L2850 hydraulic fluid getting in crankcase.

[trock859]

I have an L2850 that is getting hydraulic fluid in the engine oil. I bought the seal that goes on the end of the pump, but after some research, I wonder if the cause is another issue. I read the probable cause is the pump or the bypass valve. The hydraulics seem to work fine.

I also have some other questions about working on the hydraulics.

Is there a way to test the system and find out the actual cause? Are there any precautions to take when taking the system apart or before operating it after putting it back together?

Unfortunately, I do not have a service manual.

I really appreciate any advice. Thanks.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

There is a 99.9% chance that the pump (I've seen a cracked case) or most likely the pump seal is how hydraulic fluid is getting into the crankcase.
The other .01% is someone is putting it in there just to mess with you!

In other words there is no other way possible, no other part of the system connects to it directly or indirectly.

Just because the seal is leaking doesn't mean the pump isn't working, you will still have excellent flow and pressure, it's just losing a little bit out to the crank case.

There really is no test besides pulling the pump and having it bench tested.

I always recommend you pull the pump, inspect it the best you can, install a new seal and see if your problem is corrected, if it is great if not pull the pump and have it sent to be rebuilt.

 

[trock859]

Thanks Wolfman. I can do that no problem.

Are there no special instructions for priming or anything after its back together?

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Nope nothing special, it's self priming.
Fill sump and fire it up.
You might have to cycle the three point and loader if equipped to get all the air out, but it does it very quickly.

 

[trock859]

Thanks again. You experts on these forums are lifesavers!

 

[Mopig]

Hi there,

Also have a l2850 with hyd oil in the engine.
Anyone got pics or basic info of whats required, asking as I dont have the machine with me currently but would like to get parts organised and prep for the operation ahead.

Thanks in advance

 

[Mopig]

@North Idaho Wolfman
Also, the FEL loader has been getting weaker and weaker and after a little while of operation its nothing as strong as it was.
Does that suggest the pump is knackered or is it more the oil bypassing the seal in the end once its hot ?

 

[Russell King]

Hi there,

Also have a l2850 with hyd oil in the engine.
Anyone got pics or basic info of whats required, asking as I dont have the machine with me currently but would like to get parts organised and prep for the operation ahead.

Thanks in advance

There are illustrated parts lists at this site

Kubota Tractor Corporation - Illustrated Parts List

- K-PAD - Parts Lists - Illustrated Parts Lists - diagrams

apps.kubotausa.com

There are several models and serial numbers that can change the required part numbers. There is also a pump for manual steering and another for power steering. This is an example of the manual steering pump illustrated parts list

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

It more than likely that the pump is worn out.
the seal is cheap but if the pump bearings are worn putting a new seal in it won't help you.

 

[Mopig]

Excellent. I'll order a new pump now.
May it arrive in a timely fashion. Long way from USA down here in New Zealand.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Excellent. I'll order a new pump now.
May it arrive in a timely fashion. Long way from USA down here in New Zealand.

Pull the old pump off the tractor and if the bearings are worn you'll feel it.
I would hate for you to buy a pump and that not be the issue.

 

[Mopig]

Thanks mate, will be a while before I can get to it. I've already not long done all the filters, and oils onthe complete machine, it has been getting worse with the FEL bleeding back when lifting, and its been slowly getting less and less hydraulic power on both FEL and the Rear linkage etc.

I'll just get the pump off amazon as you don't want to know the Kubota NZ price.
We are nearly finished with the machine so it's not worth me putting OEM pump on it to not enjoy the rest of its expense.
It's time she has a big birthday.

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Yea OEM pumps here are stupid expensive here in the US too!