Cold weather problems NH TC-29

[stowepotato]

I think it's all resolved now. The temperature finally got above 32 for the last couple of days; that helped.
For the problem of the dead hydraulics: I had tried to heat the oil by forcing it through the relief valve. Only did it for a few moments because of the extreme noise it produced. The next time I started it is when I noticed the unresponsive hydraulics. I took the relief valve out to see if it was stuck open. It didn't appear to be stuck and was clean, but when I reinstalled it I got the functions back. With the weather a bit warmer, I was able to get smooth operation as the oil warmed up.
Next step was to change the filter. Since I already bought new oil (Case Hy-Tran), I also changed that too. I haven't found a way to do a crackle test on the oil yet but will save a sample to try later. The not-so-old oil didn't really look milky but definitely dark/cloudy. I used to have a Ford NAA and indeed water would get down around the shift boot so I know what frozen solid and milky oil is. I could let it settle to see if it clears but instead will donate it my diesel mechanic for his shop heater in return for his advice.

 

[V1Rotate]

I put some cardboard in front of the oil cooler in cold weather so that the hyd fluid will warm up. Work great, and I think that helps get rid of moisture.

 

[stowepotato]

I'm not aware that I have an oil cooler. Is that only on the hydrostatic drive models?
I do have a block heater which makes a huge difference for the engine starting in cold weather.
Unfortunately, my TC-29 (gear model) sits outside most of the year and only finds room in the barn during the winter. I think it's time to build a shelter for the rest of the year. In my opinion, it's the temperature swings which contribute to condensation more that getting rained on. Either way, a shelter should help.

 

[V1Rotate]

Mine is a hydrostatic and it has an oil cooler in front of the radiator. I also put a piece of cardboard that partially blocks the radiator. Never had a problem with overheating, I can plow snow for hours using the FEL and the hydraulic hoses feel warm to the touch but by no means are they overly hot.