Kubota BX232 - Major leak after adding a gallon of hydraulic fluid

[sixdogs]

The only reason to take the oil out is to know what you have in there. You still aren't sure. The same oil goes back in, just measured to the correct amount. You could also have the wrong filter on it but that doesn't sound likely. The part number is on the side of the filter so check it out.
Consider calling the dealer because it doesn't all add up.

 

[Tractor_Jim_CT]

I've been spending time searching for rear leaks and a common problem is rear axle seals. Has anyone encountered this? I think this would be a dealer repair.

 

[KWentling]

The only reason to take the oil out is to know what you have in there. You still aren't sure. The same oil goes back in, just measured to the correct amount. You could also have the wrong filter on it but that doesn't sound likely. The part number is on the side of the filter so check it out.
Consider calling the dealer because it doesn't all add up.

Checking to be sure the right filter was put on would be a good idea.

 

[sixdogs]

Remember, go with the easiest answer first. Don't overthink problems.

 

[Volfandt]

Caution, DO NOT run the tractor w/low or no hydraulic fluid. You will damage the HST.

On a BX23, just above and behind the left rear wheel is the hydraulic block, return pipe and lower is the strainer. All the external hydraulic implement feeds run to that block. With the hydro fluid topped off to the correct level, start the tractor, put on a pair of safety glasses, shine a light in that area and look for any leaks. Also, the BH loop back connection is directly behind and under the rear of the seat, it is a soft line, check both connectors and lines for leaks.
As stated the vent is at the top of the HST under the seat, so while checking for leaks flip the seat forward so you can get a good clear view of the area.
A leak such as you recorded shouldn't be that hard to pinpoint.
Good luck

 

[Tractor_Jim_CT]

Thanks Volfandt - do you recommend I take off the rear left tire to do this? The tire is weighted and I have to use the hydraulic BH legs to raise the back tires up then adjust the legs to line the tire lugs back up later to put tire back on. Have a call into new dealer but like your idea to look first.

 

[Volfandt]

Yes, removing the tire should give you good visibility in that area. I used swap my Bars and Turfs around twice a yr so removing that wheel isn't that bad. My bars and turfs are loaded.
You should use a floor jack and safety jack stand to lift that side unless you have your fluid properly topped off. Then I wouldn't run it too long, especially if it's shooting the oil out.
I've learned some hard lessons along the way and one is to do as much trouble shooting as possible. It'll save you $$ and get the problem fixed sooner.
Another is to go through ALL the easy fixes before taking things apart and yet another is not to fix anything that isn't broke.

 

[Tractor_Jim_CT]

I called the dealer and their guy can't pick up BX23 until Dec 5th
The day of the leak I took different angle picture shots and this new posted picture is interesting.
If you look at the stream of hydraulic fluid streaming in this new picture, it seems to be coming out of the axle
and not from above it. What do you guys see? If this is the axle seal, is this hard to change?
If one changes the left should the right side also be changed?

The tractor is 1 1/2 hours from me and I will not be able to look closer until Wednesday.
Thanks for the help everyone.

 

[4570Man]

I'd check the oil level first thing. If it's good I'd cautiously put it back to work. If it's not good I'd find the source of the leak and go from there.

 

[TMGT]

That axle seal is pushed out, something caused it, need to figure that out first. If it was pushed out from excessive pressure you might be able to just drive it back in without replacing the seal.