HST / Hydraulic fluid level

[shovelmike]

I was verifying fluid levels on my Mahindra eMax 22 HST, the owner's manual isn't clear. Not running I see no oil in the sight glass, running it is right even with the full mark red dot. Preferably the manual should specify running- not running, cylinders extended or retracted.
I've seen no indication of lack of fluid, very nice smooth and powerful hydraulics. I have moved a lot of gravel and soil with this machine in the few weeks I have owned it....it does an impressive job in spite of its small size.

 

[seville009]

I always check mine with all cylinders retracted. Shouldn’t matter if it’s running or not

 

[shovelmike]

Thanks, cylinders retracted is what all the manufacturers I have seen recommend. As mentioned, everything is working great, don't want to overfill in error.

 

[RNeumann]

The typical is with the machine off. While a good check their is a lot of leeway in the level. Reminder it holds gallons, has to work at all angles and, as mentioned, needs to vary greatly with accessories extended or retracted. Think of more like the coolant reservoir/overflow, not engine oil. As conditions change, so will the level.

Bottom line- it will be fine as is, but if you want to add a bit of fluid that’s fine too.

 

[shovelmike]

Thanks, that makes sense, it puts my mind at ease that it is ok.

 

[DMW]

Most SCUTs only take a quart of fluid to go from nothing in the sight glass, to completely filling it. From your description, it would only take a pint of fluid or less, to bring it up to the middle of the sight glass.

 

[shovelmike]

Thanks DMW.

 

[orezok]

It seems to me that since there is always fluid on both side of the cylinders, extended vs retracted would only vary by the rod volume. Pretty small amount