New to me DK45

[kevin5881]

I have been lurking here for a few weeks and absorbing what I can. I currently own a 2001 Kubota l4310 HST that has served me well. I was looking to add quick tach, turfs, third function and draft control. These additions were going to cost 4k to add to my current machine. I recently can across a 2003 DK45 that is a near carbon copy of my 4310. The Kioti was equipped with all of these features. I was a little hesitant about the shuttle shift vs the HST but after operating the shuttle shift, I think it is going to work out just fine. The DK45 seems to be a great machine with around 600 hours. I have a few questions that concern me with the new machine:

It has foam filled turf tires. I really like the idea of this but the front tires are going to need replacing in the near future. How bad is it to change out foam filled tires?

While inspecting the tractor, I pulled the dipstick on the rear housing of the transmission and noticed that there was a bit of pressure release when the dipstick was removed. Is this normal?

I had read of a few having issues with the front engine seal going bad. Is this a common issue? I inspected the area behind the front pulley and it showed no signs of leaking

Here are some pictures of the new rig.

 

[DK35vince]

I think foam filled tires need to be cut off.
Never heard of the front seal issue.

 

[Highgear]

From your Pic's it looks like your front tires will be around for another 10 years or more .

 

[ritcheyvs]

I think the older DK45 is a great machine: strong and reliable. No computers; just proven mechanical, hydraulic, and electric systems. This one should have the old shutoff solenoid which is not vulnerable to broken gear teeth in the injector pump. I don't know anything about front seals or foam tires (except they are supposed to be good). Very few of us have ever replaced tires. The key switch is a weak point but periodic shots of contact cleaner or WD40 in the keyhole usually restores function. The crappy service manual is probably the worst thing about this tractor.

 

[Thomas]

:welcome: to TBN Kevin...enjoy.

 

[kevin5881]

Thanks for the info, glad to hear that there are few issues with these. The front tires look better in the pics. Side walls hare pretty beat up and there are cords showing and chunks of tread missing. I will probably run them through the winter and see how they do. I am pretty excited to have turfs. These look like they will be much gentler on my yard. I suspect that they will do pretty decent in the snow as well.