John deere 3520 oil level

Plater · Aug 29, 2014

A week ago I checked the oil level in my 3520. It was normal level but a little clear for 40 hours on the deere Dino oil. I changed the air filter on the same day. The following day I cut the grass which is a 1.25 hour task. Today I checked the oil level and it is above the max line. It is still clear for diesel oil.

History of this mower. Bought new in 2008. It currently has 420 hours. The oil is changed annually as the tractor is never used enough hours to warrant more frequent oil maintenance. I consistently use power service additive to the fuel. Started using a 72" drive over belly mower 3 years ago and typically cut the grass at 2200-2300 rpm. The mower works awesome and actually out cuts my old exmark 60" XS mower.

The question to this group is, why would this oil level increase? It is not dark or white, but is pretty clear considering it is in a diesel.

Thanks for any comments

beenthere · Aug 30, 2014

Not sure what you suspect, but I'd suggest continuing to monitor the oil level before and after each use. As well, monitor the other fluids.

Now you talk history of "this mower" new 2008, 420 hours. You are referring to the 3520 tractor, right?

Let us know how much and how fast the oil moves above the "max line".

pmsmechanic · Aug 30, 2014

Is the difference in oil levels just from the way you were parked? Also you can have the oil tested to see if it's diesel fuel or antifreeze. Antifreeze usually turns the oil a grey color. Diesel just makes the oil thinner.

Plater · Aug 30, 2014

Changed oil this morning. Left oil 1/4" from top line of the dip stick. Essentially 4.5 quarts was added to get this level.

Finished cutting grass 3 hours ago and just rechecked the oil level. It is now even with the top line. Based on adding oil earlier, that is equal to 1/3 quart of oil. Once again the oil is still clear and does not smell like diesel fuel. John deere dealer said it may be a seal between the hydraulic oil pump and the engine. The hydraulic oil does not appear to be going down however. Maybe because the reservoir for hydraulic oil is substantially larger and a third of a quart is not really that noticeable.

The tractor was checked on concrete is barn in same location.

Will check it again in the morning when tractor is 100% ambient temperature.

My deere dealer does not have the ability to analyze the oil. Is there any advice where to send the oil for analysis?