Kubota, Rotella, and engine temp

[Sully2]

Since most tractor ( and auto for that matter) gauges are semi "funky" I'd get a REAL GAUGE and hook it up and see exactly what the temp ACTUALLY is.

If the temp is actually running HIGH...termostat would be changed first...and if you like Rotella..as I do...Id go with the 5W-40 syn..which I did and Im glad I did.

 

[oledocward]

Thanks to all for good, sage advise; I think I will switch to the Rotella, just for the convenience and satisfaction most of the folks here have had with it.

And I will check the engine temp with a laser thermometer. I probably just worry too much because the tractor is almost new.

Does anyone know if the BX tractors have a replaceable thermostat? That was the next thing I was going to check after cleaning the radiator, screen, etc., but could not find a thermostat listed as a part anywhere.

Thanks, again to all.
oledocward

 

[Lockport]

I doubt that two different oils of similar viscosity will cause a difference in operating temp. More likely your radiator, or prescreen os obstructed with dust/dirt. Until you exceed the capacity of your cooling system, the operating temp is determined by your thermostat. If the oil is really causing you to run hot, it would mean it wasn't lubricating adequately, in which case your engine wouldn't last very long. I use Rotella myself in my BX2200. It only runs hot when the screen becomes clogged with dust & it's under heavy load. I just clean the screen & the temp immediately falls back to where it belongs. The screen & radiator tend to plug up quickly when mowing in dry conditions.

Absolutely! The screen behind the rad is dirty. Careful of the foam strip when pulling it out. It tears easy but can be glued. If it is already torn, then there is probably a lot of fine dust on your rad behind that screen (IE removed) behind the battery and compressed air or a small hand brush will get it off. I had the same problem last year. It ran hot all the time, which I discovered after discovering the temp wire had come off the sensor and that is why it would never warm up. Kept adding coolant too! Glad I never hurt anything.

 

[Volfandt]

Yes, BX engines have thermostats. They are located in the goodeneck where the upper radiator hose attaches to the engine and it is rated @ 180 degrees.