Hydraulic Fluid 3 Quarts Low

[davitk]

I finally got around to changing the transmission and hydraulic filters on my L3240. By the time I got the old filters off and the new on, I had lost 3 quarts (I know, I know, nobody wants me on their pit crew ) Since the new grand L's don't call for a fluid change at this point, I don't have any new on hand and what is lost is contaminated, so I checked the dip stick and it is still registering between the two notches, apparently in the "OK" zone. Does this sound right??

 

[Mike_Kanzer]

Was that after it ran for awhile? I recently changed the hydraulic oil on my L3830 and found the level was ok initially, but after I idled it for 5-10 minutes I needed to add oil to get the correct level.

 

[KennyV]

Three quarts low in a system that holds 10 gallons is the same as being one pint low in a system that holds five quarts. Would you be concerned if your car engine was a pint less than full?
If you have it add it, if not, do not worry about it. KennyV.

 

[Happyman]

I agree with KennyV (heh, that rhymes )
After changing my filters (L3940) I was a little below the full mark and everything is fine. Don't worry unless the level falls to the low mark. Reading that hydro dip stick is a &#tch! The fluid should be colored so we can see it easier. I first thought it was empty because I could not see any on the stick....until I turned it just right in the sunlight and barely saw where the dip stick was wet.

 

[techman]

Depending on what accessories you have or had hooked up, it is entirely possible that the three quarts are in cylinders. As the cylinders extend, they take in oil, and if you have a hoe or loader, that could be the difference.

paul

 

[KennyV]

Happyman:
Darken your hydro dip stick with gun blue and you will see the oil level line easily on the dark background. KennyV

 

[Happyman]

Happyman:
Darken your hydro dip stick with gun blue and you will see the oil level line easily on the dark background. KennyV

Nice idea
I'll give that a try.
Thanks

 

[ultrarunner]

Are Hydraulic Systems designed with safeguards for low fluid?

I was running my D3 last year and didn't notice a leak in my angle tilt cylinder until I tried to lower my ripper and it wouldn't budge... I was down about 3 gallons.

I shut it down as soon as I discovered the problem and repaired the cylinder before I started the tractor and haven't noticed any problems since.