fill the crankcase via the filter hole?

bilrus61 · Mar 11, 2012

Ok I'm disabled and its not all that easy for me to take off the side panel (around the loader) on my Kubota L5040 to get to the fill plug. However after I've drained the oil and removed the oil filter there is a nice hole there where it would be much easier for me to fill the crankcase with a funnel and tube through filter hole. I can't see any issue with doing that...Fill it up till its right on the dipstick...screw on new filer....run a bit.......check oil level and go. Any issues with doing that other than that I might need to top off the oil level and would have to do that with the fill plug in the end anyhow?

TripleR · Mar 11, 2012

I am disabled too and that is what the dealer recommended. I have never tried it as I have my wife or son help me and it sure makes it easier. Of course my wife may have a different view of the process.:laughing:

Ford tractor · Mar 11, 2012

Are you talking about trying to force oil through the same hole the oil coming out of the filter would follow on the way to the main bearings?

If so, it would probably work, but a concern would be that it will take a long time. Remember the pump is pushing it at 30-50 psi to get it past the bearings.

I would think it a better solution to have a "trap door" put in place on the side panel so you can just open it up and access the fill port directly. It could be simple as a rough cut opening or elaborate with hinges, finished edges and a latch.

Zebrafive · Mar 12, 2012

Once you know the capacity of your tractor you should be able to put the proper amount of oil in the first time. BUT still Check after running to fill the filter. If the oil goes in, I see no problem doing it that way.