Front Transaxle fluid

[Strongman]

My Branson 3820 has 42 hours on it and I was looking for all the locations that I will need to service when I got to the 50 hour mark. When I checked the front transaxle fluid, I found out that my fluid was below even the low mark on the dipstick. It superised me because I haven't noticed any leakage what so ever on the floor (cement). The manual says to check it at 50 hours, but I would suggest checking it before hand. I decided to drain the fluid and add new since I was so close to the service time anyway. When I went to loosen the drain plug (center one) I found that it wasn't even hand tight! I'm guessing that fluid might have leaked out when I cranked the wheel all the way (or else it might never have had enough fluid in it - I don't want to think about that). I've heard of others on this group finding loose bolts, now I plan on checking every bolt I can find!

 

[IH3444]

Tighten it up, and fill with a good 75-90 synthtic fluid. Mobil1, or Amsoil severe gear fluid.

 

[5030]

I had that happen with a L3710 Kubota that I had about 7 years ago. I checked the front axle at around 25 hours and found less than a pint of UDT in it after letting it drain for a few hours. The drained UDT was slightly milky with what looked like metallic residue and I took the total amount to my dealer in a sealed bottle and told him that I refilled the front case with UDT and if I had any problems (which I never did up until the time I traded it in on a bigger Kubota), I'd expect the dealer and/or Kubota to stand good for any or all repairs due to lubrication failure or failure of related parts. They readily agreed to that (in writing I might add).

I'd have a talk with your dealer on a just-in-case scenario.