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I was wondering if and what sort of maintanance a fluid drive needs.
For example refilling oil (if so what sort) when and how often?
I have driven my fluid drive for a while but have not done any maintanance yet.
Thanks for replying.
Alex, I don't think you need to do any regular maintainance on the fluid drive other than to check the fluid levels. Both the transmission and the fluid coupling use either 10 wt. non-detergent motor oil or you can also use hydraulic tractor fluid iso 32. Some say stick to 10 wt. and others say hydraulic fluid is better. Hydraulic tractor fluid is easier to find than 10 wt motor oil. I have had tractor fluid in my 52 for several years with no problems.
To check the fluid in the transmission, remove the fill plug on the right side of the transmission and if you feel fluid in the hole with your finger it is ok. There are three plugs that look alike on the right side. The fill plug is the middle plug.
To check the level in the fluid coupling there is an inspection cover on the floor board on the right side of the transmission hump. Rotate the coupling until the fill/drain plug is in the hole. Before you remove the plug, stuff a rag in the opening so you don't accidently drop the plug down into the bell housing. I have heard it is a real problem getting the plug out if you drop it. Remove the plug and fill it until fluid runs out of the hole. That unit is sealed so it shouldn't need filling. I have had my 52 for 15 years and have never put fluid in the coupling.
Everything Les said is spot on. I will add this if you have the M5 semi-auto. It has a filter screen located at the lower left bottom of the transmission case. It's behind an oval plate held on by two bolts. Remove the plate, pull the screen and clean it in solvent. You can make your own gasket when you put it all back.
Tim Mabry
The Lost Cause Garage
47 Suburban
57 Sportsman 4dr HT
How can I check if I have the M5 semi-auto?
If I remove the fill plug from the transmission (middle plug) oil comes running out. I presume this is OK?
To check the oil in the fluid coupling I will have to rotate the coupling. Only thing is how? Can anyone tell me how to get the fill/drain plug in sight?
To loosen this screw, do I have to turn it clock- or anticlockwise?
Thing is rather stuck and I dont want to break it.
Thanks
Alex
To re-move when you have the tool properly on
it ... move in the 3 O'clock to the 12 O'clock direction.
If space is an problem move in the 7 O'clock to the
4 O'clock direction.
Rodger & Gabby
COS
FltSgt@outlook.com
