Satoh Beaver S-370 Gearbox oil question

SamR · Sep 23, 2005

Hi All
I changed the engine oil on my Beaver last nite and in the process I saw the rubber plug on the corner of the gear box by the shifter and popped it off to see inside. There was very little oil in there. I had been having trouble with my right brake hanging up first and later the PTO speed selector was very tight when moving the handle. Seems to me that the problems may be related to low oil in the case. I added 2 quarts of gear oil and the level is up, but it must hold a lot. I don't have a manual to refer to in order to see what the recommended capacity is and of course there's no dipstick to go by for a proper level. I have to wonder where the oil went as I haven't seen any leaks, even today after just having added 2 qts last night. After "exercising" the PTO handle a bit it is already noticably easier to move, I have not yet run it to play with the brakes to see if the right one is still hanging as bad. I thought maybe someone with more experience or even a manual may have some clues.
Thanks
Sam

alvanko · Sep 23, 2005

SamR,
The brake issue has nothing to do with the trans oil. It is probably rusty. Pull the rear wheels off so you can access the brakes. Take it apart and clean and lubricate the moving parts.
The transmission should have hydraulic oil in it not the gear lube. JD303 compatable. Wouldn't hurt to drain it all out and clean the suction screen and refill with fresh fluid. The little bit of gear oil you added won't hurt , but this is just a good maintanance practice. There is a "full level" plug on the side of the trans (I forget where). When you fill it up , when it runs out od the plug , it is full. I think around 3 gallons.
The PTO control is also probably rust. Spray the area where the linkage rod goes through the housing real well with PB Blaster or WD40 or something and work the lever a few times and it should free up.
I don't know if this link will work , but click here and try....http://f1.grp.yahoofs.com/v1/8Ig0Q3...9EOXr4hnXIBHQSDSfQgLmrdmus3VlL947SS/S-370.pdf

SamR · Sep 23, 2005

Thanks alvanko
The link didn't work but I figured that must be for yahoo groups for a mitsubishi/sato (they left the "H" off). Anyways I downloaded a pdf file of a slightly different name and it's printing now. I appreciate your help.
Sam

SamR · Sep 23, 2005

Actually to make life easier for others who may want such a manual, I have posted it:

s370 manual

Jakesmachining · Sep 26, 2005

Hi,
My Beaver has a front end loader and uses 3 1/2 gallons of universal oil...

Capp · Oct 29, 2005

Thanks for a look at the manual SamR. I was wondering what the full level was on the transmision also. Now I know.

BillRodgers · Oct 30, 2005

The level plug information is also found on my web site, satohparts.com. Go to parts, then S370, and click on "Oil level plug". There is other info there that may be helpful. We have parts and manuals for your tractor. Bill 1-800-609-5110