Rmd8136
Gold Member
I have a 2012 5065E with 553 FEL, 78 hours. Just got June 2013. Today I worked the loader pretty hard for about 3 hours moving stumps that were uprooted with track-hoe. Some of these stumps had to weigh 1500 lbs or more. Anyway, noticed some hydraulic fluid on the steel plate directly below mid valve. Plate probably protects hoses from debris. It was 90 degrees today in SC. No gas tank melting or anything. The amount of fluid was approx. 1/4 oz and had collected dust/dirt. I just wiped it off. It was the first time I have ever seen that. I have seen dust on the quick connect couplings and I have removed the loader and left on stands once. No problems. My question is this normal? Never been close to low on hydraulic fluid. I wipe the quick connects off with a rag every now and then. I don't know if a "whisp" of leakage at these high pressure seals is "normal". I have seen dust collect on the 2 line fittings that connect to rear axle. Is this something that needs addressing? The torque on these fittings is low: 34 ft-lbs for flat face O-rings and 212 inch lbs for the others. I don't want to over tighten the joints. Like I said, never seen the oil collect on plate before. I am new to tractors and obviously this one is still in warranty. I have had no issues with any hydraulic functions at all. This 553 loader is very powerful to a novice. Thanks
