Leaking gear boxes on mower decks

[TJP440]

My departed GR2120 ( bought a new one) had developed the leaking gearbox seal on the mower deck. In looking at it I noted the breather valve had a 5 stamped on it. Removing the valve I noted that is was spring loaded and would require X amount of pressure to open (5lbs?). That coupled with the small vent holes that always get covered with clippings dirt etc. got me to thinking.
So, I replaced the vent with a backwards facing filter and a 90 degree elbow on it. Mowed 3+ Acres 4 or 5 times with no signs of leakage. Thought I would post it here and possibly help someone with a leaky box. The fitting is 1/8 NPT and the P-clamp was secured to top rear bolt on the gear box.
The filter was oriented with the direction of flow towards the rear and the elbow was added for a bit more protection.

 

[TJP440]

Wanted to up date this. The above mod worked well on level ground but would still puke a bit of fluid going down STEEP hills and possibly when mowing with the R side of the deck substantially lower (mowing a hill sideways). I have devised what I believe will resolve the issue permanently but need to test it a bit more to be sure. Will update

 

[D2Cat]

Wanted to up date this. The above mod worked well on level ground but would still puke a bit of fluid going down STEEP hills and possibly when mowing with the R side of the deck substantially lower (mowing a hill sideways). I have devised what I believe will resolve the issue permanently but need to test it a bit more to be sure. Will update

Why not put the original check valve in the hose where you have the filter? Wouldn't that allow less dirt in?

 

[whitetiger]

Wanted to up date this. The above mod worked well on level ground but would still puke a bit of fluid going down STEEP hills and possibly when mowing with the R side of the deck substantially lower (mowing a hill sideways). I have devised what I believe will resolve the issue permanently but need to test it a bit more to be sure. Will update

Why not replace the leaking gearbox seal, reinstall the original vent back into the gearbox, and be done with it?????