JD 4700 strange Hydraulic Oil Leak

[Kevin H]

Hi Everyone

I inherited a 2001, 4700 4X4 with loader and Hydro transmission. It has approximately 3,500hrs on it. My Uncle owned it from new and took extremely good care of it. All maintenances done, minor problems fixed right away including fuel solenoids that burnt out on a regular basis.

My problem is the starter went on it (grinding sound). I replaced the starter and all is good but I did notice that the flywheel area inside was soaked with hyd oil. Now on the right hand side of the tractor, half way up the bell housing hyd oil is leaking. I cannot see from exactly where but it is dripping down the side and the side of bell house is soaked and small puddle of oil on the shop floor forms when parked. After is sits for a couple of days, It starts up is fine and I go to move forward, it squeals for about 5-10 sec (sounds like it is coming from the front of the tractor) and then it runs perfectly fine.

What could this possibly be? I didn't think there was anything in there but a dry fly wheel.

Is it a difficult and or expensive repair?

Would you bother fixing the tractor or just scrap it?

With 3,500 hrs on it how much life could be left in it. Not sure if it is worth it. It runs great other than the leak and bit of squealing.

Any help and advise you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Kevin

 

[hosspuller]

Sounds like the seal on the transmission input shaft has failed. But, it could be something else leaking. Get someone with knowledge and experience to put their hands on the tractor for an evaluation. 3500 hours is nothing for 20 years. I'd take it from you unseen for a scrap price. So get it fixed and use it another 20 years.

 

[Kevin H]

Thank you for the reply.

I really do not have anyone with knowledge on these things other than going to the dealer. That why I was hoping someone on this forum wold know or let me know how hard it would be to split the unit to see what is going on.

Just wondering if anyone else has had the same problem as it only leak out of the right side of the bell housing by what looks like a timing cover plate. The bottom is dry.

I just like to go armed with some information prior to going to the dealership to ensure I don't get taken.

Thanks again

Kevin