O-ring or seal problem? Steering on NX4510

[Northchar]

On my NX4510 the other day, I noticed what looks like a seal coming out of the top of the right side steering assembly/spindle?
Sure enough it's rubbery, but there's no oil leaking at all that I can see. I'm a tractor newbie (& no workshop), dealer is 3 hours away and the snow's falling like crazy today...always lousy timing for a problem...:laughing:

Is this a serious issue and something to monitor closely for a bit? I've included a photo.

thanks ahead of time for your help.

 

[MinnesotaEric]

Grease it and you'll be fine.

 

[Kioti Paul]

I agree with MinnesotaEric. It is designed to keep grease in / dirt out. With the seal intact you probably could expect the joint to last 10,000+ hrs, with the seal missing you can probably expect the joint to last 8,000+ hrs. Keep it greased, and it is very unlikely to get worn out (the rest of the tractor will wear out sooner).

Just my opinion, email/text the pict to your dealer and ask them.

 

[Northchar]

I agree with MinnesotaEric. It is designed to keep grease in / dirt out. With the seal intact you probably could expect the joint to last 10,000+ hrs, with the seal missing you can probably expect the joint to last 8,000+ hrs. Keep it greased, and it is very unlikely to get worn out (the rest of the tractor will wear out sooner).

Just my opinion, email/text the pict to your dealer and ask them.

Glad to hear this doesn't sound super serious. I'll see what the dealer has to say about the photo. The tractor still has warranty, but my dealer (excellent folks btw - Northern Acreage in Prince George BC) is a solid 3 hours away on snowy winter roads, so it has to be a worthwhile issue.

thanks for the responses!

 

[jimglassford]

Is it a real seal? I have the same issue on my New Holland 4630 and the parts diagram calls it a wipe.

 

[Northchar]

Is it a real seal? I have the same issue on my New Holland 4630 and the parts diagram calls it a wipe.

good question, I'll put it to my dealer. Makes sense...no grease/oil coming out, shouldn't be a seal then.

 

[Northchar]

Update from the dealer...you guys called it, they said it's not clear from the Kioti shop manual as it doesn't show a seal under the cap at the top of the assembly, but it's not a seal they figure. They said to monitor it, check the front axle oil frequently for level and color to make sure there's no moisture in the oil.

Thanks again for the help.