bobcat 743 chain case and gear case

[laurencen]

getting closer to completion but have a question, the chaincase can be filled to the front plug half way up the case or close to, can I fill the case from this hole or do I need to pull the brake mounting plate off? this service manual shows the gear cases that appear to be sealed units, is the lubrication also from the chaincase or separate oil reservoirs?

in 2016 we did replace chains and fresh oil by removing the brake plate but hoping to avoid that part of the project, any help appreciated.

 

[laurencen]

whats your opinion, this chaincase was last opened in 2016 we replaced one sprocket and both chains, we do not recall how far we filled it up but for sure not to the front plug Im guessing more than it should have had.

just cracked the front bolt and this is what comes out, my guess it water is getting in, as we never use it in water it got in thro the brake plate though I just removed the 6 bolts and it was siliconed well or at least it looked that way. the front cover above brake plate is now preventing me lifting the brake plate but will do that tomorrow and pump it dry.

is there anywhere else water can get in? no leaks on axles so water did not get in that way, anyway here is a few pictures of the oil that ran out, the one with black swirls is residule motor oil

 

[TractorTech]

Just drained the chain cases on a friend's NH LX665. One looked just like yours, milky brown. The other was black. 4900 hrs, never been changed. I'm thinking condensation on the one. Located in the 5-6000 ft mountains of Southern California where it sees some snow and rain, but not real humid.