L3802 Hydraulic Level...Hard to View

[Alan_Retired]

I've searched the forums and could not find a definitive answer on how to easily read the dipstick. The problem is that the clear fluid cannot easily be seen.

I've seen two suggestions
1. Use a black industrial Sharpie to color the dipstick.
2. Lay the dipstick on a paper towel and watch to see where it absorbs.

I was wondering if anyone used KINGSCOTE Red Color Coding Dye. The Amazon remarks contain testimonials that it makes the dipstick easier to use. Can anyone see a downside?

As a related question, how much hydraulic fluid over top fill mark will cause an issue?

Thanks Everyone

 

[D2Cat]

John Deere has an additive that lets you see the fluid easier also.

 

[Runs With Scissors]

I was wondering if anyone used KINGSCOTE Red Color Coding Dye. The Amazon remarks contain testimonials that it makes the dipstick easier to use. Can anyone see a downside?

As a related question, how much hydraulic fluid over top fill mark will cause an issue?

Thanks Everyone

I have a similar problem, but it's the damn sight glass that I have trouble with.

I've been contemplating using a dye as well, so I'll keep an eye on this thread for any dye advice.

John Deere has an additive that lets you see the fluid easier also.

D2, Have you used it?

 

[ctfjr]

I've been using the Deere color additive for years. I has worked well for me. ie I can see the level in the sightglass

 

[Runs With Scissors]

Can anyone see a downside?



Thanks Everyone

I suppose warranty "might" be an issue if your still under factory warranty.

I've worked with/for some real "Buckaroos" in my day, so there lies some small possibility that if you needed warranty work done, some tech or manager thats bucking for Eagle Scout could deny a claim because you added a "none Kubota additive" which caused all your problems (and probably caused the Israeli - Palestinian conflict too).

 

[D2Cat]

I have a similar problem, but it the damn sight glass that I have trouble with.

I've been contemplating using a dye as well, so I'll keep an eye on this thread for any dye advice.




D2, Have you used it?

I have not used it. There have been threads on the subject in the past. I have seen the small bottles of it at the dealership when getting other parts. I've never heard any negatives about the product.

If concerned about warranty, call and ask at your dealership. I can't imagine a problem, but you never know. A lot of things change at the last minute, just ask HB.

 

[old and tired]

.....how much hydraulic fluid over top fill mark will cause an issue?

I run mine at 1 to 1.5 gallons over filled. There was a guy that filled his to the neck of the filler (way to much) and he drained 3 gallons to get into the sight glass mark.

He couldn't see that he was already past the mark and kept filling - he now uses the red Dye from John Deere. As do I, I used 1/2 the bottle and guess that I could have used 1/4 bottle and been fine.

Side note; I lost 3 gallons (cooler hose fell off) and was able to drive it no problem back to the house. I'm guessing there was still 4 gallons in the "tank". You don't want to run like that for long, oil doesn't get a chance to cool down.

My sight glass below.... (I don't use the shield over the transmission)

 

[Runs With Scissors]

I have not used it. There have been threads on the subject in the past. I have seen the small bottles of it at the dealership when getting other parts. I've never heard any negatives about the product.

If concerned about warranty, call and ask at your dealership. I can't imagine a problem, but you never know. A lot of things change at the last minute, just ask HB.

I just took your advice and called my dealer.

He said there would not be any problems with the warranty if something came up.

Gonna order some today.