L2550DT Front Axle Leak

[BFET529]

From my searching, it appears that this is a common problem with these tractors. I am debating whether or not I am capable of making this fix on my own, or if I should take it to be repaired. It seems as though it is leaking at the front axle pivot point on the "drivers side" of the tractor. I am not positive as to where it is leaking though... Just have an idea from where the leak is coming from and dripping to. Is this something that I can simply drain the oil, remove the wheel and tie rod, then loosen the inside 5 bolts that hold the whole hub unit to the axle. At this point, according the the manual, I would tap the inside cylinder shaped piece of the hub free from the top piece that bolts to the axle. Once these are separated, remove and replace the seal, tap back together, and bolt back to axle? Then replace tie rod, wheel, and add new oil? Please let me know if I am making this much easier than it really is. The Kubota dealer in town says they will repair this for between $200-$300.

Thank you ahead of time for all the help!!!

Here is a picture of where it appears to be leaking from.

 

[BFET529]

Or is there a quick fix oil additive that will help plug this leak, without causing damage to the tractor?

 

[johnk]

If it has the original axle oil it is probably Kubota udt. Mine leaked and I changed it out with 80/90 gear oil. After filling I turned the wheel lock to lock a few times and has been good ever since. They have pretty light viscosity oil in there and that was needed as long as it was under warranty, Try turning your wheel to the extreme right and extrene left a few times. Might have some grit or a stone pinched in the seal...

 

[BFET529]

Thanks Johnk... I gave it a whirl earlier, and seems to have slowed the leak down considerably. I already had 80/90 gear oil in it, but topped it off, and hopefully with a little more driving around and keeping an eye on it, it will reseal itself after getting some more dirt and grit out!

 

[bullbreaker]

Thanks Johnk... I gave it a whirl earlier, and seems to have slowed the leak down considerably. I already had 80/90 gear oil in it, but topped it off, and hopefully with a little more driving around and keeping an eye on it, it will reseal itself after getting some more dirt and grit out!

Howdy !
Not trying to come across as smart a--, or cause trouble but when you say top off : Do you mean fill up to specs(quarts) and/or just above fill plug check. Or filled completely to top brim of axle were you insert fluid ?


Boone

 

[BFET529]

bullbreaker, Since it had leaked oil while sitting in the garage, and not been driven since it had began leaking, I added oil to specs (to replace said lost oil) prior to driving and turning to wheel lock.