JD 950 no brakes issue

Scotty Dive · Mar 18, 2012

I just picked up a 950 that was well maintained for its first 25 years and really sat outside for the last 5 with the 2nd owner. 2nd owner told me that it doesn't have any brakes and although I have yet to try to adjust them, he told me he went in to the brake housing and he said there was fluid (oil) in the casing. I checked the hydraulic fluid dip stick and its empty and I really cannot see where it leaked out, but wonder what my next step is. Do I fill it up with fluid and watch where it leaks out or just assume there is an oil seal in this housing that had dried up and needs to be replaced? Thanks in advance for you assistance

beenthere · Mar 18, 2012

Well, for sure get the hyd. fluid filled up. Then deal with looking for a leak. IMO.
May need to go after the seal that is leaking, but seems both seals wouldn't be leaking on both brakes.
Keep us up on what you learn as you poke around. Might be able to help.
A pic or two would help too.

Scotty Dive · Mar 19, 2012

While its really low I am going to try to adjust the brakes and open up the brake housing and see if its really leaking. I am also going to finish draining it and clean out the hydraulic filter screen before refilling.

vwnotrunning · Mar 19, 2012

The 950 should be similar to the 1050. The pivot post can be rotated to allow for more wear on the shoes. Our 1050 does have a leak in one of the seals. Very little actually comes out but the shoes are soaked. Looks like replacing the seal will be difficult. Maybe when the new shop gets built I will tackle it!