Ford 3930

[ajmbonaire]

Today when I checked the fluids all levels were OK. But, the transmission oil looked milky as if there is water in the oil. The rear end and hydraulic oil is fine. The engine oil is OK too. Coolant level is where it should be. Can anyone tell me how water can get into the trans oil or what makes it look this way? I checked the shop manual but can't see what could be the cause of this.

 

[Diamondpilot]

You should ask the moderators to move it to the Ford Tractor section.

If there are no leaking seals it could be just condensation. I would drain and flush with diesel fuel y driving around for 3 or so minutes easily to wash it out then refill with the proper fluid and keep a eye on it. That is if its a gear drive tractor. If hydrostat you just need to change the fluid and use it hard for a few hours then drain again and put in fresh fluid.

Chris

 

[Jerry/MT]

Today when I checked the fluids all levels were OK. But, the transmission oil looked milky as if there is water in the oil. The rear end and hydraulic oil is fine. The engine oil is OK too. Coolant level is where it should be. Can anyone tell me how water can get into the trans oil or what makes it look this way? I checked the shop manual but can't see what could be the cause of this.

Water can get into the transmission via condensation and via loose or torn boots over the shift levers (open station tractors). If you work the tractor regularly , the fluid heats up and water will eevaporate. When machines are used for 15 minutes a week or are left outside or in unheated building over the winter with no use, water can condense not only in the tranny, but also in the rear axle housing, the fuel tanks( if not left full), the crankcase, etc. the higher the humidity and the bigger the temperature change, the worse the problem.

If your shift lever boots are damagedor loose and you have an open station tractor, put a 5 gallon plastic bucket over the shift levers until you can get the boots replaced or sealed. If you boots aren't the source, then work the snot out of your tractor once a week to help get rid of the condensate.

 

[ajmbonaire]

Thanks for the timely replies. All I could think was a costly repair would be in order. I feel a little better now. I think I will drain and replace the oil tomorrow. I normally cover it with a tarp when I leave it outside but it wasn't covered when it rained two days ago. I sure hope thats all it is.

 

[3930dave]

Tarp plus bucket is a good idea, most tarps will leak a bit before long.

On my 3930 (manual, 2 sticks) I try to remember to leave the High/Low stick in between the 2 positions when I park - that way the boot on the stick is covering the base most effectively. Mostly makes a difference if you happen to get a heavy rain with wind.

Best Rgds, Dave.