MF2850E transmission fluid clear?

[candrdavis]

I don't see anything in the little window so I called the service department where I bought my tractor. He told me the fluid is clear and unless I know it leaks it should be fine. No dipstick, why is there just a 'window' if the fluid is clear?
Pictures for your perusal.

 

[KennyG]

Ask your dealer about hydraulic fluid dye. If he can't help you find a John Deere dealer and get some.

 

[candrdavis]

Thanks. I asked him about using dye and he said they never use it. It's just possible he doesn't know a whole lot more than I do. Scary. Dye seems necessary in this case.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

It's quite clear, but not sure that clear. That looks low

 

[candrdavis]

It's quite clear, but not sure that clear. That looks low

It looks empty, right? I'm heading to the dealer on Friday to buy some fluid. How much I'll need is another question.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

That tractor probably holds 10+ gallons, so I'd buy 5.

 

[CloverKnollFarms]

When it is running, do you see any movement in the window, like oil moving?

 

[candrdavis]

When it is running, do you see any movement in the window, like oil moving?

Have not paid attention. Tractor won't start; can't find the safety switch I've offended so started looking at everything. I realize the low fluid isn't the starting problem but I consider it a problem in a basic way so I want that resolved before I go back to the starting problem.

 

[candrdavis]

Added about 4 quarts. It isn't actually clear.

 

[KennyG]

Assuming this tractor is pretty new and a gallon low I would have some questions about leaks and/or dealer prep.