Hydraulic Drift - Since Tranny Oil Change

[Windward]

Last fall I bought a used Cub Cadet SC2400 with 80 hours on it. I have used it around the place for some small projects and I never noticed the hydraulics slipping at all. A few weeks ago I changed the transmission oil and filter before starting a large patio project. Since that time I have moved about 40 yards of dirt and backfilled about 10 yards of #1 stone. While doing the stone, I noticed that my bucket was slowly dropping (I think this is called "drift").

I used Case Akcela Hy-Tran UltraAction and follow all the instructions in the manual, including the start up procedure post oil change. The dealership is the one who recommended the Case oil and I called the manufacturer and they confirmed that the Cub Cadet was spec'ed for that oil.

I suspect I have a leaky seal or a leaky control valve. Is there an easy way to isolate where my problem may be?

Is this something I can continue to use as long as the drop is slow? Or am I going to cause more damage than if I were to fix it now?

As you can tell I am new to hydraulics and I appreciate all your input.

Thanks
Matt

 

[jenkinsph]

Some drift or leak down is normal, if it becomes excessive enough to bother your use I would repair it. Not much chance of damage if the fluid isn't leaking out externally.

 

[TSO]

It's possible you now have air in the system. There could be a bleeder bolt near (or on) your hydraulic pump housing. Check the manual for it... It is listed in my manual. I actually have two, one for the main hydraulic pump, and one for the steering pump.

 

[Windward]

I do have a minor amount of oil leaking from the cylinders.....just enough to gather some dust....not enough to cause a drip.

I checked my book and could not find any info about a bleeder valve. And when I look at the valve itself, nothing jumps out at me as a bleeder valve.

I suppose I will just live with it til it get's bad enough for me to take it in.

Thanks!