Front Axle seal seeping on 4410

GDebt · Apr 1, 2006

I just got my tractor back from the dealer and now I see moisture on the left front hub. After running it half a day yesterday there is a small amount of oil on the rim.
I am wondering if this is worth fixing the leak isn't even discoloring the rim I have 4 gallons of fluid for the axle but the fluid level still shows full.
The one odd thing is when I removed the drain plug to check the fluid there was pressure I could hear being released. I can't find anything in the manual about a vent or pressure in the front axle can anyone comment on this. To me pressure in the axle housing would cause the weakest seal to leak.
This looks like a simple repair but I don't have a press. Perhaps a good excuse to buy one.

beenthere · Apr 1, 2006

I admit I don't understand what you are describing.
Just got it back from dealer. Why not let them deal with it?
Moisture at the hub. not oil?
Pressure. Maybe filled cold and then it warmed up, expanding to cause pressure. I'd relieve the pressure and see if it builds again.

Simple repair. What would you repair? the seal or the vent?

Confusing to me. But I'd be back to the dealer as it would be a problem for them to fix. IMO. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif Good luck.

cowboydoc · Apr 1, 2006

I wouldn't mess with it unless it got worse. Just keep checking the oil.

Dicky · Apr 1, 2006

My 4300 just started leaking as well. I also have the pressure noise when I open the dipstick. I am bringing it to the dealer on monday.

GDebt · Apr 3, 2006

Sorry about the detail. I just had some other work done and got the tractor back and 2 days later noticed the hub was wet with Hyd oil. I am a bit surprised that there seems to be pressure in the axle.
I have not found any comments on my searchs on line and the manual that states wether this is normal? What do the rest of you think?

cowboydoc · Apr 3, 2006

It's not normal. You've just got a small leak in the seal at the hub. A small leak is no big deal unless the oil bothers you. If it does get it fixed but it's not cheap.

Dave4410 · Apr 4, 2006

Both sides on mine started leaking shortly after reversing the front wheels for a wider stance and loader stability, as recommended by my dealer's service dept. At about that time I was working in mud sometimes over 18" deep. My guess is the grit from the mud worked its way in to the seals and the added stress from the wider track facilitated the problem. As long as I'm under warranty, I won't go back to the narrower stance. The extra stability with a loaded bucket in the air is remarkable. With "mud season" past, I've cleaned the mess off the tractor and will continue to add fluid and monitor the "seepage" until my dealer's 3-week back-up in the service dept. relents.

Dicky · Apr 6, 2006

I just got the axle front axle seals replaced at the dealer. Just over $200.00. I was very pleased it wasn't more $!

GDebt · Apr 6, 2006

Thanks it is good to know it isn't any worse than that.

I have been checking the fluid on mine each time I run it and I have found that if I check it before and after that seems to release any pressure and it doesn't leak. I was a diesel mechanic many years ago and back then differentials had vents. I don't see one on the front end so I am assuming the seal is getting weak and can't hold the pressure build up. Can anyone tell me if I am on the right track or should I be expecting a bigger bill if I take mine in for service?

Dave4410 · Apr 7, 2006

I think you might want an opinion on the pressure build-up from a John Deere mechanic. That doesn't sound good. The fluid in the front axle, as far as I know, should be functioning as an oil-bath, not under pressure. Perhaps you might check to be sure the level is not too high when it's hot. I think the fluid needs room to expand and then go back down as it cools. I wonder if you check the fluid level before starting-upin the morning if you would find no pressure.