L3450 - Radiator Screen - What the heck?

[bdranch]

I recently purchased a used L3450 GST. I'm in the process of getting some routine maintenance caught up and pulled the radiator screen. To my surprise, I found it installed in the fan shroud, BEHIND of the radiator core.

I looked at a parts breakdown from Messicks and it does indeed show the screen to be behind the radiator core.

In all the forums readings I could find, the descriptions of radiator screens suggests the screen is in FRONT of the radiator core - to help filter junk from clogging the radiator core fins.

Can anyone help explain how a screen behind the radiator is helpful? Does the fan blow forward?

BD Ranch

 

[North Idaho Wolfman]

Some cooling system designs do blow air threw the radiator instead of sucking it threw.
Look at the blades if they sweep towards the radiator then it blows if it sweeps towards the motor then it sucks.
Or better yet get it running and feel the air flow.

 

[freewheel3]

Yeah, a lot of Kubotas blow air forwards. It keeps the hot air away from the operator and cuts down on exhaust soot collecting under the hood. Its probably correct.

 

[kuboman]

I doubt yours is a back flow radiator. Haven't seen that for years but to be sure make sure which way the air flows. Otherwise it was installed wrong.

Well as usual I miss read your title. I was reading L3540 but you have a L3450.

 

[GWD]

Yep, the air flows toward the front.

I had a L3650 and this feature was actually a selling point at the time. Dust and hot air are forced away from the operator. Can't say I noticed much difference, however.

Just look at your fan blades and the way they rotate with the engine running. That should be the definitive answer.

 

[bdranch]

Mystery solved. The fan DOES blow air forward out the front of the tractor.