New L2501 - Leaking antifreeze?

[ChemE]

Update: Set up mechanic said the right side tire/hub comes off the axle when shipped in the crate as it does not fit the crate. They assemble at the dealership and seal may have been nicked or paint chip etc. The one I thought was the easiest to fix (leaking loader block under the deck), should not need to be tightened by anyone - comes from factory set (per mechanic), it's a special bolt that is prone to crack if over tightened. He said he will take all bolts out near the antifreeze leak and try to get the pocket emptied. Going on 4 days, I think if it was a pocket it would be emptied already?

Confidence is getting lower. I was looking to replace an old JD LX188 in the spring with either a ferris zero turn or BX 2x70. At home we have a 3 acre lot, 1 acre grass, 2 open woods with partial slope (hence the 4wd BX). That is 6 months away, so I will see what becomes of the L2501.

 

[Soundguy]

hows it run?

 

[ChemE]

I think it runs great! Haven't done much work, only drive it around the gravel drive way. It sounds stupid, but I don't like to run diesels at high rpms (for the record I am not a mechanic or diesel longevity expert), that's what I like most about the L2501 it's rated range is 2200 rpm and the pto rpm is 2100. I was surprised on my front circle drive, a small incline would not climb (no traction) with the front loader on and only the box blade (LP1260). It needed more weight in the rear.

 

[Soundguy]

don't be afraid to run your machine at rated rpm. your pto rpm will be a ratio of engine rpm. in order to get correct pto rpm, you need correct engine rpm.

 

[davesl708]

Update: Set up mechanic said the right side tire/hub comes off the axle when shipped in the crate as it does not fit the crate. They assemble at the dealership and seal may have been nicked or paint chip etc. The one I thought was the easiest to fix (leaking loader block under the deck), should not need to be tightened by anyone - comes from factory set (per mechanic), it's a special bolt that is prone to crack if over tightened. He said he will take all bolts out near the antifreeze leak and try to get the pocket emptied. Going on 4 days, I think if it was a pocket it would be emptied already?


Confidence is getting lower. I was looking to replace an old JD LX188 in the spring with either a ferris zero turn or BX 2x70. At home we have a 3 acre lot, 1 acre grass, 2 open woods with partial slope (hence the 4wd BX). That is 6 months away, so I will see what becomes of the L2501.

If your heart is set on this tractor I would wait a few days after they finish fixing the leaks and then re-inspect it before signing anything.
May be best to ask for another tractor. This may be the one in a million that is prone to a lifetime of problems.
Trust your instincts on this. If your not comfortable walk away.

 

[ChemE]

Soundguy, I worded that a little wrong, to get the rated pto of 540 rpm the engine needs to be 2105 rpm (per the specs).

Davesl708, that is exactly what I told the sales guy, do not want this tractor. I like the model, just not this one. He said okay they will bring a different one. I'm expecting him to call back and pressure me not to. To this point, the sales and service people have been GREAT to work with, I just live in the "show-me state" and are waiting for the other shoe to drop. At that point I will be looking at different tractors and more than likely if this bridge is burnt, a different dealer.

 

[k0ua]

Soundguy, I worded that a little wrong, to get the rated pto of 540 rpm the engine needs to be 2105 rpm (per the specs).

Davesl708, that is exactly what I told the sales guy, do not want this tractor. I like the model, just not this one. He said okay they will bring a different one. I'm expecting him to call back and pressure me not to. To this point, the sales and service people have been GREAT to work with, I just live in the "show-me state" and are waiting for the other shoe to drop. At that point I will be looking at different tractors and more than likely if this bridge is burnt, a different dealer.

if you are unhappy with the 'bota, take a look at the other orange, the Kioti or the "other blue" the LS, both make good tractors. But I don't see why the Kubota can't be fixed or they could give you another one. I am down here in Branson, and I have had 2 Kubota's and now own the Kioti.

 

[davesl708]

Soundguy, I worded that a little wrong, to get the rated pto of 540 rpm the engine needs to be 2105 rpm (per the specs).

Davesl708, that is exactly what I told the sales guy, do not want this tractor. I like the model, just not this one. He said okay they will bring a different one. I'm expecting him to call back and pressure me not to. To this point, the sales and service people have been GREAT to work with, I just live in the "show-me state" and are waiting for the other shoe to drop. At that point I will be looking at different tractors and more than likely if this bridge is burnt, a different dealer.

I think if they are "good dealer" then they will get you the same model at the same price. Good luck with your tractor search. Too bad you found a lemon on the first try. It does happen but rarely.

 

[KBinCT]

My L3901 was dripping antifreeze after it's 1st few hours of use. I tightened the hose clamps and the leak would stop for a few days and then start back up. I called the dealer and they sent their service truck out the same day. The mechanic pressurized the coolant system and every hose clamp was leaking. He tightened the clamps all up and it hasn't leaked a drop since.

 

[Coyote machine]

Whatever you do, if you have dogs, don't let them near the anti-freeze/coolant. It is toxic and will kill them.
I don't think you have a 'lemon', just some things that need correction by your dealer. If you can get them to give you a different one then do so.
If you get this one back you could hose it down, when the engine is cold, with cold water to get any remaining coolant in crevices, on the side of the block, to finally be rid of any that might be continuing to drip from the engine compartment; though at this point unless there is an actual leak it should be done dripping by now. :confused3: