on the peepers doing that.

Or add a red dye to the fluid. Dye sold by Caterpillar so I imagine it is trustworthy.

 

[Soundguy]

I've drilled small #10 or #12 holes in wide blade oil dipsticks before.. right at the fill line.. Intersecting the hole that is.. that way you can se the oil or thru the hole..

sounduy

 

[newbury]

Or add a red dye to the fluid. Dye sold by Caterpillar so I imagine it is trustworthy.

Do you have a link for that?
/edit from experience I carry a paper towel and touch it to the paper towel, another thread here recommended a blue shop towel.

 

[IslandTractor]

Do you have a link for that?
/edit from experience I carry a paper towel and touch it to the paper towel, another thread here recommended a blue shop towel.

No link. It is just a tip I picked up on TBN. Caterpiller dealers apparently carry the dye.

I use the paper towel method myself but would add the dye if I ever run across a Caterpillar dealer.