Oil & Fuel Questions about a TS1610-checking oil and others

richdeming · Mar 17, 2007

Hi Folks,

Just got the tractor a while back and with some helpful advice form Byrd I got my implements and have been having a ball. I don't have, and can't find, any type of manual, or I would look there before asking.

I had a couple of questions about these: First, I was tilling yesterday and I think I ran it a little hard, got in a hurry and had it in medium rather than low (where it had worked excellently for two days). Anyway, I evidently overheated it, judging from the steam coming off the engine. I stopped immediately and it's fine today. My question is whether there is any better way to tell if the thing is overheating? Don't have any heat gauge, so do I just look for the steam?

Secondly, I went to check the oil today and, well, where's the dipstick? I thought I'd change it, since I bought it with 900 hours on it and don't know when it was changed last. I see the filter and oil pan & plug. Is there a dipstick? Any recommendations about what type of oil & filter and where to locate?

Is there a good way to locate a manual for this? I bought a manual for several Iseki's from a "Mr. Bolens" on ebay. It's helpful because it looks similar, but it doesn't have my model. And finally does someone have a good place to call and order parts?

Thanks a bunch, Rich

larso1 · Mar 17, 2007

Hi Rich, for my TS1610F (the 4x4 model) I use a NAPA 1568 oil filter. It has the correct threads. The dipstick on mine is on the left side of the engine (sitting in the driver's seat) at the oil pan level. It threads into the pan at an angle and keeps crankcase pressure in. Most people use 15W-40 diesel rated motor oil. The manual specifies diesel rated 30W straight for temps above 70-deg. F. and 20W below, but the multi-grade oil nowadays is probably the best compromise.
I use the Bolens Safety and Operation Instruction manual that covers TS-1902 thru -1904 models (Bolens G192 & G194), same as the TS1610 but with larger fuel injectors I'm told. I have the Bolens Service and Repair manual for the same model series and it is very close to the specs of the model we have. I also have the Bolens Parts List manual for the same series and there are small differences in our Japanese market models. It has served me well. I think Len Shaeffer has these for sale.
As for parts, just do a search and it will come up with a long list of parts suppliers like Len and others. I recommend DESSCO.com for Isuzu diesel motor parts, also on the list. Good luck. I'm about to dust off my tractor and till a few areas too.

Bill

lens12 · Mar 18, 2007

I can supply you with parts & manuals. I have a couple TS1610 parts tractors.

richdeming · Mar 18, 2007

Thanks. Once again this forum is great! Any thoughts on the overheating issue? Do I just keep an eye out for steam? I'm loving this tractor so far and I don't want to ruin the engine.