Front axle oil

[TVZ]

The manual to my 2018 Massey Ferguson tractor (1726E) says to check the front axle oil level regularly. It has always been good. But recently I started seeing yellowish spots in the snow. Upon checking the front axle oil, I found that it was low. I read that the seals sometimes start leaking, and that in such a case, it can be helpful to start adding GL4 80w-90 gear oil rather than the transmission/hydraulic oil normally used. I bought a quart for $21, and started adding it, periodically checking the level. I ended up adding the whole quart, and it still seems to be low. My mechanical knowledge is basic. Does anyone have any tips for me? Thank you.

 

[big bubba]

you're correct in that hyd oil is thinner than GL5 80/90. unfortunately, i feel that although the GL5 will reduce leakage, if you already notice leaking, the seal has been compromised & will need replacement. You may be able to DIY given all the utube info. let us know what you decide, regards

 

[old and tired]

It would be best to drain the hydraulic oil out and refill with 80/90 gear oil to have a chance to work. How bad is it leaking?? (how many "yellow dots" in the snow)

 

[RjCorazza]

I would also drain and refill rather than just add gear oil, unless you plan to replace the seals anyway.
I run 75w110 in my front axle, even though the spec is 80w90.

 

[big bubba]

I would also drain and refill rather than just add gear oil, unless you plan to replace the seals anyway.
I run 75w110 in my front axle, even though the spec is 80w90.

never heard that grade of 75/110, must be syn. agree, go heavier grade & see what happens.

 

[RjCorazza]

never heard that grade of 75/110, must be syn. agree, go heavier grade & see what happens.

It is an odd weight, yes synthetic gear lube by Amsoil.
I use their 75w140 in all of my gear boxes.

 

[big bubba]

good point, just never heard of 75/110. thx

 

[TVZ]

It would be best to drain the hydraulic oil out and refill with 80/90 gear oil to have a chance to work. How bad is it leaking?? (how many "yellow dots" in the snow)

Just a few dots. I'll give it a try...

 

[ray66v]

Though it is a popular idea to switch to gear oil for leaks, 80W-90 is not substantially thicker than hydraulic transmission oil, at normal temperatures.

Transmission oil is measured on the motor oil scale. But, gear oil is not. It has it's own scale.

Different products will have different viscosity's, even at the same weight. But, there is not going to be a substantial difference between any of them in these categories.

 

[ray66v]

Normal temperatures?? We are talking about yellow drops in the snow?

Even AI could get this question correct... Which oil is thicker at 32* and below...

I used 75W/110 in my front axle.

Not coherent enough for me.

If you have a question, please try again.