What Should Drained Hydraulic Oil Look Like?

[F_22]

Well, I had the dealer pick it up for warranty service. They agreed that the oil sitting in the reservoir was relatively clear but the oil that came out the bottom was loaded with water. They're flushing and refilling it. They had no explanation as to how they could have missed the white, slimy oil when they opened the system near the bottom (manifold block) to install the FEL just before I took delivery. At that time they also failed to torque the front hooks to anywhere near the 300 Ft-Lb specified.

There was some discussion of possible charges but I made it abundantly clear to them that I've had this tractor for less than 4 months, that in that time it has always been under cover, and that I expect them to handle it. End of discussion. I'm PO'd now and if there's a bill I'm going to raise a holy stink with NH.

I also told them I expect them to fix:
the stiff, totally balky range lever/linkage,
the sticking, jerky 3PH lift lever/linkage,
the HST creeping in reverse with my foot off the pedal,
the intermittent neutral start switch,
the brakes that don't stop the tractor unless you stand on the pedals.

Oh, and I also told them expect them to not keep the tractor for a week like it took them to tighten the FEL hook bolts. We'll see what happens.

 

[F_22]

Dealer drained and refilled hydraulic oil and apologized profusely. Even suggested they do it again for free before my warranty is up in July. Said they have had a number of brand new machines come in from NH with water in them. Kinda makes you wonder.

Dealer also made all adjustments. Everything better but range lever still somewhat balky.

Folks that know hydraulics at my place of employment (large aircraft manufacturer) told me that by the time the oil gets that bad (milky white) that pump, motor, cylinder, bearing life is probably cut in half. Doesn't bode well for longevity of this machine. Dealer disagreed but not too strongly.

 

[F_22]

I'll add something that might be useful for the other posters that have noted their hydraulics whine and/or howl when cold.

Since the hydraulic oil was changed mine is quiet immediately after a cold 40F start. Just a little hissing which is slightly louder that the normal warm sound. Draw your own conclusion. Remember that the oil in my reservoir looked clear, it's only when I dropped the large hydraulic filter that I found the watery oil.