BX2350 leaking near rear axle

[drssg]

I attached a picture with the back tire removed. It leaks out onto the rear tire. I did a search, and the closest match I found was this thread.
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/kubota-owning-operating/245803-bx-24-blew-rear-axle.html

Like that thread, mine seems to be pressure-related. It leaked several ounces overnight, after I used it for maybe an hour. It seems to be mostly done leaking now, after sitting awhile. Unlike that thread, I don't see any sort of gasket sticking out. I'm also unable to find a vent plug referenced in that thread.

I have about 1100 hours on the tractor. Does anyone have any ideas?

Edit: I think I found vent plug and attached another picture. I believe it is the red button above the PTO, but I'm not seeing how to remove it. It also looks plastic and not too heavy duty, so I'm afraid to put a pair of pliers on it.

 

[PeterK]

You might try cleaning up that area around the vent first.

Also since this is on the left rear, check your strainer and o-ring seal.

 

[Pepsiboy]

Yes, the 2nd picture shows the vent. I would clean up around it, then CAREFULLY remove it and check that it DOES vent. Then replace and see what happens. The vent on my BX2350 has a little oil residue around it, so I assume that it is venting. I have had no problems with axle seal leaks. Got about 400 hours on it now.

Good luck with your little orange girl. I love mine ! ! !:thumbsup:

 

[drssg]

Thanks for the feedback. I cleaned my tractor and managed to get the vent plug out, without breaking it. I learned that it just pulls straight out, with no twisting or anything. I can barely get my finger into the space to even touch it, but I managed to get at it with a flat blade screw driver.

It seemed to vent OK, so I'm not sure whether I really helped anything. But I let it sit over night, and there were no leaks this morning. :thumbsup: I'll keep my fingers crossed and see how it does after mowing.

Also since this is on the left rear, check your strainer and o-ring seal.

The only time I've checked the strainer is after I've drained the transmission oil to change it. It looks like the oil would all drain out if I removed it first. Is that correct? I'm open to doing that, if needed. I just wanted to know what to expect.

Are you referring to the o-ring seal on the left side of the axle? That one visually looks OK to me, aside from the oil that was leaking out.