TC Pump leak questions

[Tubby Creek Farm]

Hello All,

My TC reservoir keeps needing refilled and my engine oil never needs filling. so my pump o-ring needs replaced, correct? After reading several posts I realize it does

My questions are if the reservoir is low/empty will it hurt the pump to keep running the tractor even when not using the hydraulics in any way? I have lots of disking I need to do ASAP but before I have time to fix the pump. If it will hurt the pump is there anything I can do in the meantime? Like disconnect the pump?

Secondly to replace the seal/o-ring on my '49 cub does the pump come apart? From looking at posts and the "Book of Knowledge" it looks like it comes apart to replace said seal. If so this is more then I have the tools to do but a good mechanic friend that is excellent with old tractors that I have used can do it.

Any input would be helpful

[staninlowerAL]

I would be concerned about where is the TC oil level lost fluid is going. You did not mention in your post how often and how much you are are adding nor if there are any external leaks. As far as I know, the only place that the oil can go internal to the engine is into the oil sump yet you said it never needs adding oil. If the engine does not need adding oil, then I don't think the o-ring is the problem. Is it possible that the engine is using oil, either leaks or combustion? I would not feel comfortable to run the TC pump without adequate lubrication and as far as I know, the only way to disconnect it is to remove it and cover the hole with a plate. I'm sure others will weigh in with opinions.

[Don McCombs]

Yes, it will harm the hydraulic pump if the reservoir is low or empty. That is how the pump is lubricated. In addition it will likely harm your engine to run it with hydraulic fluid in the crankcase. Hydraulic fluid is a much lighter viscosity than engine oil. If you can't get to the pump repair right now, drain the hydraulic system and remove the pump. Cover the resulting hole with some type of thin material like Masonite, paneling or the like. Use the gasket as a template to cut it out. Then change the engine oil and filter.

[Tubby Creek Farm]

Yes, it will harm the hydraulic pump if the reservoir is low or empty. That is how the pump is lubricated. In addition it will likely harm your engine to run it with hydraulic fluid in the crankcase. Hydraulic fluid is a much lighter viscosity than engine oil. If you can't get to the pump repair right now, drain the hydraulic system and remove the pump. Cover the resulting hole with some type of thin material like Masonite, paneling or the like. Use the gasket as a template to cut it out. Then change the engine oil and filter.

My first post was meant to be a little humorous. I understand hydro is not only thinner but a cleanser/detergent and I will be changing it out pronto. Up until recently I have always needed to add a bit of oil to it every few hours of use. Realizing it is the hydro i understand the engine consequences.Thanks for the info on a cover plate.

[Mike in Louisiana]

here is the how to

http://farmallcub.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=44196

[The Riot]

If your hyd pump is leaking, there's a good likelyhood that the drive shaft on the pump is worn or scored. It's an o-ring that makes that seal and if your shaft is too far gone with wear just replacing the o-ring may not solve the problem. Examine the shaft in the sealing area, where the o-ring rides on it. If it's badly worn you may have to search for another pump.

The Riot

[Bill Hudson]

Tubby,

As for tools, a set of combination wrenches and a couple of sockets w/ratchet will be more than enough tools to complete the job. Rebuild hydraulic pump sounds intimidating, but it is simple. Do pay particular attention to the placement of the figure 8 'springie thingie.'

Bill

[Ken (48 Cub)]

TM has the cover you need - http://www.tmtractor.com/new/hy/735fp.htm

[Tubby Creek Farm]

I think I'm going to need a new pump. My Cub is a 1949 is there any changes in later models? Or is a Cub hydro pump similar through the years?

Thanks

[Don McCombs]

There were changes through the years, but they were essentially all internal. Any Cub pump should work. However, why do you think you need to replace the pump? Did you try, unsuccessfully, to rebuild your current one?

[Stanton]

It sounds like time is an issue. Therefore, drain the hydro unit and remove the pump. Install the plate as suggested and change your engine oil and filter. Do your disking. Your Cub will work fine with the pump removed and plate in place. You may want to put a little Permatex No. 2 sealer around the face of the plate to prevent engine oil from leaking out.

Afterward, when time is not a pressing issue, disassemble the pump and investigate condition as described in Mike's link of the How-To. When ready to work on the pump, be sure to have a jug of HyTran or your favorite hydraulic fluid on hand for reassembly and refill.

Let us know how it goes.